Psychological effect on physical activity, agility among athletic and non-athletic females with primary dysmenorrhea: An observational cross-sectional study

Primary dysmenorrhea is a prevalent gynaecological disorder characterised by unpleasant menstrual cramps in the absence of an underlying organic illness(1). It affects a substantial number of women globally, with prevalence rates ranging from 45% to 95% among menstrual women. The symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea may be severe, resulting to decreased quality of life, poor daily functioning, and psychological discomfort(2). While the physiological features of primary dysmenorrhea have been thoroughly investigated, the effect of physical exercise and agility on the psychological well-being of persons with this illness remains understudied(3). Dysmenorrhea, or unpleasant menstrual cramps, is a prevalent gynaecological disorder that affects a considerable proportion of menstruation women. Primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea are its two classifications(4). Primary dysmenorrhea refers to menstruation discomfort that occurs without any underlying organic pathology, while secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by a diagnosable medical illness, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids(5). Primary dysmenorrhea is characterised by the contraction of the uterine muscles, notably the myometrium, which is responsible for the ejection of the endometrium during menstruation. These contractions are mediated by prostaglandins, which are hormone-like molecules secreted by the uterine lining(6). Increased amounts of prostaglandins cause uterine muscular contractions that are excessive, resulting in discomfort and cramping. Several variables have been suggested in the aetiology of primary dysmenorrhea, while the precise reason remains unknown. Unbalanced levels of prostaglandin are one of the contributing reasons. Women with primary dysmenorrhea often have elevated levels of prostaglandins, notably prostaglandin F2, which is linked to more severe and protracted uterine contractions. A heightened sensitivity of the uterine muscle to prostaglandins may also contribute to the development of primary dysmenorrhea(7). This heightened sensitivity may result in increased menstrual contractions and more intense discomfort. Furthermore, lifestyle and behavioural variables might impact the severity of primary dysmenorrhea symptoms. Stress, lack of physical exercise, poor food habits, and smoking have been connected with greater pain and discomfort during menstruation(8). The physiological processes driving dysmenorrhea may be exacerbated by these conditions, resulting in more severe symptoms(9).