Pre-Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Billig’s Exercise in Reducing Dysmenorrhea Among Early Adolescent Girls in Selected Schools of Metropolitan City.”

Abstract

Introduction: Puberty marks a critical transition from childhood to adolescence, with menarche initiating the menstrual cycle in girls. Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is a prevalent condition affecting 40–90% of adolescent girls globally, leading to school absenteeism, reduced physical activity, and emotional distress. While pharmacological treatments provide relief, they may cause side effects. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercise, are increasingly recognized as effective in alleviating menstrual pain. Billig’s Exercise, developed in 1943, involves stretching the pelvic ligaments, hip flexors, and inner thigh muscles, promoting pain relief and improving overall well-being.

Aim: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Billig’s Exercise in reducing dysmenorrhea among early adolescent girls in selected schools of a metropolitan city.

Methodology: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test design was adopted, involving 100 early adolescent girls selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured demographic proforma and the WaLIDD scale, which assesses dysmenorrhea based on working ability, pain location, intensity, and duration. The intervention consisted of performing Billig’s Exercise twice daily for 20 minutes on the first and second days of menstruation. Pre-test assessment was conducted on day one, followed by post-test assessment on day two. Reliability of the tool was established (r = 0.97), and a pilot study confirmed feasibility.

Results: Pre-test findings indicated that 44% of participants experienced moderate and 56% severe dysmenorrhea. Post-test results showed a marked reduction, with 81% experiencing mild dysmenorrhea, 14% moderate, and 5% reporting no pain. Paired t-test analysis revealed a significant decrease in mean scores from 7.8 (SD = 1.7) to 3.0 (SD = 1.5), t(99) = 32.4, p < 0.001. Significant associations were found between dysmenorrhea and flow of menstruation (p = 0.011) and nature of menstrual pain (p = 0.002).

Conclusion: Billig’s Exercise is highly effective in reducing dysmenorrhea, enhancing comfort, daily functioning, and overall quality of life among early adolescent girls.