{"id":13845,"date":"2023-12-02T21:05:54","date_gmt":"2023-12-02T21:05:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/?p=13845"},"modified":"2023-12-04T20:26:14","modified_gmt":"2023-12-04T20:26:14","slug":"running-and-your-period","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/running-and-your-period\/","title":{"rendered":"Running and your period: Unlock the power of your menstrual cycle"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:192.1200750469%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:149.92679355783%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Running and your period should not be overlooked. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You know the feeling &ndash; you start your period and the last thing you feel like doing is going for a run or doing an intense workout. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your period doesn&rsquo;t have to stop you in your tracks &ndash; you can still exercise &ndash; it&rsquo;s just about adapting what you&rsquo;re doing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding and managing your menstrual cycle is crucial for optimising performance and wellbeing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only will you feel more empowered to tailor your training, you will be able to adapt your workouts to align with your body&rsquo;s natural rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a runner, you&rsquo;ll know that there are highs and lows on your running journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The same applies during the menstrual cycle &ndash; so by improving your understanding of it &ndash; you will enhance your running experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, working with your menstrual cycle (and not against it), is all about listening to your body and embracing its fluctuations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Marathon world record holder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbc.co.uk\/sport\/athletics\/30927245\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paula Radcliffe<\/a> famously spoke out about how her menstrual cycle has affected her performance over the years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She also said that &ldquo;Sport has not learned about periods&rdquo; &ndash; which I agree with!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Run with the flow of your cycle and you will have a more fulfilling running journey. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we&rsquo;ll look at each stage of the menstrual cycle, explore its impact on the body and provide tailored exercise recommendations for each stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We&rsquo;ll also look at some common conditions that can affect your menstrual cycle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&rsquo;s get going!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-533x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13854\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-533x1024.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-156x300.webp 156w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-768x1475.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-500x960.webp 500w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-625x1200.webp 625w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-150x288.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"533\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20533%201024'%3E%3Crect%20width='533'%20height='1024'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13854 eager-load\" title=\"\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period.webp\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-533x1024.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-533x1024.webp 533w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-156x300.webp 156w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-768x1475.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-500x960.webp 500w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-625x1200.webp 625w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-150x288.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period.webp 1000w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Running and your period: Understanding the menstrual cycle<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The menstrual cycle is a natural process that happens in a woman&rsquo;s body, typically lasting between 28 to 32 days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It involves various stages and hormonal changes, and its main goal is to prepare the body for the possibility of pregnancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It consists of four key stages &ndash; starting with menstruation on day 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Menstruation (Days 1-5)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ovulation (Days 15-17)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Luteal Phase (Days 18-28)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&rsquo;s break these stages down into simple terms. We&rsquo;ll look at what happens, the hormones involved and typical symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Menstruation (Days 1-5):<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What happens:<\/strong> If there is no pregnancy, the uterus sheds its lining (blood and tissue), which comes out through the vagina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hormones involved:<\/strong> Estrogen and progesterone levels are low during this time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Symptoms:<\/strong> Cramping, bloating, fatigue, mood swings, irritability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/does-chocolate-help-with-period-cramps\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10912\">Does chocolate help with period cramps? Everything you need to know<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Follicular Phase (Days 6-14):<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What happens:<\/strong> The body prepares an egg for release. The lining of the uterus begins to thicken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hormones involved:<\/strong> Estrogen levels rise, stimulating the growth of the egg and the uterine lining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Symptoms: <\/strong>Increased energy, improved mood, positive outlook, motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/should-you-work-out-on-your-period\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10067\">Should you work out on your period? 6 best exercises<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13857\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13857 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-3.webp\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ovulation (Days 15-17):<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What happens:<\/strong> The mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube, making it available for fertilisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hormones involved:<\/strong> There&rsquo;s a surge in luteinising hormone (LH), which triggers the release of the egg. Estrogen levels also peak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Symptoms: <\/strong>Increased body temperature, possible mild pelvic pain, heightened senses, increased libido.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/do-you-burn-more-calories-on-your-period\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"9384\">Do you burn more calories on your period? Your common questions answered<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Luteal Phase (Days 18-28):<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What happens:<\/strong> If the egg isn&rsquo;t fertilised, hormone levels drop. The uterine lining starts breaking down, preparing for the next menstrual cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hormones involved:<\/strong> Progesterone levels rise, maintaining the uterine lining. If no pregnancy occurs, both estrogen and progesterone levels eventually decrease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Symptoms: <\/strong>Breast tenderness, bloating, fatigue, mood swings, irritability, increased sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/when-does-period-weight-go-away\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"11010\">When does period weight go away? All your questions answered<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13855\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13855 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-1.webp\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Running and your period: Recommended exercises at each stage of your menstrual cycle<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some recommended exercises for each stage of the menstrual cycle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Menstruation (Days 1-5)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hormone levels are relatively low during this phase and energy levels may be impacted. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So you may want to stick with light to moderate-intensity exercise like brisk walking, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/benefits-of-yoga-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5449\">yoga<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/morning-stretches-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4877\">gentle stretching<\/a> can be beneficial. