Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Severity and Associated Factors Among Female College Students in Nekemte Town: An Institution‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study

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ABSTRACT Background Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome characterized by marked affective, behavioral, and physical symptoms that occur during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and substantially impair daily functioning. Despite its considerable impact on the health and well‐being of women of reproductive age, evidence on the prevalence of probable PMDD and its associated factors among female college students in Ethiopia remains limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of screening‐positive probable PMDD and identify factors associated with it among female college students in Nekemte tow. Methods An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 375 randomly selected female college students, with 368 participating (response rate: 98.13%). Participants were selected using a stratified random sampling technique from twelve colleges categorized by field of study. Symptoms of probable PMDD were assessed using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool for Adolescents (PSST‐A), a standardized screening instrument based on DSM criteria. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with screening‐positive probable PMDD. Variables with a p ‐value < 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were included in the multivariable model, and statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05. Results Overall, 17.4% (95% CI: 13.6–21.5) of participants screened positive for probable PMDD. Students who reported cohabiting with a boyfriend had higher odds of screening positive for probable PMDD than those living with their families (AOR = 5.80, 95% CI: 1.31–25.77). Similarly, severe dysmenorrhea (AOR = 5.88, 95% CI: 2.72–9.46) and a menstrual cycle length of ≥ 28 days (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.01–6.26) were associated with higher odds of screening‐positive probable PMDD. In contrast, living with relatives (AOR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.02–0.60) and reporting moderate menstrual bleeding (AOR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.10–0.92) were associated with lower odds of screening‐positive probable PMDD. Conclusion Approximately one in six female college students screened positive for probable PMDD using the PSST‐A screening instrument Cohabiting with a boyfriend, severe dysmenorrhea, and longer menstrual cycle length were associated with higher odds of screening‐positive probable PMDD, whereas living with relatives and moderate menstrual bleeding were associated with lower odds These findings highlight the need for routine screening, increased awareness of PMDD symptoms, and accessible campus‐based reproductive and mental health support services for female college students.