<![CDATA[Primary dysmenorrhea is menstrual pain occurring in the absence of gynecological abnormalities; it affects the majority of women of reproductive age and negatively impacts quality of life, productivity, and absenteeism rates. Pharmacological management using Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) is common, yet long-term use carries the risk of systemic side effects. This study aims to identify, examine, and summarize various evidence-based non-pharmacological nursing approaches for reducing pain intensity in primary dysmenorrhea. A literature review with a descriptive-narrative approach was employed. Data were collected by searching reputable scientific articles (2022–2026) covering Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental studies, and systematic reviews. Synthesis of 25 research articles indicates that non-pharmacological nursing interventions significantly reduce dysmenorrhea pain scales and duration, while also improving quality of life and sleep. Interventions are categorized into five main groups: physical/thermal therapies (warm compresses, TENS); exercise/physical activity (dysmenorrhea exercises, yoga, Pilates, stretching); manual stimulation therapies (effleurage massage, acupressure, kinesio taping); relaxation/psychological therapies (lavender/rose oil aromatherapy, slow deep breathing, guided imagery, SEFT); and nutrition-based interventions (dark chocolate, pineapple-honey juice, green coconut water, banana-papaya smoothies). Among all interventions, thermal therapy (warm compresses) demonstrated the fastest and most superior effectiveness in instantly reducing pain levels. In conclusion, non-pharmacological nursing interventions are proven to be safe, non-invasive, and effective as independent strategies for managing primary dysmenorrhea.]]>
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