Purpose: to compare the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) versus pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) on cortisol levels in primary dysmenorrhea.
Methods: Forty females suffered from primary dysmenorrhea were distributed randomly and equally into 2 group (A) & (B); group (A) was treated with LLLT for 3 consecutive menstrual cycles, while group (B) was treated with PEMF for 3 consecutive menstrual cycles. The outcome measures, including serum levels of cortisol and scores of menstrual distress questionnaire (MDQ), were evaluated pre- and post-treatment.
Results: There were significant reductions in serum cortisol levels and menstrual distress questionnaire scores within the two groups (A) & (B) (p < 0.05). Comparing between them post-treatment demonstrated that there was a significant decrease in serum cortisol levels in favour of group (B) (p < 0.05), while there was a non-significant difference in MDQ scores between them post-treatment (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Both LLLT and PEMF are efficient modalities in management of primary dysmenorrhea, with a greater effect of PEMF on reducing serum cortisol levels.