MENSTRUAL HEALTH AND MENTAL WELL-BEING: A BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL FRAMEWORK

Abstract

Menstrual health is becoming more widely acknowledged as a complex problem that affects social, psychological, and physical well-being. This study examines the relationships between menstruation experiences, mental health, and larger sociocultural contexts. It is based on Engel's biopsychosocial model. Hormonal changes, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and diseases like endometriosis are examples of biological factors that affect mood, stress reactions, and cognitive performance. Menstrual experiences are further shaped by psychological factors such as emotional anguish, stigma, and body image issues. Menstrual taboos, a lack of resources for hygiene, and a lack of education are examples of social and cultural circumstances that make problems worse, especially in low- and middle-income environments. When taken as a whole, these elements highlight how crucial it is to comprehend menstruation as a human rights and public health issue.

Inadequate management of menstruation health can lead to worry, despair, and a lower quality of life, according to evidence from recent international research. It also emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between menstruation health and mental health, whereby severe menstrual difficulties increase susceptibility to psychological diseases and poor psychological health exacerbates menstrual symptoms. Integrative treatments that integrate medical interventions with psychosocial support, education, and legislative reforms are necessary, as the biopsychosocial perspective makes clear.

 By situating menstruation within a biopsychosocial framework, this study contributes to reframing menstrual health as a critical determinant of overall well-being rather than a narrowly defined physiological process. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research, school- and community-based education, and multi-sectoral interventions to promote menstrual equity and improve mental health outcomes