This randomized controlled trial was conducted between June 12 and December 29, 2025, among female university students to evaluate the effects of Anastatica hierochuntica application and breathing exercises on functional and emotional dysmenorrhea. The study was designed and reported in accordance with the CONSORT 2025 guidelines. The sample size was calculated based on previous research examining the effects of telerehabilitation on dysmenorrhea, with a power of 80% and a margin of error of 0.05. Although the minimum required sample size was determined as 54 participants, a total of 100 women with dysmenorrhea were included to account for potential attrition. No participants were lost during the study, and the trial was completed with 100 women, with 50 participants allocated to each group. Participants were recruited through announcements disseminated via official university social media accounts and student information platforms. Women aged 18-35 years who reported regular menstrual cycles and severe menstrual pain (Visual Analog Scale \[VAS\] score ≥7) were screened for eligibility. Eligible participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the Anastatica hierochuntica group or the breathing exercises group using computer-generated randomization. Allocation concealment was ensured using sequentially numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes prepared by an independent researcher. In the Anastatica hierochuntica group, participants received the intervention on the first day of menstruation once per cycle for three consecutive menstrual cycles. The application was performed in a quiet and dimly lit obstetrics laboratory setting without any physical contact. The plant was placed in water until fully opened, after which it was removed and the water discarded. In the breathing exercises group, participants were instructed in the 4-7-8 breathing technique on the first day of menstruation. The initial session was conducted under researcher supervision, and participants were advised to perform the exercise during periods of peak pain intensity on the first day of menstruation. This intervention was also continued for three consecutive menstrual cycles. Data were collected at baseline and at the end of the third menstrual cycle using a structured Data Collection Form, the Visual Analog Scale, and the Functional and Emotional Dysmenorrhea Scale (FEDS). The primary outcome was the change in functional and emotional dysmenorrhea levels following the interventions. Ethical approval was obtained prior to data collection, and written informed consent was secured from all participants. The study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki.
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Functional and Emotional Dysmenorrhea Impact (FEDI) Scale
Timeframe: Measurements will be taken at enrollment (Day 0), on Day 1 of the second menstrual cycle (each cycle = 28 days), and on Day 1 of the third menstrual cycle following enrollment (each cycle = 28 days).