Effectiveness of pain neuroscience education in women with dysmenorrhea: controlled clinical trial
Abstract
Background: Dysmenorrhea is a highly prevalent gynecological condition that negatively affects menstrual pain experience, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Pain neuroscience education (PNE) is a non-pharmacological intervention designed to reshape maladaptive pain beliefs and promote a more adaptive understanding of pain mechanisms. This study aimed to examine the effects of PNE on pain beliefs, menstrual pain intensity, and the functional impact of dysmenorrhea among women reporting symptoms consistent with primary dysmenorrhea.
Methods: This prospective controlled clinical trial included 74 women aged ≥18 years who reported dysmenorrhea symptoms consistent with primary dysmenorrhea. Participants were allocated consecutively to either a PNE group (n = 37) or a control group (n = 37). The PNE group received three weekly online educational sessions, whereas the control group continued their routine activities without intervention. The primary outcomes were pain intensity assessed using the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) and pain-related beliefs assessed using the Pain Beliefs Questionnaire (PBQ). The secondary exploratory outcome was functional impact assessed using the Scale for Assessing the Impact of Dysmenorrhea on Daily Life (SAIDDL). All outcomes were collected using standardized self-reported online questionnaires before the intervention and during the first menstrual cycle following the intervention.
Results: Compared with the control…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 74 participants or records.
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