Effect of Yogic Asanas on Autonomic Functions Tests in Premenstrual Syndrome Medical Students

Background: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) affects a significant number of menstruating women, including medical students who face unique stressors. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is often disrupted in PMS, contributing to various symptoms. Yoga, particularly yogic asanas, may offer a non-pharmacological intervention to improve autonomic function and alleviate PMS symptoms. Objective: To evaluate the effect of yogic asanas on autonomic function tests and PMS symptoms in medical students. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 60 medical students diagnosed with PMS, randomly assigned to an intervention group (yoga) or a control group. The yoga intervention included 60-minute sessions three times a week for 8 weeks. Autonomic function was assessed using heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure variability (BPV). PMS symptoms and quality of life were measured using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) and WHOQOL-BREF scale. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in HRV (SDNN and RMSSD), reductions in BPV, and a notable decrease in PMS symptom severity compared to the control group. Quality of life scores also improved significantly in the intervention group. Conclusion: A structured yoga intervention effectively enhances autonomic function and reduces PMS symptoms in medical students. Integrating yoga into wellness programs could provide a valuable, non-pharmacological approach for managing PMS and improving overall quality of life.