Development and validation of a Yoga module for Primary dysmenorrhoea

Abstract

Menstrual pain without organic pathology is considered to be primary dysmenorrhoea. Dysmenorrhoea refers to the occurrence of painful menstrual cramps of uterine origin. It is a common gynaecological condition with considerable morbidity affecting majority of the adolescent girls, yet which is under diagnosed and under treated. Yoga can be considered as a simple and safe management tool for Primary Dysmenorrhoea. Studies have reported the beneficial role of Yoga in alleviating the symptoms of Primary dysmenorrhoea; however, a validated Yoga module for Primary dysmenorrhoea is unavailable. This study developed and validated an integrated Yoga module (IYM) for Primary dysmenorrhoea. Methods: The IYM was prepared after a thorough review of classical Yoga texts and previous findings. Twenty experienced Yoga experts, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, were selected validating the content of the IYM. A total of 38 practices were included in the IYM, and each practice was discussed and rated as (i) not essential, (ii) useful but not essential, and (iii) essential; the content validity ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe’s formula. Results: Data analysis revealed that of the 38 IYM practices, 18 exhibited significant content validity (cut-off value: 0.42, as calculated by applying Lawshe’s formula for the CVR). Conclusion: The IYM is valid for Primary dysmenorrhoea, with good content validity. However, future studies must determine the feasibility and efficacy of the developed module.