Sensory Processing Patterns in Emerging Adult Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the sensory processing patterns of emerging adult women with primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and those without PD. Materials and Methods: A total of 540 women were included in the study, divided into two groups: the study group (SG, n = 300) and the control group (CG, n = 240). The Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) was utilized to assess sensory processing patterns and sensory modalities. The severity of PD was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) with a range of 0 to 10. The participants' weight and height were recorded, and the body mass indexes were calculated. Results: As evidenced by the AASP scores, participants in the SG demonstrated heightened levels of sensory sensitivity in comparison to those in the CG (p < 0.05). PD reported heightened levels of sensory sensitivity across multiple domains, including taste/smell, movement, visual, touch, activity level, and auditory processing (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This article highlights the significance of considering sensory processing patterns in the assessment and management of PD among emerging adult women. By recognizing and addressing sensory sensitivities, healthcare providers can improve the quality of care and support for individuals navigating the challenges of menstrual pain.