EFFECT OF EXERCISE IN PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA - AN EVIDENCE BASED STUDY

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea, prevalent in adolescent and young adult females, is marked by menstrual cramping without pelvic pathology. While NSAIDs are commonly used for relief, side effects and incomplete pain alleviation are frequent. Exercise is increasingly recognized as a beneficial non-pharmacological alternative, supported by evidence for its effectiveness in reducing pain and enhancing quality of life. Methodology: An evidence-based study involved a thorough literature search across electronic databases like PubMed, PEDro, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library. Studies in English meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected, focusing on randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses on therapeutic interventions. The data extracted included study design, interventions, outcome measures, and level of evidence, with methodological quality assessed using tools like the PEDro scale and evidence hierarchy. Results: This review of nine randomized controlled trials demonstrated that various exercise interventions, such as aerobic activity, Zumba, and yoga, significantly alleviate menstrual pain intensity, as measured by the VAS scale. Most interventions occurred three times a week over four to eight weeks, with VAS scores dropping by up to three points, especially for aerobic and dance-based exercises. Conclusion: The evidence strongly supports physiotherapy and conservative interventions as effective, safe, and non-pharmacological approaches for managing primary dysmenorrhea. Exercise-based programs, electro-physical agents, and self-care strategies significantly reduce menstrual pain and improve functional outcomes, supporting their integration into routine clinical practice. Keywords: Primary dysmenorrhea, exercise therapy, Menstrual distress syndrome.