Effect of Yoga on Primary Dysmenorrhea and Stress in Medical Students

Abstract

Objective: Few studies have been done on yoga as therapy for stress and primary dysmenorrhoea. This study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy of yoga as alternative therapy for primary dysmenorrhoea and stress. Methods:113 medical students, unmarried girls, with primary dysmenorrhoea and stress, were randomly assigned to study (n = 60) and control group (n = 53). Semi structured questionnaire, the Numerical rating scale for pain and the Perceived Stress Scale were administered at baseline and after three months. The study group was subjected to yoga intervention. Results: Significant (p<0.0001) reduction in the perceived pain after yoga intervention in study group. 88% of the study group reported complete pain relief and 12% reported mild pain. Compared to control group, students with yoga intervention demonstrated significant improvement in perceived stress (P<0.0001). 82% of the study group reported complete stress relief. After yoga intervention, absenteeism dropped to 10% and improvement in daily activity was observed in study group. Conclusion: With yogic exercises the stress and pain of dysmenorrhoea was controlled indicating the benefits of yoga in primary dysmenorrhoea. Yoga lessens psychosocial stress levels, so it should be implemented among college students to augment their menstrual well-being.