Analgesia by Sacral Surface Electrical Stimulation for Primary Dysmenorrhoea

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the effects of analgesia by sacral surface electrical stimulation on lower abdominal pain in women with primary dysmenorrhoea.

Design

Explorative study.

Participants

Eleven female university students, who regularly experience difficulty in their university work due to menstrual pain, or who use analgesics for more than one day each month, were recruited.

Methods

Sacral surface electrical stimulation, 5 Hz for 15 min, was performed after the onset of menstruation. Electrodes were placed on the skin, directly above the second and fourth sacral foramina. Visual analogue scale and degree of pain (calculated by using a low current to assess pain) were determined before and after electrical stimulation.

Results

Visual analogue scale score and degree of pain decreased significantly immediately after electrical stimulation ( p < 0.001). A correlation was observed between visual analogue scale score and degree of pain before and after electrical stimulation (r=0.516, p <0.001). No side-effects were observed in any participant.

Conclusion

Sacral surface electrical stimulation may provide immediate pain relief in women with dysmenorrhoea and lower abdominal pain.

LAY ABSTRACT

Eleven female university students, who regularly experience difficulty performing their university work due to menstrual pain, or who use analgesics for more than one day each month, received electrical stimulation for relief of lower abdominal pain. Electrodes were placed on the skin over the lower region of the spine, while participants were in the prone position. Stimulation was performed for 15 min at a frequency of 5 Hz. Lower abdominal pain associated with menstruation decreased immediately after electrical stimulation; no side-effects were observed in any participant. For women who do not wish to take analgesics, electrical stimulation could be an option for complementary therapy. These findings indicate that electrical stimulation of the skin over the lower spine may provide immediate relief of menstrual pain.