Effects of acute and chronic exercise on mental health, sexual functioning and hormone level in premenopausal women

Regular aerobic exercise can significantly improve physical and mental health. Exercise helps prevent and treat heart disease, hypertension and stroke. It also alleviates stress, anxiety and depression. Yet little research has been undertaken to access the impact of exercise on sexual functioning in women, even though sexual health is increasingly recognized as an important part of overall well-being and quality of life. Research involving men suggests regular aerobic exercise can enhance sexual desire, frequency and satisfaction. Amanda LaMarre is investigating how short-term and regular aerobic exercise affects sexual arousal and functioning in women, with a focus on physical, hormonal and psychological changes created by exercise. The results could help women with satisfactory sexual functioning and those experiencing sexual difficulties learn how to enhance their sexual, physical and emotional health.