Dysmenorrhea and perceived stress in the adolescent girls: Potential role of relaxation techniques

Abstract

The most common gynecologic issue affecting women, particularly teenage girls, is dysmenorrhea, which is characterized by painful menstruation. Dysmenorrhea can cause varying degrees of pain and discomfort, from minor inconvenience to serious restrictions on daily activities. Additionally, a lower quality of life is connected to it. It is estimated that 15% of female adolescents have significant discomfort, which has a negative effect on their quality of life. The adolescent girls spoke of various symptoms, such as sleep issues, low quality of life, anxiety, losing their appetite, migraines, and affects on general health status, in addition to painful menstruation. Numerous complementary therapies, such as oil massage, pelvic floor exercises, and relaxation methods, may help to alleviate the discomfort. Essential oils, which are aromatics made from extracted plants, are used in aromatherapy to enhance one's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It appears that research has shown that exercising can reduce menstrual cramps. Pelvic floor exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles by tightening and relaxing them. These exercises are crucial to pelvic floor muscle recovery. Relaxation methods enhance daily life, strengthen the immune system, and lessen depression. Additionally, they are effective in reducing tension and anxiety. Therefore, it is thought that they contribute to people's psychological well-being. Relaxation therapy is one non-pharmacological therapeutic option that may minimize menstrual discomfort. This review study led us to conclude that regular use of the Jacobson relaxation technique, pelvic floor exercises, and oil massage may help to reduce the pain caused by dysmenorrhea.