Fooling Mother Nature is not easy, but we keep trying. It’s actually true that menstrual symptoms seem to get worse in the summer. We all love those carefree days, but if you have your period, it won’t be all fun in the sun. Let’s take a look at best managing menstrual symptoms in hot weather.
Are Menstrual Symptoms Worse in Hot Weather?
You already knew that hormones are not always your friend, and that is especially true in hot weather. Our menstrual cycle can be affected by hormones, sunlight, and the Vitamin D we derive from the sun. It causes higher ovarian activity making our cycles shorter. Consequently, our period comes more frequently and it lasts longer.
In addition, how our lives change during the summer also has an effect on our hormones. Our sleep schedule can become inconsistent, our diet may change in the warm weather, and we may drink more alcohol when it’s hot. Even our diet can change, and not for the better.
If that weren’t enough, hormones affect our body temperature. As progesterone increases, our body temperature also increases during the luteal phase of our cycle. Mix that with the heat, and you have one unhappy sweltering person.
Most women suffer from mood changes during their period. Now consider the hot days and nights and finding it hard to sleep which makes you more irritable than normal.
You wouldn’t wish yourself on your worst enemy.
Tips for Managing Menstrual Symptoms in Hot Weather
Now that you acknowledge Mother Nature has the upper hand, there are some strategies to get you through the hottest of summers.
Stay Hydrated
If you allow yourself to get dehydrated by not drinking enough water every day, you are susceptible to bloating, headaches, fatigue and yes, cramps. When you are dehydrated, your muscles cramp up including your uterine muscles causing the worst kind of cramps.
Keep Your Body Cool
Only wear loose cotton rich and breathable clothing and underwear. Avoid tight fitting jeans or tops.
Don’t Leave Home Without Them
We are talking about extra tampons and pads. Have extras in your purse or car for emergencies.
Do Some Exercise
Yes, moving around can help, however, it’s also important to not overdo it.
Tips for Managing PMS Symptoms
Unfortunately, you are going to get those too.
- Drink lots of water.
- Avoid processed food and salt.
- Change personal hygiene products frequently.
- Don’t remain in wet clothing like bathing suits. Yeast infections can become rampant in the heat and humidity so change into dry cotton underwear as soon as possible.
- Eat a balanced diet with enough fiber.
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
It’s possible to get through the hot summer heat with a little forethought and planning.
Contact Triangle Premier Women’s Health at (919) 934-3015 if you are having a hard time with severe menstrual symptoms during the hot weather.
Sources:
Is PMS Worse in the Summer? – Mt. Auburn OB/Gyn (mtauburnobgyn.com)
Period pain – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Period cramps during summer: Everything you need to know (nuawoman.com)