The comparison effect of vitamin E and Fennel extract on intensity of primary dysmenorrhea

Background and primary dysmenorrhea is described as pelvic pain around the time menstrual bleeding in the absence of an identifiable pathologic lesion. It is a common gynecologic problem among women in reproductive age groups. Our objective was to compare the effect of vitamin E and Fennel extract on intensity of primary dysmenorrhea A randomized single blind, Placebo-controlled trial among 65 single female students who suffered from primary dysmenorrhea that divided into 3 groups: Fennel extract, vitamin E and placebo. Groups used treatment four times a day from the onset of bleeding and continued through three days for two consecutive menstrual periods. In the Fenalgin group, pain severity was lower in compare to before treatment (P<0.000) and vitamin E group either cycle (P<0.02). Comparison 3 groups showed that there was significant difference in pain severity in second cycle and reduction was greater in Fenalgin group (P<0.019). Painkiller using was lower in compare to before treatment in Fenalgin and vitamin E vitamin E groups but reduction in both drugs was not significant in compare to placebo. Fenalgin, which has few side effects, can be taken for treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. More clinical trial needed to establish the efficacy of this herbal drug.