The Role of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Menstrual Pain Relief

The Role of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Menstrual Pain Relief: A Randomized Control Trial

The present study aims to verify the analgesic potential of a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device using patients with primary dysmenorrhea and compare it with a control period without usage.

Inclusion Criteria:

• History of lower abdominal pain (dysmenorrhea) for more than 6 consecutive menstrual cycles with a moderate or severe pain rating ≥5 out of 10 over course of last year
• BMI of 18.5-29.9 as a BMI below or above these cut points results in highly varied menstrual cycle lengths
• Not taking contraception or other types of medication that could influence reproductive status
• Regular menstruation
• Medically free from chronic diseases
• Free from known gynecological problems (ie. Endometriosis, Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts)
• History of analgesic pill intake during menstruation
• No pelvic pathology

Exclusion Criteria:

• Amenorrhea
• On a form of contraception
• Secondary dysmenorrhea and/or other gynecological problems that may cause pain
• No discomfort, pain, or other symptoms during menstruation
• History of surgery over lower abdomen area
• Allergy to ibuprofen
• Cardiac disability
• Pacemaker
• Arterial disease
• Uncontrolled hemorrhage
• Blood clots
• Pregnancy or trying to become pregnant
• Cancerous lesions
• Exposed metal implants
• History of seizures
• Sensory or mental impairment
• Unstable fractures