Positive Health Online

Abstract

ZIAEI and others, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical Science, Tarbiat Modarres University, PO Box 14115.111, Tehran, IR, Iran, have carried out a randomized controlled trial of vitamin E in the treatment of painful periods.

Background

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of vitamin E on primary dysmenorrhoea (heavy and painful periods).

Methodology

In this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study, 278 schoolgirls aged between 15 and 17 who suffered from primary dysmenorrhoea were given either 20 mg of vitamin E or placebo starting 2 days before the expected start of a period and continuing for 3 days after the start of the period. This treatment was carried out over 4 consecutive periods. Severity and duration of pain as well as blood loss were the primary outcome measures.

Results

In the vitamin E group, pain severity was lower with vitamin E at two months, and drastically lower at four months (p > 0.001). Pain duration was shorter at two months and drastically shorter at four months (p > 0.0001). Blood loss was lower at two months (p > 0.0001).

Conclusion

Vitamin E relieves the pain of primary dysmenorrhoea and reduces blood loss.

References

Ziaei S, Zakeri M, Kazemnejad A. A randomised controlled trial of vitamin E in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea. BJOG: an International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology 112 (4): 466-469, Apr 2005.

Comment

This is a result that could so easily be implemented in the primary care for women.