Do college students know that exercise helps PMS and do they actually exercise?

Background: Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) is characterised by recurring physical and psychological symptoms such as cramps, headaches, mood swings, anxiety, and poor concentration that occur 5 to 14 days before menstruation and typically resolve at menstruation onset. These symptoms can disrupt students’ daily activities and academic performance. Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to reduce the severity of both physical and emotional PMS symptoms by promoting overall well-being¹ . Objective: This study aimed to assess college students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) concerning aerobic exercise in relation to PMS management. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a validated questionnaire was distributed online to 189 college students in Bangalore to assess their KAP regarding aerobic exercise and PMS. Responses were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Two-thirds of students (66%) had moderate knowledge about aerobic exercise and PMS, and 75% reported a positive attitude towards exercise. However, only 34% of students reported regular practice of aerobic exercise, indicating a significant gap between awareness and actual behaviour. Mood swings were the most commonly reported PMS symptom among participants. Conclusion: The findings of the study emphasise the need to encourage regular physical activity among students to better manage PMS symptoms and enhance menstrual health and overall well-being. Major Findings: Premenstrual syndrome was common among college students and frequently affected daily activities. Although knowledge and attitude toward aerobic exercise were generally positive, regular exercise practice was limited. Preference for exercising was influenced more by awareness and motivation than by the severity of PMS symptoms.

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