The effects of vitamin D and calcium on primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review 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 review aimed to assess the effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on primary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea is characterized by painful menstrual cramps that occur in the absence of any pelvic pathology. The review involved an analysis of studies published between 2010 and 2020, focusing on the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D and calcium and the severity of dysmenorrhea. Various studies were examined that included interventions with either vitamin D, calcium, or a combination of both, to determine their impact on reducing pain and the reliance on analgesics during menstruation.
Who was studied?
The studies included in the review involved women of reproductive age who experienced primary dysmenorrhea. Participants had regular cycles and were not diagnosed with secondary dysmenorrhea or underlying reproductive disorders such as endometriosis. A total of 2,774 participants were included across the 17 studies, most of whom had a normal body mass index (BMI). These participants received vitamin D and/or calcium supplements, and their dysmenorrhea severity was assessed using various tools such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) or Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).
Most important findings
The review found a significant inverse relationship between serum vitamin D and calcium levels and the severity of primary dysmenorrhea. Specifically, low serum levels of vitamin D were associated with more severe menstrual pain. Supplementation with vitamin D and calcium led to a reduction in pain severity, with several studies reporting that participants who received these supplements experienced a reduction in their reliance on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In some studies, high-dose vitamin D (e.g., 50,000 IU weekly) and calcium (1,200 mg daily) were found to significantly alleviate dysmenorrhea symptoms, improving overall quality of life for the participants. The review also highlighted the role of vitamin D in regulating inflammatory cytokines and calcium in uterine muscle contractions, both of which contribute to menstrual pain.
Key implications
The findings suggest that vitamin D and calcium supplementation could serve as an effective non-pharmacological treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. These supplements not only help in reducing pain intensity but also decrease the need for conventional pain relief medications, such as NSAIDs, which can have adverse side effects with long-term use. Given the widespread prevalence of vitamin D and calcium deficiency among women with dysmenorrhea, supplementation may offer a simple and safe alternative therapy for pain management.
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.