Evaluating non-pharmacological interventions: the impact of chair aerobics vs. yogasana on primary dysmenorrhea and quality of life- an experimental study

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is a common gynecological condition among females of reproductive age and is often associated with significant physical discomfort, psychological distress, and reduced quality of life. Non-pharmacological interventions such as exercise-based therapies have gained importance due to their safety, accessibility, and holistic benefits. 42% of young females reported limitation in daily activities and 17% reported absenteeism. Despite its high prevalence many females do not seek medical advice and it is left untreated. Objective: The main purpose of this study is to find out- 1) To evaluate the effect of chair aerobics and yogasanas on pain in females with primary dysmenorrhea. 2) To evaluate the effect of chair aerobics and yogasanas on quality of life in females with primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: A total sample size – 80 females diagnosed with Primary Dysmenorrhea with 18-25 years of age were selected and divided into two intervention groups.Group A received non-impactchair aerobics exercises, while Group B performed selected yogasanas. Both interventions were administered for a specified duration over consecutive menstrual cycles. Quality of life was assessed using a validated questionnaire before and after the intervention period. Outcome Measures: The data was analyzed by NPRS for pain and WaLIDD Questionnaire for severity of dysmenorrhea. Quality of life and pain-related outcomes were assessed using validated outcome measures including the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Pre- and post-intervention scores were statistically analyzed. Results: The study shows significant reductions in pain (39.9%) and WaLIDD 42.4% in Group- A & 48.4% in Group- B) scores and improvement in quality of Life (72.1%) (SF-36) Scores.Clinically significant improvements in quality-of-life domains including physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality, and emotional well-being. Conclusion:The study provides compelling evidence that chair aerobics and yogasana are both effective non- pharmacological intervention for managing primary dysmenorrhea that improves quality of life.