Description

For sample female adults ages 18 and older (or ages 18-59 in 1992), MENSTATREC reports the current status of the respondent's menstrual periods, including whether the respondent currently has periods and, if not, why.

MENSTATREC was first introduced in 1987. For related variables, please use the IPUMS NHIS search function or drop-down menus.

Comparability

Slight changes in the universe and survey wording may affect comparability over time. In 1987, this question was asked of sample female adults ages 18 and older. In 1992, it was asked of sample female adults ages 18-59 (see Universe Tab for more details). In 1992, respondents who no longer had, or had never had, menstrual periods were asked if this was "due to surgery, such as a hysterectomy". In 1987, they were asked if this was "due to surgery", but were not prompted about hysterectomies. As a result of these changes, researchers should use caution when making comparisons between years.

Changes in survey design (e.g., quarters in which the supplement was collected) may affect raw frequencies, but do not affect comparability of the variable. Data users are reminded to use the prescribed IHIS weights in their analyses.

Universe

Availability

• 1987, 1992

Weights

• 1987, 1992 : SAMPWEIGHT