Association between Premenstrual Syndrome and Depression among Female Undergraduates in a Private Nigerian University

Background: Depression among female undergraduates is associated with hormonal changes and other stressful events around the menstrual cycle. Aim: This study assessed the relationship between premenstrual syndrome and depression among female undergraduates in a private Nigerian university. Methods: The study was conducted at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti. A stratified sampling technique was used in this study. A semi-structured questionnaire with sections on socio-demographic schedule proforma and the Becks Depression Inventory were used to collect information from respondents. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 21). Results: A total number of 440 students were recruited. Three hundred and sixty-two (82.3%) of the respondents had depression, with prominent mild mood disturbance (43.9%). The odds of depression were higher among respondents older than 20 years as compared with those who were 20 years old or younger (AOR=91.194 CI;9.326,891.774). Also, the odds of depression were higher among respondents who did have not close relationships with their mother compared to those who did (AOR= 10.5, CI; 3.525, 31.33). Besides, the odds of depression were higher among those with premenstrual syndrome than respondents without a history of premenstrual syndrome (AOR=70.06 CI; 12.018, 48.406). Finally, the odds of depression were higher among respondents with a family history of premenstrual (AOR=0.637 CI; 0.257, 1.574). Conclusion: There is a need to provide services aimed at preventing and managing premenstrual syndrome among undergraduates and screen for depression to prevent and detect mental health problems in this vulnerable population.