This pilot clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) in reducing symptoms associated with primary dysmenorrhea in young women. Primary dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological condition characterized by intense pelvic pain during menstruation, often accompanied by fatigue, headache, and sleep disturbances. Despite its high prevalence, it is frequently underestimated, negatively impacting quality of life and daily activities.
The intervention consists of three monthly sessions of MLD performed during the late luteal phase, prior to menstruation. Outcome measures include pain intensity, abdominal circumference, pressure pain threshold, sleep quality, and health-related quality of life.
Female participants aged 18-25 years
Confirmed diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea
Regular menstrual cycles
Ability to provide informed consent
Secondary dysmenorrhea
Use of hormonal contraceptives
Presence of pelvic pathology (endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids)
Irritable bowel syndrome
Single group
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Other interventionThis method, part of complex decongestive physiotherapy, involves gentle massage techniques that stimulate lymphatic circulation and venous return. Participants will receive three sessions of MLD during the late luteal phase (5-7 days before menstruation) over three consecutive menstrual cycles. Each session will last approximately 30-45 minutes and will follow the Vodder method, including preparatory maneuvers (terminus, solar plexus, inguinal chains) and abdominal drainage sequence. Frequency: One session per cycle for three months.
VAS
Change in pain intensity measured by Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Visual Analog Scale (0-10 cm) to assess menstrual pain intensity. Scores are classified as mild dysmenorrhoea (1-3 points), moderate dysmenorrhoea (4-7 points) and severe dysmenorrhoea (8-10 points).
Pressure Pain Threshold (Algometry)
Measured bilaterally at L2 and S2 esclerotomes using a Fischer algometer (FPK-20). The tests will be carried out in the late luteal phase.
Abdominal Circumference (Circumferential Measurement)
Measured at supraumbilical and infraumbilical levels using a flexible tape.
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire.
The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used to assess sleep quality, which allows the impact of menstrual pain on rest to be determined.The total score ranges from 0 to 21, where values greater than 5 indicate poor quality and values equal to or less than 5 reflect adequate rest.
Health-Related Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L)
EuroQol questionnaire assessing mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression.This scale ranges from 0 to 100, with 0 being the worst possible health status and 100 being the best health status.
Age
Age (years)
Characteristics of dysmenorrhoea. Regularity
Regularity of the menstrual cycle
Characteristics of dysmenorrhoea. Menarche
Age at menarche
Characteristics of dysmenorrhoea. Duration.
Duration of menstruation.
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
This trial is not recruiting at the moment. You can still explore other options:
