Aerobic exercise program on the intensity of premenstrual syndrome

ABSTRACT

One of the psychosomatic problems related to female reproductive performance is premenstrual syndrome [PMS] and it may cause a decrease in educational status. Exercise as one of the treatment procedures can affect endorphins secretion and reduce PMS. The aim of this research was to determine the effect of aerobic exercise program on the intensity of PMS. This clinical trial study was performed on 80 nursing students in BSc degree with PMS. They were randomly divided into case and control groups. A questionnaire used to collect data for evaluating the prevalence and intensity of premenstrual symptoms. Control group followed an 8 week regular exercise program. The intensity of premenstrual syndrome in both groups at the beginning and end of study was determined and compared. There was no significant difference between two groups regarding the mean of premenstrual syndrome intensity at the baseline. The mean of intensity of premenstrual syndrome was decreased after exercise in case group [p<0.01], but no change was seen in control group. The results showed that aerobic exercise program can decrease the intensity of PMS. So the authorities should apply educational strategies to decrease PMS by programming aerobic exercise in order to support students psychiatric and somatic health