Effects of Exercise on Period Pain and Quality of Life

Overview of Period Pain

Period pain, commonly experienced by women of childbearing age, poses significant socioeconomic challenges. This discomfort is primarily linked to elevated prostaglandin levels, which lead to excessive contractions of the myometrium, resulting in decreased oxygen supply to the uterine muscles.

Study Details

A recent study published in the journal Contemporary Clinical Trials explored the impact of a treadmill exercise program on period pain and long-term quality of life. Conducted over a seven-month period, the research focused on women diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea, a specific type of period pain.

Methodology

Participants included women aged 18 to 43, who engaged in a supervised aerobic training program several times a week for four weeks, commencing the day after their menstrual period ended. This initial phase was followed by six months of unsupervised exercise at home.

Findings

The study demonstrated a 6% reduction in reported pain after four weeks of the exercise regimen. Notably, participants experienced a 22% decrease in pain when exercise continued for an additional six months compared to those who did not partake in the program. Furthermore, participants reported enhanced daily functioning and an improved quality of life over the seven-month duration.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that a consistent exercise routine may significantly alleviate period pain and contribute to better overall well-being.

Author Information

Written by Jade Marie Evans, MPharm, Medical Writer.

References

Kannan P, Chapple CM, Miller D, Claydon-Mueller L, Baxter GD. 2019. Effectiveness of a treadmill-based aerobic exercise intervention on pain, daily functioning, and quality of life in women with primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized controlled trial. Jun;81:80-86. doi: 10.1016/j.cct.2019.05.004. Epub 2019 May 7.
Eurekalert. 2019. Taking to the treadmill can ease period pain. [Online]. [11 July 2019]. Available from: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-07/aru-ttt070319.php