Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain and Anxiety in Women With Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual periods, is a common condition that can affect daily activities and quality of life. This study aims to evaluate whether using virtual reality (VR) can reduce pain and anxiety in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a VR group or a 2D video group. Participants in the VR group will watch a relaxing virtual environment using a VR headset for 20 minutes once a day for three consecutive days. Participants in the 2D video group will watch the same content for the same duration and frequency using a 2D screen, such as a phone, tablet, or computer. Pain intensity and anxiety levels will be assessed before and after each session during the three-day intervention. The study will compare changes in pain and anxiety between the two groups to evaluate the effect of VR in women with primary dysmenorrhea.

Inclusion Criteria: * University students, * Diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea, * Having a regular menstrual cycle, * Willing to participate in the study, * Having no vision or hearing problems. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals diagnosed with secondary dysmenorrhea, * Individuals experiencing chronic pelvic pain, * Individuals with a psychiatric disorder, * Individuals using hormonal therapy, * Individuals using analgesics during menstruation, * Individuals with visual or hearing impairments, * Individuals wishing to withdraw at any stage of the study, * Individuals who fill out the forms incompletely or fail to fill them out.