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Light jogging is also an option if you want to continue running &ndash; just do what feels comfortable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These activities help maintain mobility without overtaxing the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They also promote blood flow, alleviate cramps and provide a low impact way to stay active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/nutrition-and-running-performance\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"13811\">Fuelling your run: A female runner&rsquo;s guide to nutrition and running performance<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Follicular Phase (Days 6-14)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As estrogen levels rise, you&rsquo;ll likely have higher levels of energy during your follicular phase, making it a great time to do more intense training sessions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an optimal time for activities like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/5-workouts-for-a-faster-5k\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"850\">speed training<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/30-day-strength-training-plan-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5246\">strength training<\/a> and moderate-distance running. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, continue to listen to your body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Embrace the surge of energy to push boundaries and build endurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/running-on-a-busy-schedule\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"13799\">Running on a busy schedule: 10 tips for time-strapped women<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ovulation (Days 15-17)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Levels of estrogen and testosterone are at their peak during ovulation, making it a great time for endurance activities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may want to continue with intense workouts like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/hiit-workouts-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2483\">high-intensity interval training (HIIT)<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/hill-running-workouts-that-increase-speed-and-power\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4161\">hill workouts<\/a> to capitalise on the heightened energy levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just remember to be attentive to the body&rsquo;s signals and adjust the intensity accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/running-through-the-decades\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"13715\">Running through the decades: What to expect in your 20s, 30s and 40s as a female runner<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Luteal Phase (Days 18-28)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Progesterone levels rise during this phase, which may potentially lead to increased fatigue and muscle soreness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Focus on maintaining a balance between activity and recovery during this phase. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Opt for activities like easy runs, cycling, swimming and flexibility exercises like yoga and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/pilates-exercises-for-runners\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"7941\">Pilates<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Focusing on lower-intensity activities during the luteal phase will help to manage fatigue and support recovery and the body&rsquo;s needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/how-to-create-the-perfect-training-plan\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"13735\">Your step-by-step guide to create the perfect training plan<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13856\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-683x1024.webp\" alt=\"running and your period\" class=\"wp-image-13856 lazyload\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-683x1024.webp 683w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-200x300.webp 200w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-768x1152.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-640x960.webp 640w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-720x1080.webp 720w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-800x1200.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2-150x225.webp 150w, https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2.webp 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 48px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/running-and-your-period-2.webp\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Running and your period: Conditions that can impact the menstrual cycle<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s worth noting that several conditions can impact the menstrual cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These can lead to irregularities or disruptions in the normal menstrual and hormonal processes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s important to note that these conditions can vary in severity and their impact on the menstrual cycle may differ among individuals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you experience persistent irregularities, excessive pain or changes in your menstrual cycle, then it&rsquo;s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough check-up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explain your symptoms in detail and always ask for a second opinion if you&rsquo;re not getting the answers you need from your doctor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some common problems associated with the menstrual cycle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it? <\/strong>PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is characterised by the presence of cysts on the ovaries, irregular periods and high levels of androgens (male hormones).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle:<\/strong> PCOS often leads to irregular or absent menstrual periods, as well as changes in menstrual flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Endometriosis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-is-an-endometriosis-flare-up\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10358\">Endometriosis<\/a> occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause pain, inflammation and the formation of adhesions (scar tissue). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle:<\/strong> Endometriosis can result in heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, irregular periods, chronic pelvic pain as well as a whole host of other symptoms. Painful menstruation, known as dysmenorrhea, is also a common symptom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Uterine fibroids<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They can vary in size and location within the uterus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle:<\/strong> Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods and irregular menstrual cycles. In some cases, they may lead to pelvic pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Thyroid disorders<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> Conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disrupt hormonal balance in the body.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle:<\/strong> Thyroid disorders can lead to irregular periods, changes in menstrual flow, and fertility issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Eating disorders<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> Disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia can affect overall health, including hormonal regulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle:<\/strong> Irregular or absent menstrual periods, known as amenorrhea, can occur due to nutritional deficiencies and hormonal imbalances associated with eating disorders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stress<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> High levels of stress, whether physical or emotional, can impact the body&rsquo;s hormonal balance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle: <\/strong>Stress can lead to irregular periods, missed periods or changes in menstrual flow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is it?<\/strong> PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How it impacts the menstrual cycle: <\/strong>PID can lead to pelvic pain, and in some cases, it may cause irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/what-is-an-endometriosis-flare-up\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"10358\">What is an endometriosis flare up? Tips for exercising with endo<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Running and your period should not be overlooked. You know the feeling &ndash; you start your period and the last thing you feel like doing is going for a run or doing an intense workout. Your period doesn&rsquo;t have to stop you in your tracks &ndash; you can still exercise &ndash; it&rsquo;s just about adapting &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13858,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[301],"tags":[318],"mv":{"thumbnail_id":13858,"thumbnail_uri":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/blog-post-168-300x300.png"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13845"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13845"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13845\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13871,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13845\/revisions\/13871"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13858"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13845"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13845"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.runwithcaroline.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13845"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}