Impact of Physical Activity on Alleviating Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) poses significant challenges to the health of girls and women. Engaging in physical activity and sports has been identified as an effective and affordable way to alleviate PMS symptoms. This study aimed to review existing research and evaluate the impact of different sports on PMS. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across several databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, from 2010 to March 2024. Out of 1,009 articles, 20 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria.

The results indicated that various forms of exercise such as aerobic workouts, stretching, yoga, swimming, combined exercises, pelvic rocking, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) using spinning bikes effectively reduced PMS symptoms. Improvements were noted in both mental and physical aspects, including Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire (PMSQ) scores, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) parameters, weight loss, heart rate, blood pressure, and overall mood, as well as sleep quality.

The findings suggest that engaging in physical activities, especially aerobic exercise and yoga, can help alleviate both the physical and psychological symptoms linked to PMS. However, further research is needed to explore additional aspects of these effects.

Source: Ahmadi F, Khaleghi MM, Zar A. The therapeutic effect of different exercises on premenstrual syndrome (PMS): a systematic review. Comparative Exercise Physiology. 2025; 21(1):17-32. https://doi.org/10.1163/17552559-00001076.