Effectiveness of Radiofrequency in Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction:

Noninvasive, nonablative capacitive and resistive radiofrequency has emerged as a therapeutic tool for managing pelvic pain. However, research on its efficacy in pelvic floor dysfunctions is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of capacitive and resistive radiofrequency therapy for primary dysmenorrhea.

Methods:

A randomized, single-blind, controlled trial was conducted. Forty-five nulliparous women with a medical diagnosis of primary dysmenorrhea were included. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: transabdominal radiofrequency, intracavitary radiofrequency, or control. The intervention groups received nine 20-min sessions, with 3 sessions per week over 3 weeks between menstrual cycles. Pain intensity, menstrual quality of life, general quality of life, and pain pressure thresholds were assessed at baseline, postintervention, and at 1-month follow-up.

Results:

Both transabdominal and intracavitary radiofrequency significantly reduced pain intensity compared with the control group (p < 0.001). Intracavitary radiofrequency achieved a greater reduction than transabdominal, although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.311). No significant between-group differences were observed in mechanical sensitivity (p > 0.05) across all pressure points. Menstrual quality of life significantly improved in the intracavitary group compared with the control (p = 0.023), whereas the transabdominal group showed no significant improvement (p = 0.176). Changes in general quality of life were not statistically significant in any group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Both transabdominal and intracavitary radiofrequency therapies produced short-term reduction in pain intensity in women with primary dysmenorrhea. As the efficacy between modalities did not differ significantly, treatment could be tailored to patient preference and tolerability.