Premenstrual Syndrome and Exercise: A Narrative Review Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) involves physical and emotional symptoms linked to hormonal fluctuations. Recent research highlights the role of heavy metals and gut microbiome imbalances in worsening these symptoms. Lifestyle changes, microbiome-targeted therapies, and toxin reduction show promise in effective PMS management.
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Divine Aleru
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was reviewed?
This narrative review examines the connection between Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and exercise. It explores the potential role of exercise in mitigating PMS symptoms and evaluates existing studies to understand how physical activity might alleviate both the physical and psychological impacts of PMS. The review also critiques the methodology of current research and emphasizes the need for further studies to refine exercise interventions for PMS management.
Who was reviewed?
The review targets women who experience PMS, particularly those suffering from physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms that impact their quality of life. The study highlights the importance of understanding how exercise may serve as a complementary treatment for PMS. The aim is to improve the health outcomes and daily functioning of affected women.
What were the most important findings?
The review identifies key findings regarding the positive effects of exercise on PMS symptoms. PMS symptoms, which include fatigue, mood swings, bloating, and irritability, significantly impair women’s daily activities. The review suggests that exercise, especially aerobic and resistance exercises, can reduce these symptoms, improving both physical and psychological well-being. Regular physical activity helps decrease fatigue, relieve pain (including breast tenderness), and improve mood by regulating hormonal fluctuations. Studies reviewed show that exercise enhances estrogen and progesterone levels and promotes endorphin release, which further alleviates pain and stress.
Exercise improves overall well-being by stimulating the release of neurochemicals like endorphins, which play a crucial role in mood enhancement and pain reduction. Furthermore, exercise reduces the impact of PMS on daily life, including work performance and social engagement. However, the review highlights the inconsistency across studies regarding the optimal exercise prescription for PMS. It calls for more detailed research to determine the best exercise duration, intensity, and frequency needed to achieve maximum benefit.
What are the greatest implications of this review?
This review suggests that exercise is a cost-effective, accessible, and powerful non-pharmacological approach to managing PMS. It encourages clinicians to incorporate exercise recommendations into treatment plans, considering the physical and psychological benefits it offers. Regular physical activity can serve as a complementary treatment alongside pharmacological options, especially for women seeking a holistic management approach. The review also stresses the importance of personalized exercise prescriptions tailored to individual needs and symptom profiles. As research on exercise and PMS continues to evolve, clearer guidelines will emerge, allowing healthcare providers to better support women with PMS through structured exercise programs.