Clinical Research Directory

THE EFFECT OF GUİDED IMAGERY ON PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME

EFFECT OF GUIDED IMAGERY ON PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a condition characterized by physical, behavioral, and emotional symptoms that appear at the end of the luteal phase, 7-10 days before menstruation, and resolve with the onset of menstruation. Symptoms include irritability, loss of control, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, decreased concentration, unexplained crying, fatigue, weakness, changes in appetite, edema, headaches, joint and muscle pain, breast tenderness, altered sexual activity, and social withdrawal. In young women, PMS can negatively affect self-confidence, social relationships, quality of life, and academic performance. PMS treatment aims to relieve both physical and psychological symptoms and may include dietary supplements and complementary-alternative therapies. Approaches such as reflexology, pilates, acupressure, music, exercise, and guided imagery have shown promising results in reducing premenstrual symptoms. Mind-body-based approaches in complementary therapies are known to support psychological well-being. Guided imagery, a form of mind-body communication, involves the flow of thoughts and the way the mind encodes, stores, and expresses sensory information. It is based on the understanding that the mind and body are interconnected and that mental processes can influence physical responses. Guided imagery has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, enhance sleep quality, strengthen the immune system, reduce fatigue, and minimize nausea and vomiting. Although effective, research on the use of guided imagery to reduce PMS symptoms in university students is limited. This study aims to investigate the effect of guided imagery on premenstrual syndrome in this population.

Menstrual Cycle Symptoms and Female Health

The complexity inherent to the hormonal fluctuations associated with the female menstrual cycle (MC) has contributed, from a methodological perspective in research, to the neglect of women's physiological characteristics and to the silencing and normalization of symptoms linked to different life stages and hormonal environments. The scarce and outdated available data suggest high percentages of women experiencing perimenstrual symptoms, such as premenstrual syndrome or menstrual pain, as well as intermenstrual discomfort. These symptoms not only significantly impair daily activities but, due to their normalization, often lead to the underdiagnosis of other gynecological conditions. Subclinical ovulatory disturbances-characterized by the suppression of ovarian hormones as an adaptive defense mechanism against various environmental stressors-are also frequently underdiagnosed. These disturbances typically do not affect MC length, making them difficult to detect, and although the process is reversible, it may initiate irreversible consequences for certain tissues, such as bone mass loss. However, neither women nor their educational, occupational, or healthcare environments appear to have the resources and/or knowledge required to adequately address these issues. All of this may compromise women's rights to adequate sexual and reproductive health and to a dignified quality of life, as recognized under the second line of Axis 4, "Effective Rights for All Women," of the Strategic Plan for Effective Equality between Women and Men 2022-2025. Therefore, the aims of this multicenter project-carried out by a multidisciplinary research team from seven Spanish universities and three international institutions-are to describe the prevalence of symptoms and alterations related to the MC in women of reproductive age and to identify their associations with physical and mental health. To accomplish this, an observational study will be conducted in a large sample of women of reproductive age, including multiple symptom and perceived-health questionnaires and ovulation monitoring. In addition, in a subsample of participants, bone mineral density will be assessed, blood levels of sex hormones will be monitored, and an innovative analysis of health biomarkers (glycemic and lipid profile, and inflammation) from menstrual blood will be included. This will be complemented by a qualitative study of experiences related to MC-associated symptoms and alterations, using in-depth interviews and thematic content analysis. The findings of this project are expected to support various dissemination and educational actions, justify the design of more inclusive educational and healthcare policies, and enhance the understanding of women's needs, ultimately contributing to improved symptom management and quality of life.

Self-Compassion and Quality of Life in Nursing Students With Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is one of the most common menstrual disorders among women of reproductive age and is characterized by recurrent physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. These symptoms may adversely affect academic performance, daily functioning, interpersonal relationships, and quality of life. Although previous studies have demonstrated that greater premenstrual symptom severity is associated with poorer quality of life, the psychological mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unclear. Self-compassion, defined as a compassionate and nonjudgmental attitude toward oneself during times of difficulty, has been identified as a protective psychological factor associated with better emotional well-being and adaptive coping. However, its mediating role in the relationship between premenstrual symptom severity and premenstrual syndrome-specific quality of life has not been adequately investigated. This cross-sectional study aims to examine the association between premenstrual symptom severity and premenstrual syndrome-specific quality of life and to investigate the mediating role of self-compassion among nursing students who meet the study criteria for PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome Scale score ≥110).

