Why Periods Seem Worse In Winter
Ever wondered why your period feels way more painful and longer lasting this time of year than the rest? You’re not alone – seasonal menstrual cycle irregularities is actually a thing.
It’s one thing feeling sad that summer is over, but for our menstrual cycles, the change of season and lack of sun can play a huge part in the frequency and pain of our periods.
So, why is my period worse? It’s thought that in colder conditions,blood vessels are compressed meaning blood flow has a narrower pathway to travel causing constricted vessels, leading to increased menstrual pains. Further to this, our hormonal balance changes in the wintertime which can enhance PMS, slowing down our thyroid and metabolism, leading to longer period cycles than any other time of year.
Whilst it’s easy in the colder months to want to curl-up with a hot water bottle on the sofa and stay put with TV distractions, the lack of movement can worsen the pain of your period. There are other known influences on period longevity and pain, such as diet, stress, sleep, exercise and travel.
GP and medical broadcaster Dr Sarah Jarvis told Belle About Town: “Different methods work for different women. However, the following may all help: Warmth – a hot water bottle or a warm bath, gentle massage, and exercise.”
If you have period pain, the last thing you may want to do is exercise. However, evidence suggests that women who do regular exercise throughout the month (anything from yoga to running or aerobics) may experience less severe period pain. But don’t try very high impact exercise while you’re in pain, as this may make your symptoms worse.
Painkillers, including paracetamol and anti-inflammatory tablets such as ibuprofen, can help ease symptoms.
Dr Jarvis adds: “Anti-inflammatory tablets on prescription from your doctor – mefenamic acid, which specifically blocks prostaglandins (the hormones that cause the womb muscles to contract) is widely used.
“Then there is Livia, a non-drug option which uses a portable device and small electrodes to deliver small electrical impulses to the part of the body they’re attached, and can release the body’s ‘feel good’ hormones, which can relieve pain. It’s thought that these electrical impulses interrupt pain signals breaking the pain cycle, helping to relax muscles and reduce painful spasms.
“In the longer term, there are many hormone treatments available from your doctor. These include the combined oral contraceptive pill, the IUS (a type of coil that releases a small amount of the hormone progesterone) and other hormone-based treatments for women with endometriosis.”
Always consult your GP or pharmacist before taking any new medicines.
