Role of Yoga Nidra on psychological problems of menstrual disorders in reproductive age group: A three months follow up study

Background: Yoga Nidra is a systematic method of inducing complete physical, mental and emotional relaxation. Yoga Nidra are widely used for distracting the senses and attention from stressful conditions of human being. Thus, it may be useful in psychological problems of menstrual disorder as well. Objective: To assess the effect of Yoga Nidra on anxiety, depression and well-being in the patients with menstrual irregularities. Methods: Patients who gave written informed consent were recruited from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George’s Medical University Uttar Pradesh Lucknow India. A total of 100 female subjects were randomly divided into two groups 1: Intervention Group of 50 subjects (yogic intervention and medication) 2: Control Group of 50 subjects (on medication only). ‘Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and Psychological General Well-being Index (PGWBI), were administered at the time of inclusion and after three months on both groups. Results: There was significant improvement in HAM-A, HAM-D and PGWBI scores in intervention group as compared to control group. Statistically significant difference was found in HAM-A and HAM-D (P<0.01), (P<0.03) respectively in intervention group as compared to the control group. There were significant improvement in anxiety (P<0.01), depression (P<0.04), positive well-being (P<0.04), general health (P<0.05), and vitality (P<0.03) scores in intervention group as compared to control group. Conclusion: The current findings suggest that patients with menstrual irregularities can improve their anxiety, depression and wellness by practicing Yoga Nidra.