Can winter disrupt your periods?

Are you elated as winter has arrived? But, remember that it may turn into a nightmare for women. This is so because not only your mood but also your periods can get messed up during those chilly days. Yes, that’s absolutely right!

Winter is cold, dark, and it can also be annoying as you get sick more easily. There are mood swings. And just in case all that wasn’t bad enough, it seems the winter months can create havoc on your periods too. No, we are not kidding here! Winter can impact your menstrual cycle. Thus, periods can make you panic even more during the colder days.

Why may your periods worsen during winters?

• Reduced ovarian activity

Seasonal changes can take a toll on your menstrual cycles. Yes, this might be news to you, right? According to a previous study, during winter, women have increased hormone secretion and shorter cycles by 0.9 days in the summer month when compared with winter. Ovarian activity is greater in summer when compared to winter. Thus, women may encounter problems related to their periods.

• PMS worsens

Women must know that their premenstrual symptoms (PMSing) will worsen during the colder months. During those chilly days, women end up spending more time indoors, moving less and eating more. These things can mess up your menstrual cycles and have a negative impact on premenstrual symptoms.

How can these changes in periods be managed?

When the climate outside is nice, it is natural to spend a lot of time outside. Various studies have pointed out that women who are more active had much more regular and manageable cycles than those who failed to exercise and stay fit. Just like the way stress impacts your menstrual cycle, even seasonal change can do so. Women, you do not need to live in fear during winter.

So, if there is heavy flow, worsening of PMSing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, bloating, abdominal pain, breast tenderness, and tiredness, just consult the doctor.

What more can you do?

• Remember to eat a well-balanced diet
• Workout regularly
• Maintain optimum weight
• Use a hot compress to manage period cramping and abdominal pain.

It will be imperative for you to take charge of your health and deal with period pain.