A recent study led by Zahra Rakhshaee has highlighted the potential benefits of yoga for women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea, a prevalent issue affecting approximately 50% of female adolescents and many women of reproductive age. The clinical trial investigated the efficacy of three specific yoga poses—Cobra, Cat, and Fish—in alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
The trial included 92 female students aged 18-22, who were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (50 participants) or a control group (42 participants). Pain intensity and duration were measured using the Visual Analog Scale for Pain, with assessments conducted over three menstrual cycles.
During the first cycle, participants completed a questionnaire about their menstrual pain without any intervention. In the subsequent cycles, the experimental group practiced the designated yoga poses during the luteal phase, while continuing to document their menstrual pain. The control group, on the other hand, did not receive any intervention and only filled out the questionnaires.
The findings were compelling. The experimental group experienced a significant reduction in both the intensity and duration of pain in comparison to their pre-intervention state (P < 0.05). Moreover, when compared to the control group, those practicing yoga showed marked improvements (P < 0.05).
The study concludes that yoga poses such as Cobra, Cat, and Fish can effectively reduce the severity and duration of primary dysmenorrhea. This suggests that yoga is a safe and accessible treatment option for those experiencing menstrual pain. The results offer a promising non-pharmacological alternative for women seeking relief from dysmenorrhea, encouraging further exploration into the role of yoga in menstrual health management.
Reference: Rakhshaee, Z. (2011). Effect of three yoga poses (cobra, cat and fish poses) in women with primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 24(4), 192-196.