Non-randomised trial, 2026

Does yoga help reduce PMS symptoms?

Yes. Yoga significantly reduced PMS symptoms, with 55 to 79% improvement in different symptoms. However, there was no control group for comparison.

Early or limited evidence 47 working women aged 18-30 with premenstrual syndrome

What they did

50 working women aged 18-30 with PMS were enrolled in an open-label study where everyone knew they were receiving yoga. Women tracked baseline symptoms for 2 months, then practiced a structured yoga protocol for 3 months with monthly follow-ups. 47 women completed the study.

What they found

Premenstrual symptoms significantly decreased (p<0.05). After the 5th menstrual cycle, 55% to 79% improvement occurred in different symptoms based on the Premenstrual Symptom Screening Tool.

What it means for you

Yoga appears to reduce both physical and psychological PMS symptoms in working women. The main limitation is the lack of a control group. Everyone knew they were getting yoga, which could affect results through expectation.

women who completed the study

3 months

yoga intervention duration

55-79%

symptom improvement range

About the study

Original title: Efficacy of Yoga and Pranayama in the Management of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) in Working Women – An open labeled single arm clinical trial
Authors: Suma Rajaput, Sandeep Subash Sagare, Gayatri Hubli
Journal: Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine
Year: 2026
Study design: Non-randomised trial
Participants: 47
What was tested: Structured yoga protocol for 3 months
Open access: Yes
Read the paper: doi.org/10.70066/jahm.v14i1.2485

Topics

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)Exercise and yoga Work and productivity

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