Association between physical activity and the intensity of menstrual pain in young women

Abstract

This exploratory cross-sectional study examined physical activity patterns, menstrual characteristics, and menstrual pain intensity in 53 young women (mean age 19.98 +/- 0.72 years). Physical activity during the previous seven days was estimated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire framework and expressed as MET-min/week, while menstrual pain during the most recent cycle was assessed on a 0-10 numerical rating scale. Severe pain was reported by 19 participants (35.8%), and 39 participants (73.6%) were classified in the high physical activity category. Total physical activity was not significantly associated with pain intensity (Spearman's rho = .225, p = .105). Moderate physical activity showed a positive association with pain intensity (Spearman's rho = .428, p = .002), but the cross-sectional design does not permit causal interpretation. Rather than supporting a simple protective effect of greater activity volume, the findings suggest that the relationship between physical activity and menstrual pain may depend on individual symptoms, behavioural responses, measurement context, and unmeasured psychological or clinical factors. Because the sample was small, narrowly distributed by age, and dominated by highly active participants, the results should be interpreted as preliminary. Future studies should use larger and more heterogeneous samples, objective activity monitoring, validated multidimensional dysmenorrhea instruments, and repeated assessments across several menstrual cycles.