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Randomised trial, 2025

Does relaxation training help women with PMDD?

Yes. Relaxation training significantly reduced PMDD symptoms, anxiety, depression, and disability in women with PMDD, and improved their quality of life.

Moderate study design 63 women with PMDD

What they did

Randomized controlled trial with 63 women who have PMDD. Half received 12 sessions of relaxation training (progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagination), while half received no treatment. Both groups completed symptom questionnaires before and after the intervention.

What they found

The relaxation training group showed significant improvements in PMDD symptoms, anxiety, depression, disability, and quality of life. The control group showed no significant changes.

What it means for you

Relaxation training may help PMDD symptoms. However, more research is needed to understand if the benefits last long-term and how it fits into overall PMDD treatment plans.

63

women

12

sessions

About the study

Original title
Combined mind-body intervention for premenstrual dysphoric disorder: A randomized controlled trial
Authors
Abaoğlu H, Çiftçi HŞ, Ekici G
Journal
Health care for women international
Year
2025
Study design
Randomised trial
What was tested
12 sessions of relaxation training, including progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagination

Topics