Managing Primary Dysmenorrhea Through Physical Activity: A Narrative Review

Primary dysmenorrhea significantly impacts the daily functioning and well-being of adolescent girls and women of reproductive age. Although pharmacological treatment remains the standard approach, growing research highlights the effectiveness of non-pharmacological methods, particularly physical activity. This narrative review explores the role of exercise in alleviating menstrual pain, with an emphasis on its physiological mechanisms and the comparative effectiveness of various exercise types. We analyzed recent studies and meta-analyses focusing on aerobic activity, strength training, and relaxation-based techniques. The most promising outcomes were observed in structured exercise programs that included progressive muscle relaxation, abdominal massage, and resistance training, all of which consistently led to reduced pain intensity. Regular engagement in moderate aerobic exercise and yoga was also associated with significant symptom improvement after 8 to 12 weeks. In contrast, less structured or low-intensity activities such as Kegel exercises showed limited benefit unless sustained over a longer duration. Overall, physical activity appears to be a valuable complementary strategy in managing primary dysmenorrhea. When personalized and performed regularly, exercise interventions can offer meaningful symptom relief and potentially reduce reliance on medication. Further research is needed to refine exercise guidelines for this population.