Physical activity for psychological and physical well-being in menstruating individuals: an integrative review.

In 30 seconds

This integrative review synthesised qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research on physical activity and psychological or physical well-being across the menstrual cycle. It included 55 studies with 13,856 participants; randomised controlled trials were the most common design (n = 31; 56.4%). Physical activity was generally associated with lower symptom burden and better well-being. Evidence was most consistent for reduced menstrual pain and somatic symptoms, particularly after mind-body approaches, while findings for premenstrual and emotional symptoms varied and evidence for quality of life, sleep, and daily functioning was more limited.

Key findings

• The review included 55 studies comprising 13,856 participants; 31 studies (56.4%) were randomised controlled trials.
• Physical activity was associated with reduced menstrual pain and somatic symptoms, with the most consistent evidence for mind-body approaches.
• Benefits for premenstrual and emotional symptoms were frequently reported, but findings were less consistent than for pain and somatic symptoms.
• Evidence concerning quality of life, sleep, and daily functioning was more limited.

Why it matters

The review brings together evidence that physical activity may support well-being across the menstrual cycle, while showing that confidence differs by outcome and exercise type. Its findings highlight menstrual pain and somatic symptoms as the outcomes with the clearest support, and caution against assuming that one exercise prescription or cycle-based schedule suits everyone.

What to keep in mind

Differences in exercise modalities, intervention characteristics, and outcome assessment limited direct comparisons. The review also identifies a need for more standardised and methodologically robust research.