Prevalence of dysmenorrhea and Ayurveda treatment: A cross-sectional survey

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea (Udavarta yonivyapad) in Indian population and the utilization of Ayurvedic practices. Furthermore, the study attempts to analyze the barriers to Ayurvedic health care access in Indian population. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was done using a semistructured questionnaire with 40 questions on various aspects of dysmenorrhea and the utilization of Ayurvedic health services. From the responses of 310 respondents, 306 were included in the study. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale was used to gauge the intensity of pain. A descriptive analysis of the data collected was done, and the results were expressed as percentages. Results: The present study shows 75.16% prevalence of dysmenorrhea. Among the respondents with dysmenorrhea, over-the-counter usage of medicines was more prevalent in participants with mild dysmenorrhea, whereas professional consultation was sought with increased severity of pain. Many participants sought more than one treatment modality for pain relief. Those who got relief were 38.89% who sought allopathic treatment and 62.79% who sought Ayurvedic management. Conclusion: The number of participants seeking Ayurvedic professional was comparatively less with regard to the prevalence of dysmenorrhea. Even though Ayurvedic management is perceived to be effective in managing dysmenorrhea by those who opted, the number of participants who sought Ayurveda was less. Lack of awareness regarding Ayurvedic remedies for simple ailments such as dysmenorrhea and lack of reference system were the reasons for it. Awareness should be created regarding Ayurvedic management of dysmenorrhea and other ailments for safe and efficacious use of Ayurvedic health care system.