Health Belief Model-Based Podcast Education for Premenstrual Symptoms in University Students

Premenstrual syndrome is a common women's health condition characterized by physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms that may negatively affect daily life, academic functioning, and quality of life among young women. This study evaluated the effect of a Health Belief Model-based podcast education program on premenstrual symptom severity and PMS-specific quality of life among young female university students living in Istanbul, Türkiye. This single-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study enrolled 120 participants. The intervention consisted of an eight-episode podcast education program delivered over four weeks, with two episodes per week. Premenstrual symptom severity and PMS-specific quality of life were assessed before and after the education program using validated scales.

Effects of Somatic Movement Therapy vs Core Strengthening in Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a multifactorial disorder affecting women of reproductive age, causing physical discomfort, emotional instability, and reduced quality of life. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of Somatic Movement Therapy (SMT) and Core Strengthening Exercises (CSE) on symptom severity, perceived stress, and quality of life in 34 female participants aged 18-35 years diagnosed with PMS according to ACOG criteria. Group A will receive SMT, while Group B will perform CSE over a 6-week program. Outcomes will be measured using PSST, PSS-10, and WHOQOL-BREF, with data analyzed through SPSS version 27.

Auricular Acupressure for Premenstrual Syndrome in Female Students

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common gynecological disorder that significantly affects the quality of life for women of reproductive age, with symptoms including emotional, behavioral, and physical disturbances occurring approximately one week before menstruation. PMS is especially prevalent among female undergraduate students, who often experience heightened stress due to academic pressures and lack emotional coping strategies. While pharmacological treatments, such as SSRIs and hormonal therapies, have been used to manage PMS symptoms, they may have side effects and are not always effective in the long term. This has led to increasing interest in alternative treatments such as traditional medicine. Auricular acupressure, a non-invasive and low-risk method, has shown promising results in managing PMS symptoms and is gaining attention as a possible solution. The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of auricular acupressure in reducing PMS symptoms in female undergraduate students. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does auricular acupressure reduce the severity of PMS symptoms in female undergraduate students? * Is auricular acupressure safe and well-tolerated by participants? Researchers will compare the intervention group (receiving auricular acupressure) to the control group (receiving sham auricular acupressure) to see if auricular acupressure has a significant impact on reducing PMS symptoms and improving quality of life. Participants will: * Receive auricular acupressure on specific acupoints or sham treatment. * Complete assessments of PMS symptoms using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) at baseline, 1 week, and 8 weeks. * Complete a quality of life assessment using the WHOQOL-Bref scale at the same time points. * Be monitored for any adverse effects during the 8-week trial period.

Identification and Validation of Epigenetic Biomarkers of PMDD

This research is being done to examine epigenetic markers and mood changes across the menstrual cycle, particularly in premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The investigators previously identified epigenetic biomarkers of postpartum depression, another reproductive affective disorder, and in this study aim to determine if these biomarkers also distinguish PMDD cases from healthy controls at different points in the menstrual cycle. By collecting biological samples (such as blood) and monitoring mood changes across the menstrual cycle, the investigators will be able to determine whether these epigenetic markers are associated with PMDD. The investigators plan to study these epigenetic markers during the follicular phase (roughly the first half of the menstrual cycle, from menses until ovulation) and the luteal phase (roughly the second half of the menstrual cycle, from ovulation to menses). The investigators will study this in two groups: 1) individuals who do NOT have premenstrual mood symptoms, and 2) individuals with premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMS/PMDD). The results will provide a comprehensive view of the changes in these systems across the menstrual cycle. This will add to the investigators understanding of the mechanisms that may cause PMS/PMDD.

Efficacy and Safety of Shatavari Root Extract for Premenstrual Syndrome in Women

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects women of reproductive age and is associated with emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, stress, sleep problems, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms typically occur during the days leading up to menstruation and may interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. This study is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) root extract compared with placebo in women with mild to moderate PMS. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Shatavari root extract (300 mg) or an identical placebo capsule once daily for 12 weeks. The study will assess changes in PMS symptoms, stress levels, sleep quality, and quality of life using validated questionnaires, along with measurements of salivary cortisol. Safety will be evaluated through clinical laboratory tests and monitoring of adverse events throughout the study.

Self-Acupressure for Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms

This randomized, sham-controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of self-administered acupressure on menstrual pain severity and premenstrual symptoms in women aged 18-30 years with primary dysmenorrhea. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a self-acupressure intervention group or a sham self-acupressure control group. The intervention will be applied during the premenstrual and menstrual periods over approximately six months. The primary outcome is the change in menstrual pain severity, and secondary outcomes include changes in premenstrual symptom severity, analgesic use, and menstruation-related activity limitation.

