Clinical Effectiveness of Sealed Cupping Moxibustion in the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea
- VernacularTitle:Анхдагч дисменорейн өвдөлтийн битүү бумбат төөнүүр эмчилгээний үр дүн
- Author:
Chen Xue
1
;
Xue Mei
1
;
Yan Chun Wei
1
;
Seded B
2
;
Lkhamjav T
3
;
Batnairamdal Ch
3
Author Information
1. The International School of Mongolian Medicine, Department of Traditional Medicine, MNUMS
2. The Graduate School of Medical Science, MNUMS
3. The Central Hospital of Mongolian Traditional Medicine, MNUMS
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Primary dysmenorrhea;
Moxibustion;
Traditional Chinese medicine;
Pain management;
Quality of life;
Non-pharmacological treatment
- From:
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences
2026;92(2):17-22
- CountryMongolia
- Language:Mongolian
-
Abstract:
Background:Primary dysmenorrhea is the most prevalent gynecological complaint among women of reproductive age, often manifesting as intense cramping pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation. Although pharmaceutical interventions such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and oral contraceptives are commonly used to manage symptoms, their temporary effects and frequent side effects, including gastrointestinal issues and hormonal imbalances, limit long-term use. As a result, there is growing interest in complementary and alternative therapies. Huolongguan moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medical technique involving the burning of mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) near specific acupoints, is believed to enhance energy (qi) flow, promote blood circulation, reduce pain, and restore the balance of body functions.
Aim:This study aims to investigate the clinical effectiveness of moxibustion in alleviating menstrual pain and improving overall well-being in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the feasibility and relevance of applying this traditional technique within contemporary medical practice.
Materials and Methods:The study used a non-randomized clinical trial, double-blind, placebo-controlled design with treatment (n=30) and control (n=30) groups. Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), while quality of life will be measured using the EQ-5D questionnaire. Psychological status, including anxiety and depression levels, will be evaluated using Cox mentrual symptom scale (CMSS). Data will be collected at baseline and post-treatment, followed by statistical analysis to determine treatment efficacy.
Result:In the experimental group that received sealed cupping moxibustion therapy, the COX score decreased by approximately 99% after 3 months compared with the baseline value, whereas in the control group it decreased by approximately 27%. In addition, the VAS and EQ-5D-5L scores in the experimental group showed a statistically significant reduction as the duration of treatment increased (P<0.001), indicating that sealed cupping moxibustion therapy effectively reduced pain and related symptoms.
Conclusion:The results of this study demonstrate that cupping moxibustion therapy significantly reduces pain and associated symptoms in patients with primary dysmenorrhea and improves their quality of life. The therapeutic effect increased with longer treatment duration, and the outcomes in the experimental group were significantly better than those in the control group. Therefore, cupping moxibustion therapy may be considered an effective traditional therapeutic approach for the management of primary dysmenorrhea.
- Full text:20260926152722684863.pdf
