Development and validation of a Yoga module for Primary dysmenorrhoea

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.