Cohort Study of Honghua Xiaoyao Tablets in the Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome Based on Target Trial Emulation Framework

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Honghua Xiaoyao tablets in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, and the results were further analyzed and evaluated by target trial simulation (TTE) framework.

The Effect of Sensory Awareness Education on Female Students' Body Awareness and Premenstrual Symptom Levels

This research investigates the effects of web-based sensory awareness training on female students' body movements. In order to examine its effect on awareness and premenstrual symptom levels. planned. H0a = Body awareness levels of female students who receive and do not receive sensory awareness training. There is no difference between. H1a = Body awareness levels of female students who receive and do not receive sensory awareness training. There is a difference between . H0b = Premenstrual symptoms of female students who received and did not receive sensory awareness training. There is no difference between the levels. H1b = Premenstrual symptoms of female students who receive and do not receive sensory awareness training. There is a difference between the levels. Participants will be given sensory awareness training for 4 weeks and female students will be given "Premenstrual Syndrome Scale" and "Very" before the training and 4 weeks after the first training.Dimensional Body Awareness Assessment-II Scale" will be applied

Moderate Aerobic Exercise for Managing Menstrual Cycle Symptoms

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the impact of moderate aerobic exercise on menstrual symptom management in sedentary women both using and not using hormonal contraceptives. The main questions it aims to answer are: Is there a reduction in physical and/or psychological menstrual cycle related symptom burden with participation in moderate aerobic exercise for sedentary women using and not using hormonal contraceptives? Is there a difference in physical and/or psychological menstrual cycle related symptom burden between hormonal contraceptive and non-hormonal contraceptive users? Is a moderate aerobic exercise intervention more effective in reducing physical and/or psychological menstrual related symptom burden for sedentary women using or not using hormonal contraceptives? Participants will: * Have their body composition assessed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry pre and post exercise intervention. * Complete a Menstrual Symptom Index (MSi) to report daily menstrual cycle related symptom burden in addition to the Premenstrual Symptom Screening Tool (PSST) and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) questionnaire monthly. * Utilize an at-home monitor to test urinary luteinizing hormone, estrone-3-glucuronide, and pregnanediol glucuronide approximately 10 times per month and report menstrual cycle length. * Record physical activity habits by continuously wearing a wrist-based accelerometer and chest-strap heart rate monitor during planned aerobic exercise sessions and complete the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) monthly. * Maintain their usual sedentary activity habits for one menstrual cycle followed by completion of an exercise intervention designed to progress individuals to meet minimum recommended aerobic physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes per week set by the American College of Sports Medicine for two menstrual cycles.

Effect of Connective Tissue Massage on Premenstrual Syndrome

This study will be conducted to investigate the effect of connective tissue massage on premenstrual syndrome.

Effect of Online Exercises for Premenstrual Syndrome on Couple's Stress and Family Function

Universe of Research The universe of the research; It will consist of women and their spouses with premenstrual syndrome complaints who use social media. 3.6. Sample of the Research The number of samples of the study was composed of a total of 60 (Intervention = 30, Control = 30) participants. Criteria for inclusion in the study: * Being married and living with his wife * Being between the ages of 18-45, * The woman's ability to use a mobile phone and/or computer to receive online * The woman and her husband must be literate * The woman does not have a hearing problem that would prevent her from understanding the voice recording, 9. Scoring 110 or above on the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale 10. Having regular menstrual cycles for the last six months, 13. Having no other medical disease in the last six months, 14. Participant who does not use oral contraceptives, 16. Not pregnant or breastfeeding, 17. No history of cancer. 18. Those who do not use medical drugs to reduce premenstrual syndrome 19. Those who do not use herbal medicine to reduce premenstrual syndrome 20. Do not practice exercise, yoga, etc. to reduce premenstrual syndrome. Exclusion criteria from the study: 1. He or his spouse fills out the research survey forms incompletely, 2. Pregnancy occurs, 3. Receiving breathing exercise consultancy from another consultant during the study period Data Collection Method and Duration Descriptive Characteristics Data Form, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Family Assessment Scale will be applied to the sampled women and their spouses. Data collection will continue until the calculated sample number is reached.

Premenstrual Syndrome and Laughter Yoga

In addition to physical and emotional effects, premenstrual syndrome can negatively affect the participation in classes, school success, social activities and family relationships of young adolescents in high school. Many non-pharmacological treatments have been found to improve premenstrual syndromes in adolescents. Laughter yoga, one of these methods, is a practice consisting of deep breathing exercises and laughter exercises. Laughter yoga has been studied in different sample groups (elderly people, nurses, dialysis patients, etc.) and positive results have been obtained. In this study, the effect of laughter yoga on premenstrual symptoms in adolescents will be examined.