Effect of Arogya Raksha Panchatantra (five lifestyle principles) on heart rate variability, menstrual symptoms, health-related quality of life, performance and self-efficacy in Young female adults with primary dysmenorrhea: protocol for an explorator
Karishma Silwal, Prakash Babu Kodali, Vakeel Khan, Hemanshu Sharma, Gulab Rai Tewani, Pradeep M. K. NairAbstract
Objective:
Primary dysmenorrhea is a common condition among females and is associated with increased absenteeism, reduced performance and decreased quality of life. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness and feasibility of implementing
Materials and Methods:
This study was designed as an open-label, parallel-arm, randomized control trial, including 52 young female adults with PD between the ages of 16 and 25 years and a normal body mass index. Participants were randomly assigned to either the ARP group or the control group. The ARP group included daily practices such as eating twice, drinking at least 2 seers (8–10 glasses) of water, exercising for 1 h, fasting (≤500 kcal) once a week and praying twice a day for 2 months. The control group followed their usual lifestyle throughout the study period. The outcome measures were to assess the changes in heart rate variability (HRV), menstrual distress, quality of life, pain, self-efficacy, emotions, absenteeism and treatment adherence, which were captured at baseline, first, second and third menstrual cycles in both the groups. Baseline comparisons and assessment of effectiveness are performed using relevant
Discussion:
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first trial to explore the long-term effects and feasibility of ARP among young females with PD. The results of the study will encourage the use of ARP as a cost-effective and sustainable approach in managing PD.