Global study links frequent exercise to reduced perimenopause symptoms

More than 1,800 respondents from 87 countries participated in a recent investigation examining the link between physical activity and perimenopause. The findings indicate that regular movement may alleviate a range of bothersome symptoms during this transitional phase preceding menopause.

Study methodology and scope

The research utilized data from users of the Flo app, spanning six continents. Participants completed an online survey categorizing their physical activity levels from "not physically active" to ">5 days a week." Symptom severity was assessed across somatic, psychological, and urogenital domains using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS).

To analyze the association between activity frequency and MRS scores, researchers employed multivariable linear regression models. Confounders were prespecified via a causal framework, including age, body mass index, smoking status, comorbidities, healthcare access, and the country-level Socio-Demographic Index.

Key findings on symptom relief

In unadjusted analysis, mean total MRS scores demonstrated a statistically significant inverse association with increasing physical activity frequency across all three symptom domains: urogenital, somatic, and urogenital. The study highlights physical activity as a relevant modifiable lifestyle intervention for managing perimenopause symptoms.

"Something that stood out to us was that the benefits of physical activity seemed to be strongest for psychological symptoms like low mood irritability and anxiety," said Dr. Liudmila Zhaunova, presenting author of the study and Director of Science at Flo Health. She noted that these symptoms impact daily life and that regular movement offers an accessible way to help.

Expert commentary and presentation

Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director of The Menopause Society, stated that while additional research is needed to fully understand the relationship, encouraging regular physical activity is a low-risk strategy. It may improve overall well-being during the menopause transition, particularly by reducing the burden of psychological symptoms.

Results will be presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting of The Menopause Society in San Diego, scheduled for October 20-24, 2026. The presentation is titled "Physical activity frequency and perimenopause symptom burden: Global insights from the Flo app."