Survey study, 1993
Does guided imagery reduce PMS symptoms and lengthen periods?
Guided imagery significantly reduced PMS distress and increased menstrual cycle length in women who completed the full program. However, this is preliminary evidence from a small group, and larger studies with control groups are needed.
What they did
Thirty healthy college women with regular menstrual cycles were followed for 6 months. They completed a questionnaire about menstrual distress at the beginning and end, and recorded their cycles for 3 months. Then they listened to an audiotape with relaxation and guided imagery designed to lengthen the cycle and delay bleeding. Fifteen women completed the entire study.
What they found
The 15 women who completed the study had significant increases in menstrual cycle length during the 3 months of guided imagery. Their total premenstrual distress scores significantly decreased, as did subscores measuring behavior and negative affect.
What it means for you
Guided imagery and relaxation may help reduce PMS symptoms and lengthen cycles. However, only half the women completed the study, the sample is small, and there was no control group. These findings are preliminary and may not apply to all women.
30
women enrolled
15
completed the full study
6 months
total study duration
About the study
- Original title
- Menstrual-cycle lengthening and reduction in premenstrual distress through guided imagery
- Authors
- Groër M, Ohnesorge C
- Journal
- Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association
- Year
- 1993
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 15
- What was tested
- Audiotape with relaxation and guided imagery focusing on lengthening the menstrual cycle
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1177/089801019301100308