Aerobic exercise as a non-medicinal option in the management of primary dysmenorrhea: A critical review

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological problem among females and it is classified into primary and secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in women with normal ovulatory patterns and no apparent pelvic pathologies. Although, most women manage the pain of primary dysmenorrhea using NSAIDs and other pain-relieving techniques, treatment options for dysmenorrhea ranges from medicinal therapeutic options, non-medicinal therapeutic options, surgical options, and complementary/alternative medicines. However, this review focused on the exercise as a form of non-medicinal therapeutic option for dysmenorrhea. In recent times, studies have identified exercise as a very important method of managing primary dysmenorrhea. Although, little information is available on the effectiveness of this intervention. The purpose of this study was to review the available literature on the effectiveness of aerobic exercise on primary dysmenorrhea.