THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BODY MASS INDEX AND DEGREE OF DYSMENORRHEA AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS AT SMAN 8 GOWA IN 2025

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain commonly experienced by adolescent girls and may interfere with learning activities, concentration, and quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and the degree of dysmenorrhea among adolescent girls at SMAN 8 Gowa.
Methods: This observational analytic study used a cross-sectional design and was conducted from October to November 2025. A total of 301 female students aged 15-19 years were selected by purposive sampling from 647 students after meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. BMI was calculated from measured weight and height, while dysmenorrhea severity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test with SPSS version 29. 
Results: Most respondents were underweight (44.9%). The most common degree of dysmenorrhea was moderate (41.5%), followed by severe (36.9%) and mild (21.6%). Severe dysmenorrhea was most frequent among underweight respondents (45.2%). The Chi-square test showed a significant association between BMI and dysmenorrhea severity (p=0.021). 
Conclusion: Body mass index was significantly associated with the degree of dysmenorrhea among adolescent girls at SMAN 8 Gowa; underweight adolescents tended to experience more severe dysmenorrhea.