Endometriosis is a complex and debilitating gynecological condition affecting millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and reduced quality of life. While pharmacological interventions are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms, their efficacy may be limited, and they often come with adverse effects. Therefore, exploring non-pharmacological approaches, such as exercise, is crucial in improving the management of endometriosis-related symptoms. Aerobic exercise has gained attention as a potential therapeutic intervention for endometriosis due to its positive effects on pain modulation, hormonal regulation, and overall well-being.
This randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted at Jinnah Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise with and without core muscle strengthening on pain, menstrual pattern, and quality of life in women diagnosed with endometriosis. The study will employ a convenient randomization sampling technique, aiming to recruit approximately 30 participants who meet the inclusion criteria. Eligible participants will be reproductive-age women experiencing endometriosis-related pain, with regular menstrual cycles or irregularities associated with endometriosis. They should be medically stable, cleared for physical activity, and willing to participate in an exercise intervention program. Exclusion criteria include pregnancy, severe endometriosis-related complications, significant comorbidities, recent surgery, ongoing hormonal treatments targeting endometriosis, inability to participate in exercise programs, and severe mental health conditions. By investigating these interventions, the study seeks to improve symptom management, menstrual regularity, and overall quality of life for women with endometriosis while considering safety and feasibility within the study setting. Keywords: Endometriosis, Menstrual pattern, Aerobic Exercise, Core Muscle Strengthening, Quality of Life
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
30
Participants assigned to this group will undergo a combination of aerobic exercise and core muscle strengthening interventions. The aerobic exercise component will be similar to the first group, while additional exercises targeting the core muscles (abdomen, back, and pelvis) will be included.
Aerobic Exercise without Core Muscle Strengthening
Jinnah Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Visual Analog Scale for Pain:
The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for Pain is a commonly used instrument for assessing pain intensity. It is a subjective measure that asks individuals to rate their pain on a continuous line or scale. The VAS typically consists of a 10 cm line with anchor points representing "no pain" on one end and "worst possible pain" on the other end. Participants are instructed to mark the line at the point that represents their current level of pain.
Time frame: 8 weeks
Endometrial Health Profile-30 Endometrial Health Profile
The EHP-30 (Endometrial Health Profile-30) is a specific questionnaire designed to assess the impact of endometriosis on various aspects of a person's life. It is a self-report instrument that measures health-related quality of life in individuals with endometriosis.
Time frame: 8 weeks
Menstrual pattern Bleeding score MIQ questionnaire
The Menstrual Pattern Bleeding Score MIQ (Menstrual Impact Questionnaire) questionnaire is a specific tool used to assess the impact of menstrual patterns and bleeding on individuals' lives. It is a self-report questionnaire that measures the severity and impact of menstrual symptoms and irregularities on various aspects of daily functioning.
Time frame: 8 weeks
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