Asmaa Ghareeb Mohamed^{1, 2,}, Reda Mhmoud Hables^{3, 2}

Menstruation is a uniquely female phenomenon and the most important part of the female reproductive cycle. But painful menstrual pain is a common gynecological complain among women. Many factors play a role and affect the menstrual cycle, which includes hormonal changes, psychological factors, genetic factors and body mass index (BMI). Aim: The current study aimed to assess the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and the severity of menstrual pain and to spotlight on the dietary habits of students and its association with the menstrual profile. Methods: Cross-sectional correctional study design was utilized. 177 agreed to participate in the study selected by stratified cluster sampling technique. A semi-structured self- administered questionnaire was used in data collection. Results: The findings revealed that less than one quarter 14.1 % & 17.5% of the study sample were in the extreme range either underweight or overweight, respectively. 79.1% of the study participants had reported pain during menses and 33.5 % of them describe this pain as severe pain. Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was found between BMI and menstrual profile. Conclusion: It can be concluded that BMI had an effect on the menstrual profile. Therefore, special attention should be given to adolescent's nutrition which leads to maintain the normal BMI and regulate the menstrual cycle. Recommendation: Lifestyle modification and nutritional counseling for female students could alleviate menstrual problems, promoting healthy eating habitats and maintaining an optimal BMI can improve menstrual health. Further research in the nutritional pattern in adolescents can be done especially during the menstrual cycle should be implemented.

menstrual profile, BMI, adolescent female