Use of Evidence-Based Research Approach in RCTs of Acupuncture-Related Therapies for Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Meta-Research

Comparative effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for primary dysmenorrhea: A protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis

“…2 12 The side effects of these drugs and the nature of the periodic recurrence of menstrual cramps indicate that women are more willing to seek non-pharmacological methods to manage PD. 13 Currently, a range of non-drug interventions are available for the treatment of PD, including acupuncture (e.g., manual acupuncture, electroacupuncture, auriculotherapy) 14 ; transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation 15 ; acupressure 16 ; aromatherapy 17 ; physical activities (e.g., aerobic exercise, resistance training, balance training, stretching) 18 ; physiotherapy (e.g., thermotherapy, electrotherapy, kinesio tape) 19 ; psychological intervention (e.g., biofeedback, relaxation, hypnotherapy, imagery) 20 ; nutritional and dietary supplements (e.g., vitamin, fennel, zinc, ginger) 21 ; and manual therapy (e.g., massage, tuina, manipulation techniques) 22 . Clinical practice guidelines have recommended some of these non-pharmacological interventions for pain relief in PD, 23 and systematic reviews based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have also confirmed that several non-drug therapies can effectively relieve menstrual pain and improve the quality of life (QoL) and emotional well-being in women with PD.…”