Patterns and determinants of non pharmacologic management of dysmenorrhea among female adolescents in high schools in a developing country

Background Menstruation is a natural process often complicated by dysmenorrhea, which affects most adolescent girls and contributes to absenteeism and reduced quality of life. In Ghana, management remains inadequate due to poor education, cultural stigma, and limited resources. Pharmacological solutions dominate, while non pharmacological interventions are underutilized. This study examined the non pharmacological management of dysmenorrhea and the factors influencing its use among female adolescents in selected high schools in Kumasi. Methodology A cross-sectional design was employed to assess the prevalence, intensity, and management of dysmenorrhea among female adolescents in selected schools in the Ashanti Region. A total of 431 respondents aged 12–19 years were recruited using proportional and simple random sampling. Data were collected with a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire covering demographics, pain intensity, non pharmacological practices, barriers, and facilitators. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Association between sociodemographic characteristics and dysmenorrhea was assessed using logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The mean age at menarche was 12.3 years. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 68.9%, with pain intensities most frequently reported between 5 and 7 on a 10-point numeric pain rating scale. About 33.6% reported missing school due to menstrual pain, emphasizing its impact on academic participation. Non pharmacological methods such as relaxation, dietary modification, and exercise were reported by 33.9% of respondents. Barriers to non pharmacological use included reliance on medication, time constraints, and limited access to resources. No significant associations were found between dysmenorrhea and sociodemographic variables. Menstrual cycle length showed no significant correlation with pain intensity (ρ = − 0.019, p = 0.751). Conclusion Overall, dysmenorrhea was high and negatively influenced daily and academic activities. Most did not use non pharmacological methods, mainly due to limited knowledge, resources, and cultural barriers. Since most depend on family and peers for support, there is a need for schools, healthcare providers, and communities to provide structured education and better management options.