Effect of different squatting exercises on menstrual aspects, pelvic mechanics and uterine circulation in primary dysmenorrhoea: a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

This was a randomised trial aimed to determine squatting exercises' effects on menstruation, pelvic mechanics, and uterine circulation in primary dysmenorrhoea. A total of 120 females with primary dysmenorrhoea were assigned into group (A), receiving yoga protocol, or groups (B, C & D), receiving yoga protocol added to modified wall squat, sumo squat, or deep squat, respectively. Menstrual pain and distress, pelvic inclination, and uterine circulation were measured before and after interventions using a pain scale, a questionnaire, palpation metre, and Doppler ultrasonography, respectively. There was a significant reduction in pain intensity in groups B & C (effect size = 3.97 & 5.89, respectively), compared to group A (effect size = 3.68), and in group C (effect size = 5.89) compared to group D (effect size = 3.94), pain subscale in the groups B, C & D (effect size = 1.69, 3.3 & 3.41, respectively), compared to group A (effect size= 2.47), water retention subscale in group D effect size 0.90 compared to group A (effect size =0.41) and in the questionnaire total scores in the groups C &D (effect size = 2.3 & 2.46, respectively) when compared to group A (effect size =1.94). Adding squatting exercises to yoga is more effective than yoga alone in reducing menstrual pain and distress.IMPACT STATEMENT<b>What is already known on this subject?</b> Physical exercises positively affect primary dysmenorrhoea in terms of decreased pain and distress, possibly through altering faulty posture. Squatting exercises affect lumbopelvic mechanics.<b>What do the results of this study add?</b> This study explores the effect of squatting exercises on pelvic inclination, menstrual aspects, and circulation.<b>What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research?</b> Squatting exercises can be utilised to affect pelvic mechanics leading to decreased menstrual pain and distress, because of decreased pelvic congestion.