Exploring the Interplay of Stress, Pain Efficacy and Socio-Economic Status in Menstruating Women

Izeen Fatima, Nimra Kirmani, Fatima Sameen

Abstract: This study examined the relationship between perceived stress, pain efficacy, and menstrual regularity among menstruating females in India, with attention to psychosocial and socioeconomic influences shaping menstrual health. Using a quantitative correlational design, data from 108 participants were analyzed through Pearson correlation, point-biserial correlation, and t-tests to explore associations among stress levels, confidence in pain management, menstrual regularity, and income groups. Results showed a significant negative relationship between perceived stress and pain efficacy, indicating reduced pain coping confidence at higher stress levels. Menstrual regularity showed a weak negative association with stress, while income-based differences revealed higher stress and greater menstrual irregularity among lower income participants. The findings also point to broader structural influences, including social restrictions, health inequalities, and access-related barriers, as factors shaping menstrual experiences. The study contributes to ongoing discussions linking menstrual well-being with mental health and socioeconomic conditions, while highlighting the need for integrated support strategies in education and public health settings. Despite limitations related to self-reported data and cross-sectional design, the study offers useful evidence for strengthening menstrual health awareness and psychosocial interventions among adolescent and adult females.

Keywords: Menstrual health, Perceived stress, Pain efficacy, Menstrual irregularity, Adolescent wellbeing

How to Cite?: Izeen Fatima, Nimra Kirmani, Fatima Sameen, "Exploring the Interplay of Stress, Pain Efficacy and Socio-Economic Status in Menstruating Women", Volume 15 Issue 4, April 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1736-1740, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=MR26428031751, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/MR26428031751

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