Grant: Operating Grant: ECI grants in Maternal, Reproductive, Child & Youth Health

One in four girls experiences dysmenorrhea, or menstrual pain, that is severe in nature and interferes with their daily activities. There is a significant need for non-pharmacological and easily accessible intervention options for this population. Despite the demonstrated effectiveness of psychological interventions such as mindfulness in effectively relieving pain and decreasing activity interference, psychological interventions for menstrual pain among adolescents have not been examined. Additionally, digital interventions, such as smartphone apps, which have the potential to be easily accessible and designed to meet the needs of adolescents, have not been researched in this population. The goal of this project is to develop, conduct usability testing, and examine the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a mindfulness app for adolescents with menstrual pain. We will use a user-centred design and a three-phased approach. In phase one we will conduct a needs assessment using a survey and focus groups to identify menstrual pain management needs and preferences, and mindfulness preferences and knowledge among adolescents. This will inform the development of an app prototype. In phase two, we will conduct iterative cycles of usability testing to refine the mindfulness app prototype. In phase three, we will recruit adolescents to use the app over a 4-month timeframe. The acceptability and satisfaction with the app will be evaluated and preliminary efficacy of the app on improving pain and mindfulness outcomes will be assessed. This will be the first study to investigate the use of mindfulness in adolescents with menstrual pain and the use of an app targeting menstrual pain among adolescents. This research has the potential for widespread impact on the wellbeing of adolescents who menstruate.