Body Mass Index, Sleep Quality, Stress and Menstrual Cycle among Female University Students of Pakistan

<title>Abstract</title> <p>Introduction: Menstrual irregularity is a major health concern that damages a woman’s reproductive health and quality of life. The purpose of this research was to examine the association between Body Mass Index (BMI), sleep quality, perceived stress, and menstrual cycle among young women of Pakistan. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 286 participants were purposively sampled from multiple universities in Pakistan. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were used to measure sleep quality and stress among participants. BMI was calculated using the height and weight of the participants. Other demographic characteristics such as age, monthly household income, participant and parents’ education, birth order, marital status, age at menarche, family history of menstrual problems, length of menstrual cycle, and length of menstruation were also explored. To avoid the cultural inhibition and sensitivity associated with women’s reproductive health, ethical protocols were ensured, and data were gathered from the women without any formal diagnosis of menstrual disorders. Results While the majority of women participants had regular menstrual cycles, a substantial number exhibited irregular patterns. BMI, stress, and maternal education significantly predicted the length of the menstrual cycle, whereas sleep quality significantly predicted the length of menstruation. Age at menarche and monthly household income were significantly associated with both menstrual variables. Conclusion Therefore, these findings implore public health initiatives to create awareness among women about the detrimental effects of menstrual irregularity and associated risk factors. Further, highlighting the protective factors, such as a healthier lifestyle, for improving menstrual health.</p>