Document Type : Original Article
Researcher
Allame tabatabaie
Ministerial Ethics Committee
Introduction:Primary dysmenorrhea is a common menstrual pain that occurs without any underlying medical condition, mostly affecting adolescents and young women. It is typically caused by elevated levels of prostaglandins, which lead to uterine contractions and reduced blood flow. Physical activity and supplements like curcumin, due to their anti-inflammatory properties, can effectively reduce pain and improve symptoms.
Primary dysmenorrhea is associated with elevated levels of PGF2α and IL-6, which lead to intense uterine contractions and inflammation. PGF2α plays a key role in increasing cramp severity, while IL-6 enhances uterine sensitivity to contractions, intensifying pain. Pilates exercises help reduce inflammation and improve hormonal balance, while high-intensity training triggers immune adaptations that lower IL-6 levels over time. Interestingly, IL-6 released post-exercise can also act as an anti-inflammatory myokine. These findings suggest that physical activity, particularly Pilates and high-intensity workouts, can be effective non-pharmacological strategies to reduce menstrual pain and improve the overall inflammatory profile in women with primary dysmenorrhea.
Significance of the Study:Primary dysmenorrhea imposes a significant health, social, and economic burden, often leading to absenteeism from school or work and a reduced quality of life for many women. Scientific approaches to managing its symptoms are essential. Physical activity, especially Pilates, has shown promising results in reducing menstrual pain and improving physical function. Curcumin supplements, due to their anti-inflammatory properties and high safety profile, also offer therapeutic potential. Although limited, existing research suggests that combining Pilates exercises with curcumin supplementation may enhance the effectiveness of treatment. This study aims to explore this combined approach as a non-invasive, natural strategy to improve the well-being of women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea.
Methods:
The present study is a semi-experimental and applied research conducted with two groups: a training + supplement group and a placebo + training group, using a pre-test and post-test design.The target population consists of women from Gorgan, aged between 20 and 40 years, with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 18.5 to 24.9. These individuals suffer from primary dysmenorrhea and will voluntarily participate in the study. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: the curcumin supplement + training group, and the placebo + training group.