Effect of Foot Reflexology Protocol on Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms in Nursing Students: a Pre-Post Pilot Study

In Plain Language: reflexology for PMS, explained

Premenstrual syndrome is a highly prevalent cyclical disorder among women of childbearing age which interferes with daily activities, mood, and quality of life. To evaluate the effects of a foot reflexology protocol on relieving premenstrual syndrome symptoms in nursing students. Nursing School, São Paulo University, Brazil. A convenience sample of 17 nursing students, diagnosed with moderate-to-severe premenstrual syndrome as assessed by the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST). A pre-post pilot intervention study. The intervention consisted of eight reflexology sessions lasting 30 minutes for eight weeks. Evaluation of the participants by the PSST applied at the beginning and at the end of the study. The participants had an average age of 21.7 (±2.6) years, ranging from 19 to 28 years; all were single, and most were in the third year of the course (58.8%); 75.6% lived with their family; 82.4% do not use contraceptives; 64.7% reported regular menstrual flow with an average duration of 5.1 (±1.1) days, and an average menstrual cycle interval of 29.3 (±4.9) days. The intervention significantly reduced the premenstrual symptoms assessed by the PSST (pp<.04), except for the item "your home responsibilities". Foot reflexology has shown promising results in reducing premenstrual syndrome symptoms.