Combined Effects of Kegel Exercises and 4-7-8 Breathing Technique in Primary Dysmenorrhea

Combined Effects of Kegel Exercises and 4-7-8 Breathing Technique on Pain Intensity, Symptom Severity and Functional Activity in Primary Dysmenorrhea

A randomized clinical trial will be conducted at Riphah International University QIE Campus in Lahore, using non-probability convenience sampling with 28 participants. Criteria include women aged 14-26, nulliparous, experiencing primary dysmenorrhea, with normal menstrual cycles and the ability to exercise independently. Group A will receive kegel exercises and 4-7-8 breathing techniques over 8 weeks, while Group B will only receive the breathing technique. Assessments will be done on menstrual cycle days, with follow-ups at weeks 4 and 8 using specific scales. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 27.

This study will be a randomized clinical trial. Riphah International University QIE Campus in Lahore will serve as the site of data collecting and intervention services. Non-probability convenience sampling will be the method of sampling. The study's sample size will be 28 participants. Inclusion criteria for this study will be: women between ages 14-26 years, nulliparous women, with a score greater than 4 in WALIDD primary dysmenorrhea intensity scales, history of normal menstrual cycles that lasts 3-7 days and ranged from 21- 35 days, ability to perform exercises independently. Group A will be given kegel exercises as well as 4-7-8 breathing techniques for a total of 8 weeks with 4 sessions per week. Whereas, group B will be given the 4-7-8 breathing technique only. Initial assessment will be taken on the 3rd day of menstrual period. Follow-up assessment will be taken after week 4 post interventions and final assessment will be done after week 8 post intervention. WaLIDD primary dysmenorrhea intensity scale, Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PESQ), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) will be the data collecting instruments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Nulliparous women
• Women with a score greater than 4 on WALIDD primary dysmenorrhea intensity scale
• Women having a history of normal menstrual cycles that lasts 3-7 days and range from 21- 35 days.
• Ability to perform exercises independently

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women with very mild primary dysmenorrhea
• Women treated for ovarian cysts or other gynecological issues
• Women currently taking medication for dysmenorrhea
• History of any systemic illness
• A history of psychological conditions that could influence the perception of pain and functional activity.