Self-acupressure to reduce period pain and premenstrual symptoms
Official title: Effects of Self-Acupressure on Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms in Women Aged 18-30: A Randomized, Sham-Controlled, 6-Month Trial
Run by Nigde Omer Halisdemir University · NCT07409337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether a self-acupressure routine can reduce period pain and premenstrual symptoms in university students aged 18–30 with primary dysmenorrhea.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Nigde Omer Halisdemir University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Niğde, Merkez) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | August 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07409337 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are female university students aged 18–30 with regular 21–35 day cycles, moderate to severe primary dysmenorrhea and PMS, not using hormonal contraception, and willing to perform self-acupressure for about six cycles.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with secondary causes of menstrual pain (for example endometriosis or fibroids), current or recent hormonal therapy, pregnancy/breastfeeding, chronic systemic illnesses, or prior formal acupuncture/acupressure training are unlikely to benefit from this protocol or be eligible.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a randomized, parallel-group, sham-controlled trial comparing a self-administered acupressure protocol applied to predefined points (SP6, CV4, ST36, LV3) with a matched sham acupressure applied to non-acupoint locations. Participants are university students aged 18–30 with regular cycles who will perform daily acupressure during the premenstrual phase and early menstruation across about five to six cycles. Primary outcome is change in menstrual pain severity, with secondary outcomes including premenstrual symptom scores, analgesic use, and menstruation-related activity limitation. Interventions are matched for training, session duration, frequency, and pressure intensity to isolate the specific effects of acupoint stimulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If effective, this low-cost, self-administered method could reduce menstrual pain and premenstrual symptoms without medication.
How similar studies have gone: Previous small randomized studies of acupuncture and acupressure for dysmenorrhea have shown mixed but often promising results, so the approach has prior supportive but not definitive evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Female participants aged 18 to 30 years * Regular menstrual cycles (21-35 days) * Diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea with moderate to severe menstrual pain * Presence of premenstrual symptoms consistent with premenstrual syndrome * Currently enrolled as a university student * Willingness to perform self-acupressure as instructed for approximately six menstrual cycles * Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Secondary dysmenorrhea (e.g., endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease) * Current use of hormonal contraceptives or hormonal therapy within the past 3 months * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Chronic gynecological, endocrine, or systemic disease that may affect menstrual pain or symptoms * Regular use of analgesic or anti-inflammatory medications outside menstruation * Prior formal training or regular practice of acupuncture or acupressure * Inability to comply with study procedures or follow-up schedule
Where it's running
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Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University Hospital
Niğde, Merkez, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Pınar Erdoğan, Assoc. Prof.
- Email: drpinarerdogan@gmail.com
- Phone: +905233646954
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.