Physiotherapy Interventions as an Adjunct Approach in Patients with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Primary Dysmenorrhea (PD) is a major contributor in teenage and young female absenteeism following menstrual cramps and abdomen pain before and during their menstrual cycle. Prostaglandin secretion causes uterine muscles and blood arteries to contract. The discomfort is usually modest, but in some cases, it is so terrible that it prevents them from going to work for many days in a month without any social, psychological and physical activity. The purpose of this review was to assess impact of physiotherapy on psychological, social and physical wellbeing in patients with PD. Physiotherapy intervention without surgical management can improve psychological, physical and social wellbeing of PD patients. All articles incorporated in the review were reported to reduce the pain intensity and the frequency in PD. A healthier and more appropriate eating style, as well as more frequent physical activity can help school and college going females to avoid dysmenorrhea. Educational activities can help in raising awareness among young women about the importance of a healthy diet and physical activity. The present review concluded that physiotherapy treatment strategies are effective treatments for reducing pain and psychological effects on PD females. Conservative management by physiotherapy reduces intensity and frequency of pain, anxiety, depression, stress, poor sleep quality and improved quality of life in PD.