"Yes. Your exercise regime and intensity has a direct effect on your menses and can cause the flow to be heavy or scanty," informs Dr. Reshma Rafi, Gynaecologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai.

How?

If you haven't exercised at all and decide to start a regime out of the blue, then it puts pressure on the capillaries, which contract and result in heavy bleeding and an early period.

"And it is vice versa, if you have been into strenuous exercise for a long period of time. That is because extensive exercise leads to anovulation. It can also result in amenorrhea. This is more common in athletes." says Dr. Rafi.

Gym, Yoga or Aerobics?

"Any form of light exercise done in moderation won't have any effect on your menses," says Dr. Dhananjay More.

However, avoid doing any exercise that compresses or puts pressure on your abdomen.

Avoid these exercises in the first three days of your period.

• Stomach crunches
• Jogging
• Running
• Sit ups
• Weight training
• Complex yoga poses

"If you are into aerobics, limit your routine to walking and stretching. Stretching relaxes your internal organs, which in turn helps ease menstrual cramps to an extent," says Vidya, fitness instructor, Talwalkars.

Gymming, especially on the first two days, is not at all advisable. "It also depends upon individuals. If you have excessive cramps or a heavy flow, then you will be advised to rest for two days," says Vidya.

If you do not intend to miss even a day of exercise, then ask your instructor to plan a lighter workout routine.

"No exercises per se will completely relieve menstrual cramps. Starting a fitness regime during your periods is definitely not a good idea. In fact, avoid yoga for the first two days," says Ashrafi Baker, Yoga Coordinator, The Yoga Institute, Mumbai.

If you have been practising yoga, avoid advanced poses for the first two days. But, you can do stretches along with pranayam.

Pranayam or breathing exercises help you relax and detract your mind from the pain. It helps oxygen supply and better functioning of the internal organs.

Simply put, avoid inverted poses, abdominal strengtheners and holding any pose for an extended period of time.

Swim to Good Health?

"Swimming is a complete workout for your body and is relaxing too. However, if your flow is heavy on the initial days, it is better to avoid swimming. This is to avoid contaminating the pool. But if the flow is normal, swimming is absolutely fine. Just remember to use a tampon and change it immediately after swimming," says Dr. Rafi.

All said and done, exercising not only helps tone your body but, also builds your stamina and strengthens your immune system.

Although doctors and fitness instructors advise you to avoid exerting yourself during your monthlies, it is basically dependant on your personal comfort level.

If you feel any discomfort or observe any abnormality in the flow, stop the workouts and consult your gynaecologist.