Effect of TENS on Pain and Symptoms in Primary Dysmenorrhea

The Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) on Pain and Menstrual Symptoms in Primary Dysmenorrhea

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common health problem experienced by women during their menstrual periods, significantly affecting their quality of life. It is often characterized by severe abdominal pain, cramp-like symptoms, nausea, headaches, and fatigue. These symptoms can impact social and functional activities, and in some cases, restrict participation in daily routines.

The treatment of primary dysmenorrhea aims to alleviate symptoms and help women experience a more comfortable menstrual period. Traditional treatments include pain relievers, hormonal therapies, and lifestyle changes. However, these methods may not always be sufficient, or some women may avoid them due to potential side effects.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) has gained popularity in recent years as a non-invasive method for pain management. TENS works by modulating nerve stimulation through low-frequency electrical currents applied to the skin, reducing pain perception. Its potential effectiveness in alleviating menstrual pain has drawn increasing attention as an alternative treatment option.

This study aims to evaluate the effects of TENS on pain and menstrual symptoms in women with primary dysmenorrhea. The research will assess the potential of TENS to reduce menstrual pain and compare its effectiveness with other treatment options. If TENS proves to be effective in managing dysmenorrhea symptoms, it could enhance women's quality of life and provide a valuable non-pharmacological treatment alternative.

The findings of this study could contribute to understanding the role of TENS in alleviating dysmenorrhea symptoms and developing effective treatment strategies to improve women's quality of life during their menstrual periods.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 18 and above
• Have regular menstrual cycles (lasting 3 to 8 days, with a menstrual cycle range of 21 to 35 days)
• Have dysmenorrhea pain severity rated 4 or higher on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS)

Exclusion criteria

Women with the following conditions were excluded from the study:

• Secondary dysmenorrhea
• Using oral contraceptives
• Having impaired tissue integrity in the abdominal area
• Having previous experience with TENS
• Having a history of nerve damage or sensory loss
• Having a pacemaker
• Having any systemic diseases
• Being pregnant or in the postpartum period