Moderate Aerobic Exercise for Menstrual Symptoms
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines whether moderate aerobic exercise can help manage menstrual symptoms in women who do not regularly exercise. Researchers aim to determine if exercise reduces both physical and psychological symptoms related to the menstrual cycle and whether differences exist between women using hormonal birth control and those who are not. Suitable candidates include women with regular menstrual cycles who either do not use contraceptives or have used combined oral contraceptives for at least six months, and who lead a sedentary lifestyle with noticeable menstrual symptoms. Participants will track their symptoms and exercise habits while gradually increasing their physical activity over a few months. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding how exercise can improve menstrual health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but if you are using combined oral contraceptives, you must have been using them for at least the past 6 months. If you are not using hormonal contraceptives, you should not start using them during the trial.
What prior data suggests that moderate aerobic exercise is safe for managing menstrual symptoms?
Research has shown that moderate aerobic exercise is generally safe and manageable. One study found that women who exercised regularly experienced less menstrual pain than those who did not. Specifically, 42.5% of women who exercised reported pain, compared to 60% of those who did not exercise. Another review found that women who exercised at least five hours a week experienced fewer menstrual cycle symptoms. Regular aerobic activities, such as swimming, helped reduce both physical and emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These findings suggest that aerobic exercise is a safe way to manage menstrual symptoms.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Most treatments for menstrual symptoms, like hormonal contraceptives or pain relievers, focus on altering hormone levels or managing pain temporarily. However, moderate aerobic exercise is unique because it potentially addresses the root cause of menstrual discomfort by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation naturally. Researchers are excited because this approach not only avoids medication side effects but also promotes overall physical and mental health, offering a holistic solution to menstrual symptoms.
What evidence suggests that moderate aerobic exercise is effective for managing menstrual symptoms?
Research has shown that regular moderate exercise can help ease menstrual symptoms. Active individuals often experience less pain, tiredness, and drowsiness related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Studies have found that activities like walking or cycling for about 30 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week, can improve both physical and emotional symptoms. This trial will assess the effects of moderate aerobic exercise on menstrual symptoms in two groups: women who use hormonal contraceptives and those who do not. Regular moderate exercise might make menstrual cycles easier to handle for many women, regardless of hormonal birth control use.23678
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for premenopausal women with regular menstrual cycles who are not pregnant or trying to become pregnant, lead a sedentary lifestyle, and have self-reported menstrual symptoms. Participants can be using combined oral contraceptives for at least the past 6 months or not using any hormonal/non-hormonal contraceptives.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Observation
Participants maintain their usual sedentary activity habits for one menstrual cycle
Exercise Intervention
Participants engage in moderate aerobic exercise to meet 150 minutes per week for two menstrual cycles
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in menstrual symptoms and physical activity habits
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Moderate Aerobic Exercise
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Lead Sponsor