Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin E has been investigated as a treatment for primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) based on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews have examined its efficacy. A notable RCT published in BJOG (2001) reported that women who took 400 IU of vitamin E daily, starting two days before menstruation and continuing through the first three days of bleeding, experienced a significant reduction in pain intensity compared to placebo. Other studies, including a 2016 meta-analysis in Obstetrics & Gynecology Science, have supported these findings, suggesting that vitamin E may reduce both pain severity and the need for additional pain medication.

The proposed mechanism involves vitamin E’s ability to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are implicated in uterine muscle contractions and menstrual pain. By acting as an antioxidant, vitamin E may also reduce oxidative stress in uterine tissue, potentially decreasing inflammation and pain. However, while results are promising, the number of high-quality trials is limited, and sample sizes have generally been small. Guidelines do not currently recommend vitamin E as a first-line treatment for dysmenorrhea, but it may be considered as an adjunct or alternative for those seeking non-pharmacological options.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of vitamin E for dysmenorrhea, with most studies suggesting a beneficial effect, though larger and more rigorous trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety profile.

More about vitamin E
More about Dysmenorrhea