Do vitamin D and E supplements reduce menstrual pain and PMS symptoms?

Introduction: Primary dysmenorrhea is a common condition characterized by painful menstrual cramps. Vitamin D and E are suggested to have potential benefits in managing dysmenorrhea. This study aimed to investigate the effects of vitamin D and E supplements combination on pain intensity and premenstrual symptoms in individuals with primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: A double blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 106 participants diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea. The participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (received vitamin D and E supplements) or the control group (received placebo). Pain intensity and premenstrual symptoms were assessed at baseline and after four months of supplementation. Results: The intervention group exhibited a significant reduction in pain intensity (NPRS: from 7.85 ± 1.15 to 3.75 ± 1.40; mean difference - 4.10, 95% CI: -4.61 to -3.58, p < 0.001) compared to controls (7.68 ± 1.20 to 6.02 ± 1.70). Premenstrual symptoms significantly improved (PMS score: 32.42 ± 4.67 to 9.02 ± 8.84, Δ=-23.40, 95% CI: -26.51 to -21.02, p < 0.001). Baseline vitamin D inversely correlated with pain (r=-0.768, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Combined vitamin D and E supplementation significantly reduces pain and PMS in vitamin D-deficient women. Healthcare providers may consider this regimen for dysmenorrhea management, pending further optimization studies. Trial registration: In IRCT.ir with number IRCT20220720055506N1 at 2023-02-01.

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