Does aerobic exercise with lifestyle changes reduce PMS symptoms in college students?

Background: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a frequently occurring cyclical condition in young women, marked by a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms that interfere with academic performance and daily functioning. Non-drug interventions such as aerobic exercise and lifestyle modification are increasingly recognized as effective, low-cost, and safe strategies for symptom relief. Objective: The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in combination with lifestyle changes for reducing PMS symptoms among college-going female students. Methods: An experimental design was adopted with 60 participants aged 18–25 years, clinically diagnosed with moderate to severe PMS using a standardized PMS checklist. Students were randomly divided into two groups: Group A received an 8-week structured aerobic training program (30 minutes/day, 5 days/week) along with counselling on diet, sleep, and stress management. Group B (control group) received lifestyle counselling only. Assessments were carried out before and after the intervention using the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) and a quality of life scale. Results: Post-intervention findings revealed a significant reduction in PMS severity in Group A compared to Group B (p < 0.05). Group A showed notable improvements in mood disturbances, irritability, fatigue, and bloating, as well as enhanced quality of life and academic efficiency. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise, when combined with lifestyle modification, is effective in alleviating PMS symptoms among young women. Incorporating these non-pharmacological strategies into student health initiatives may provide a practical, sustainable solution for menstrual health and overall well-being.

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