NCT07263516

Pelvic Floor and Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises for Primary Dysmenorrhea

Effects of Combined Pelvic Floor and Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises on Primary Dysmenorrhea

• Status: Enrolling By Invitation
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 40 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Istanbul Gelisim University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 18 Years – 25 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study investigates whether combining pelvic floor muscle exercises with diaphragmatic breathing exercises can reduce menstrual pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Forty participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: one performing both exercises, and the other performing only diaphragmatic breathing. The study will measure pain, menstrual symptoms, quality of life, and psychological well-being before and after the intervention.

Detailed description

This interventional study aims to investigate the combined effects of pelvic floor muscle exercises and diaphragmatic breathing exercises on primary dysmenorrhea in women. The study is designed based on a biopsychosocial model to explore both physical and psychological outcomes of the intervention. A total of 40 participants will be recruited and randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention group will perform a program combining pelvic floor and diaphragmatic breathing exercises, while the control group will perform only diaphragmatic breathing exercises. The exercise program will be conducted over a specified period, with sessions scheduled regularly according to the study protocol. Assessments will be conducted twice: prior to and after the menstrual period. Pain intensity will be evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and pain threshold will be measured with a pressure algometer. Menstrual and premenstrual symptoms, quality of life, sleep quality, and psychological status, including depression, anxiety, and stress levels, will be assessed using validated scales such as the PMS Scale, SF-36, DASS-21, and PUKI. This study is expected to provide scientific evidence for physiotherapy interventions in women's health and offer an alternative non-pharmacological approach for managing primary dysmenorrhea. By addressing both physical and psychological aspects, the exercise program may reduce pain, improve quality of life, and enhance overall well-being in participants.

Conditions

• Primary Dysmenorrhea (PD)

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Pelvic Floor + Breathing Exercises	Participants will perform both pelvic floor and diaphragmatic breathing exercises according to the study protocol. Assessments will focus on pain, quality of life, and psychological measures.
BEHAVIORAL	Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises	Participants will perform only diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Assessments will be conducted in the same manner.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-02-18
• Primary completion: 2026-05-31
• Completion: 2026-06-01
• First posted: 2025-12-04
• Last updated: 2026-03-17

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)