Italian researchers have evaluated the benefits of acupuncture for period pain which has been resistant to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Fifteen women received acupuncture weekly for eight weeks, and were allowed to continue using painkillers as necessary. Pain was assessed at four points during the trial, including at three and six months afterwards. A substantial reduction in both pain and NSAID use was observed in 87% of the women. Average pain duration and intensity, were still more than 50% lower six months after treatment. Seven patients had no further symptoms at all, at six month follow-up.
(Acupuncture Treatment of Dysmenorrhea Resistant to Conventional Medical Treatment. Evidence Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, June 2008.)