Psychological aspects of dysmenorrhea – a review study
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is still a taboo or trivialized topic, although it affects a significant number of women. The problem can also have major psychological consequences. The article, in the form of a review study, presents an overview of current findings on dysmenorrhea's psychological and psychopathological aspects based on a search of database journal sources. The topic is divided into several areas focused on psychological theories of the origin of dysmenorrhea, psychopathology associated with dysmenorrhea, the influence of self-concepts (such as self-concept, locus of control, body image, etc.) and psychotherapeutic approaches to solving dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea can negatively affect women's self-confidence during menstruation and beyond, negatively affecting the quality of life, social relationships, and perception of one's body. Several studies have confirmed the connection with emotional problems, stress and psychopathologies such as depression, anxiety, neurotic problems, OCD, eating disorders and others. The treatment of dysmenorrhea using psychotherapy is effective, especially in the case of behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, autogenic training and other relaxation techniques and techniques focused on working with the body.
https://doi.org/10.29364/epsy.456
(Fulltext in Czech)
Keywords
dysmenorrhea, psychology of pain, self-concept, well-beingLiterature
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