Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Primary Dysmenorrhea Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This study systematically reviewed the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in alleviating primary dysmenorrhea symptoms. Dysmenorrhea, characterized by painful menstruation, often results from an inflammatory response. The study focused on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effects of oral vitamin D, assessing pain levels using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). A total of nine RCTs were included in the meta-analysis to evaluate various dosages and administration frequencies of vitamin D supplementation.
Who was studied?
The study analyzed data from 695 participants across multiple RCTs, including women diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea. These women were selected based on a normal menstrual cycle and no underlying reproductive disorders like endometriosis or fibroids. The participants were primarily from different age groups and varied geographical regions. The trials compared vitamin D supplementation against a placebo, with varying doses ranging from 5000 IU to 300,000 IU.
Most important findings
The meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in the severity of dysmenorrhea pain among those who received vitamin D supplementation compared to the placebo group. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was −1.404 (95% CI: −2.078 to −0.731), indicating a strong therapeutic effect. Subgroup analyses showed that a weekly dose of over 50,000 IU of vitamin D significantly alleviated pain, regardless of the duration of the supplementation period. Additionally, the studies found a positive correlation between higher serum levels of 25(OH)D and reduced pain intensity. Importantly, the analysis also highlighted the significant role of vitamin D in regulating prostaglandin (PG) levels, which are central to dysmenorrhea’s pathophysiology.
Key implications
The findings suggest that vitamin D supplementation can be an effective alternative treatment for primary dysmenorrhea, especially for those who experience side effects or contraindications with NSAIDs or oral contraceptives. Given that vitamin D deficiency is common among women with dysmenorrhea, this study supports considering vitamin D as a first-line therapy for pain management in primary dysmenorrhea. However, careful monitoring of vitamin D levels is recommended to avoid potential toxicity, particularly with long-term high-dose supplementation. Further research is needed to establish optimal dosing strategies and explore potential interactions with other micronutrients or treatments.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.