Can exercise affect your menstrual cycle?

Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but can it affect your menstrual cycle?

The short answer is yes, but it's not necessarily a bad thing. Let's explore how exercise can impact your menstrual cycle and what you can do to keep your cycle on track.

First, it's important to understand that the menstrual cycle is controlled by a delicate balance of hormones, and exercise can impact these hormones. Depending on the type and intensity of exercise, it can either stimulate or suppress the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

High-intensity exercise, such as running, can cause a temporary suppression of estrogen production. This can lead to a lighter or delayed period, or even cause you to skip a period altogether. However, this is generally not a cause for concern, as long as it is not a regular occurrence.

On the other hand, low-intensity exercise, such as yoga or walking, can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the severity of premenstrual symptoms. Exercise can also help manage conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause irregular periods.

It's important to note that excessive exercise or overtraining can have negative effects on the menstrual cycle, such as missed periods, irregular cycles, or even amenorrhea (the absence of periods). This is more common in athletes or women who engage in excessive exercise.

So, how can you exercise in a way that supports a healthy menstrual cycle?

The key is to find a balance between exercise and rest. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, and allow your body time to rest and recover. If you notice changes in your menstrual cycle or experience unusual symptoms, speak to your healthcare provider.