Systematic review, 2022
Do aerobic exercises help women with premenstrual syndrome symptoms?
Yes, aerobic exercises such as walking, swimming, and running are effective in improving PMS symptoms, especially physical symptoms. Study quality was moderate and more long-term research is needed.
What they did
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials published from inception through February 2022. Identified 5 trials with 492 total participants. Common exercises were walking, swimming, and running. Used standard tools to assess study methodology and risk of bias.
What they found
Aerobic exercise was effective in improving physical and physiological symptoms of PMS. Moderate evidence was found for improving blood-related measures during PMS. Many studies had poor allocation concealment and lack of participant blinding.
What it means for you
Aerobic exercise appears helpful for PMS symptoms and is an accessible non-drug option. However, the studies had methodological weaknesses including poor blinding and allocation concealment. More high-quality long-term studies examining quality of life are needed.
5
Randomized controlled trials included
492
Total participants studied
4.8/10
Average study quality score
About the study
- Original title
- Effect of Aerobic Exercises in Improving Premenstrual Symptoms Among Healthy Women: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
- Authors
- Ravichandran H, Janakiraman B
- Journal
- International journal of women's health
- Year
- 2022
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- Aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, running)
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.2147/ijwh.s371193
Topics
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