[The role of psychological factors in the frequency and experience of menstrual symptoms: negative affect and somatosensory amplification].

INTRODUCTION

Menstruation-related symptoms affect a significant proportion of women of reproductive age. In addition to biological factors, psychological and social influences also play a role in the development and experience of these symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to examine the associations between menstrual symptoms, menstrual distress and various biopsychosocial factors, with particular focus on negative affect, somatosensory amplification, age, age at menarche, and the presence of gynecological or endocrinological conditions.

METHOD: Our online survey was conducted between January 2023 and March 2024 (n = 1149). Alongside demographic and reproductive variables, the participants completed the modified version of the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, and the Somatosensory Amplification Scale.

RESULTS

Women diagnosed with gynecological or endocrinological conditions reported significantly higher frequencies of menstrual symptoms, more severe menstrual distress, and elevated levels of somatosensory amplification and negative affect compared to the healthy control group. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that negative affect and somatosensory amplification were significant predictors of both symptom frequency and distress after controlling for age, age at menarche, and the presence of gynecological or endocrinological disorders.

DISCUSSION: Our findings confirm that menstrual symptoms and the associated psychological distress are closely linked to psychological functioning, particularly negative emotional states and heightened perception of bodily sensations.

CONCLUSION

Effective management of menstrual symptoms requires a multidisciplinary, biopsychosocial approach, in which gynecological care and psychological support should be integrated. Orv Hetil. 2026; 167(15): 585-594.