DOES EXERCISE HABIT AFFECT CENTRAL SENSITIZATION AND PREMENSTRUAL SYMPTOMS IN ADULT WOMEN? NON-EXERCISING VERSUS (IR)REGULAR-EXERCISING

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate central sensitization (CS) and premenstrual symptoms in adult women based on exercise habits. Method: A hundred- two adult women (mean age of 25.9 (8) years) were included in the study. The participants were divided into three groups based on exercise habits: the non-exercising group (NG), the irregular-exercising group (IG), and the regular-exercising group (RG). The CS-related and CS positivity was assessed using the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI-A and CSI-B). Premenstrual symptom severity was determined with the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PSS). Results: Sociodemographic and menstrual cycle characteristics were comparable among the groups (p>0.05). There was a significant difference in the CSI-A (p<0.001), the CSI-B (p=0.023) and CS positivity (p<0.001) among the groups. The CSI-A was higher in the NG compared to the RG (p<0.001) and IG (p=0.001). The CSI-B was higher in NG compared to the RG (P=0.002). CS positivity was common in NG (67.6%) compared to IG (23.7%) and RG (26.7%). The median PSS total score was lowest in RG (120.5) while no significant differences were found in PSS total score (p=0.375) or PMS positivity (p=0.624) among the three groups. PSS total score correlated to CSI-A (p=0.001, r=0.334) and menstrual pain severity (p=0.002, r=0.310). The CSI-A and PSS scores are similar in terms of the phase of the menstrual cycle, and use of the medication for menstrual pain (p>0.05). Conclusion: Premenstrual symptom severity is associated with CS symptoms and menstrual pain in adult women. Adopting an exercise habit may be a protective approach that reduces symptoms associated with CS and improves premenstrual symptoms.