Original Research Article
Year: 2020 | Month: October | Volume: 10 | Issue: 10 | Pages: 39-45
A Study on the Prevalence of Dysmenorrhea and Its Relationship with Physical Activity among Young Adults
Chua Hui Ning1, Rajkumar Krishnan Vasanthi2, Yughdtheswari Muniandy3
1Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy Program, Persiaran Perdana BBN, Putra Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
2Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy Program, Persiaran Perdana BBN, Putra Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
3Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Physiotherapy Program, Persiaran Perdana BBN, Putra Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.
Corresponding Author: Rajkumar Krishnan Vasanthi
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Dysmenorrhea, which also known as menstrual pain or cramp is, considers one of the most prevalent menstrual disorders among female reproductive period. During the recent years, regular exercise and physical activities have been introduced as effective methods for prevention and treatment of dysmenorrhea. Physical activity leads to the release of endorphins which may enhance the pain threshold and thus reduce pain. Level of physical activity varies across countries. This study looks into the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea among young adults to get a better understanding of the problem stated and to find out the relationship between physical activity and primary dysmenorrhea.
Materials & Methods: A cross sectional study design was adopted with total of 165 participants with the age range between 18 to 30 (22.8 + 30) was recruited using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Self-administered questionnaire on dysmenorrhea and menstrual characteristics were administered. Physical activity level was measured using global physical activity questionnaire (GPAQ).
Results: A total of 144 participants (87.3%) were discovered to have primary dysmenorrhea. There is moderate negative correlation exist between pain intensity and primary dysmenorrhea, r = - 0.42, p <0.035. This result suggests that maintaining a good physical activity is important in reducing dysmenorrhea symptoms.
Conclusion: Correction and prevention of primary dysmenorrhea is necessary in view of high incidence.
Key words: Painful menstruations; exercises; menstruation disturbance