Does Physical Activity and Age at Menarche Affect Dysmenorrhea In Addolescents: A Scoping Review

Rarania Tilana Wulandari Rarania; Mufdlilah; Farida Kartini

doi:10.24036/eksakta/vol27-iss04/724

EKSAKTA: Berkala Ilmiah Bidang MIPA

Open Access

Does Physical Activity and Age at Menarche Affect Dysmenorrhea In Addolescents: A Scoping Review

Rarania Tilana Wulandari Rarania ¹

, Mufdlilah ¹

, Farida Kartini ¹

¹ Master's Program in Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas 'Aisyiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Published 2026-08-30

Vol. 27 No. 04 (2026) PAGES 759-770

DOI 10.24036/eksakta/vol27-iss04/724

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Abstract

This scoping review aimed to explore the influence of exercise habits and age at menarche on the incide nce of dysmenorrhea among adolescents. This study used a scoping review approach by searching articles from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases. Articles were selected based on quantitative research designs, publication within the last ten years (2015–2025), language availability, and relevance to adolescent populations. Data extraction included article characteristics, research methods, and main findings. Of 662 records identified, 21 reports were included in the final synthesis. Physical-activity-related findings appeared in 11 of 21 studies (52.4%); five studies (23.8%) evaluated structured exercise interventions, five (23.8%) addressed nutrition/BMI/lifestyle factors, and four (19.0%) addressed psychological factors. Low physical activity generally corresponded with greater dysmenorrhea, whereas stretching, dysmenorrhea exercise, yoga, Pilates, and massage reduced pain. Associations with age at menarche and BMI were less consistent. Anemia, menstrual characteristics, stress, anxiety, and depression also contributed. JBI appraisal classified 17 studies (81.0%) as Grade A or B and four (19.0%) as Grade C or D. Overall, dysmenorrhea is multifactorial; regular physical activity and integrated physical-mental health support are reasonable priorities, although methodological heterogeneity limits certainty.

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Does Physical Activity and Age at Menarche Affect Dysmenorrhea In Addolescents: A Scoping Review

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