Assessment of quality of life and effect of non-pharmacological management in dysmenorrhea

BACKGROUND: Dysmenorrhea refers to a cyclical lower abdomen or pelvic discomfort that commonly radiates to the back or thighs. It has a significant influence on women's quality of life (QOL), social duties, and career roles. As pain relief without or with minimal use of medication is a primary health care target, usage of non-pharmacological measures is the most prominent way of managing dysmenorrhea. In this study, we explored the quality of life and the importance of non-pharmacological treatment of dysmenorrhea. MATERIALS & METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional, and interventional study was conducted on general residents of India for six months. Women who gave consent to participate in the study and were suffering from primary dysmenorrhea were included in the study. All relevant and necessary information was collected using online questionnaire forms and interviews with the subjects. RESULTS: Out of a total of 517 individuals, 348 completed the study, with 51.1% having an average QOL, 33.3% having a bad QOL, and 14.9% having a good QOL. After the intervention, individuals' attitudes toward the role of non-pharmacological care in dysmenorrhea shifted significantly, with 96% of subjects believing that the actions taken were beneficial, compared to just 77% previously. CONCLUSION: The current study suggests that the negative effect on health-related problems can be managed by following non-pharmacological measures regularly. Further research is needed to uncover new alternatives and offer a wider choice of treatments.