Primary dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynecological conditions during adolescence and is associated not only with recurrent menstrual pain, but also with emotional disturbances and difficulties in behavioral regulation. Various studies have indicated that hot executive functions-linked to emotional processing, decision-making in affective contexts, and impulse control-play a relevant role in the experience of and coping with pain.
The present project aims to design and evaluate the effectiveness of a structured psychological intervention focused on strengthening hot executive functions and emotional self-regulation in adolescents with primary dysmenorrhea. A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-intervention assessment is proposed, using validated instruments to measure pain intensity, coping strategies, and executive-emotional performance. The intervention is expected to contribute to a reduction in perceived pain and to improvements in emotional regulation strategies, promoting more adaptive coping. This study seeks to provide empirical evidence on brief psychological interventions aimed at the comprehensive management of menstrual pain in adolescent populations.
Age: 15 to 19 years.
Estimated IQ above 80.
With painful menstrual cycles (primary dysmenorrhea) without a prior gynecological diagnosis.
Students at the institution selected for the intervention.
Ages other than those previously indicated.
An estimated IQ below 80.
A prior gynecological diagnosis of a condition other than dysmenorrhea.
Pharmacological or hormonal treatment that could, in and of itself, interfere with executive functions, pain perception, and emotional regulation.