Omega-3 reduces menstrual painOmega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids as a potential treatment for reducing dysmenorrhoea pain: Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
Findings relevant but varied quality
We examined how omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids affect pelvic pain, particularly in dysmenorrhea, through a thorough review of existing studies.
Our analysis involved twelve studies with nearly 900 women, focusing on daily doses ranging from 300 to 1800 mg over two to three months.
While results indicated a significant reduction in pain and analgesic use, the quality of studies varied, leaving some questions about the specific effects and mechanisms of omega-3s.
Read More
We explored the effects of omega-3 fatty acids from Clupeonella grimmi fish oil on dysmenorrhoea through a clinical trial involving 36 young women. Participants were split into two groups; one received fish oil while the other received a placebo.
After three months, those taking fish oil reported significantly less pain, with visual analogue scale scores showing a marked improvement. Notably, there was also a reduction in low back and abdominal pain, and less reliance on ibuprofen.
Overall, omega-3 fish oil appears to effectively reduce pelvic pain associated with menstrual cycles.
Read More
Omega-3 and vitamin E effectiveVitamin E and fish oil, separately or in combination, on treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: a double-blind, randomized clinical trial.
High relevance for pain management
We set out to understand how omega-3 fish oil and vitamin E supplements could help with primary dysmenorrhea, a common issue among women. In this study, we randomly assigned 100 university students to groups receiving either omega-3, vitamin E, a combination of both, or a placebo.
After treatment, both omega-3 and vitamin E showed promising results in easing menstrual pain compared to the placebo. Interestingly, those who took both omega-3 and vitamin E experienced even greater relief. This suggests that these supplements can be effective alternatives to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for managing menstrual discomfort.
Read More
We explored the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids in easing the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea among young women. In a double-blind crossover study, participants took omega-3 supplements or a placebo over six months.
The results showed a noticeable reduction in pain intensity with omega-3 treatment. Women experienced less severe symptoms and required fewer ibuprofen tablets to manage their pain compared to when they were on the placebo.
This indicates that omega-3 fish oil can be a beneficial option for relieving pelvic pain.
Read More
We examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, in adolescents.
In a study involving 42 girls, participants were divided into two groups: one received fish oil for two months, followed by a placebo, while the other had the reverse.
Results showed a noteworthy reduction in pain after taking fish oil, indicating that omega-3 supplements can effectively alleviate menstrual pain.
Therefore, integrating omega-3s into one's diet could enhance comfort during painful periods for teens.
Read More