Yamaguchi, N., Takahashi, T., Sakuma, M., Sugita, T., Uchikawa, K., Sakaihara, S., Kanda, T., Arai, M. and Kawakita, K. (2007)
This study evaluated the effect of acupuncture on NSAID resistant dysmenorrhea related pain, which was measured according to the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) in 15 consecutive patients. Pain was measured at baseline, mid treatment, end of treatment and at 3 & 6 months post treatment.
The study found a substatial reduction in pain in 13 of 15 patients (87%), with significant reductions of pain intensity and average pain duration with respect to baseline values. Greater reductions were found with primary as compared to secondary dysmenorrhea.
Average NSAID use was significantly reduced, and ceased completely in 7 patients, who were still asymptomatic 6 months post treatment.
The findings from this study suggest that acupuncture may be indicated to treat dysmenorrhea related pain, particularly where NSAID or oral contraceptives are contraindicated or refused.
Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2007) eCAM Advance Access