With the arrival of the colder season, in addition to increased fatigue and more frequent colds, you may also notice a few changes in your menstrual cycle, from more pronounced PMS symptoms to heavier menstrual flow and more painful menstruation. How do these changes relate to the change of season?
Read about 5 ways cold weather and winter months can affect your menstrual cycle:
Cold winter months and lack of light can have a significant impact on your cycle. Limited sunlight reduces vitamin D levels in your body, which affects the endocrine system and thyroid function, which plays a key role in regulating hormones and the menstrual cycle in women. The resulting imbalance of certain hormones can cause irregularities in the cycle. (1)
Up to 75% of women of reproductive age report experiencing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome to varying degrees, including breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, mood swings, irritability, and sleep problems. (2) Overall lifestyle changes in autumn and winter months, increased stress, or lack of sunlight which reduces serotonin activity, all of these can contribute (not only) to our mood, increased irritability, or worsening sleep during the premenstrual period. (3)
Just as a lack of sunlight affects the balance of reproductive hormones and the overall course of the cycle, some women may also experience changes in blood flow intensity during the winter months. Menstruation may therefore be heavier than usual during this period.
As the temperature drops, the body prioritizes sending blood primarily to the brain, heart, and other vital organs. (4) Exposure to cold can thus disrupt blood circulation and prostaglandin production in the uterus, and your menstruation may be somewhat more painful. (5)
In winter, skin is often drier and more sensitive than during other seasons, which can also affect intimate areas. On cold days, when we layer more clothing due to the cold, you may experience increased moisture in intimate areas during menstruation. Therefore, it is important to choose breathable materials, such as cotton underwear, as well as menstrual products that do not contain synthetic substances, dyes, or artificial fragrances. Our pads and tampons made of 100% organic cotton ensure perfect breathability, so intimate areas do not get sweaty and irritation or chafing from artificial fibers is prevented.
Something to warm you up
Heat helps relax muscles, improve blood flow, and relieve tension. And that's something your body will surely appreciate, especially during colder months or whenever you experience muscle tension during your cycle. Our Cramp Days oil has warming effects thanks to its composition and also combines 7 local herbs known for their analgesic and soothing effects.
You can reach for the oil during moments of physical discomfort during your cycle (during ovulation, before or during menstruation), for regenerative massages when tired or after strenuous physical activity, or whenever you want to give your body a little extra care.
What else to read on FEMSPACE?
- 7 herbs to relieve pain during menstruation
- How to start tracking your menstrual cycle
- Menstrual red flags: 7 signals to watch out for
- 4 benefits of organic cotton menstrual products
- Blood clots during menstruation
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram to be the first to know about all the news on the Femspace blog or on the Femvie e-shop!
With love,
the Femvie team
Femvie products that can help you
We have selected products related to this topic that can support your health:
- 🌿 Organic pads — certified organic pads without chemicals
- 🌿 Organic tampons — organic tampons made from certified organic cotton
- 💊 Magnesium — helps alleviate cramps and tension before menstruation
- 🩹 Menstrual patches — natural relief from painful menstruation
- 📦 Carefree subscription — your organic menstrual products automatically every month
Frequently asked questions
How long does a normal period last?
A healthy period lasts 3 to 7 days. If you bleed longer or shorter repeatedly, consult a gynecologist.
Why is menstruation painful?
Menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins—substances that contract the uterine muscles. Magnesium, heat, exercise, or natural patches can help.
Are organic pads and tampons safer?
Yes. Organic cotton products do not contain pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals commonly found in conventional menstrual products.
What affects the regularity of the menstrual cycle?
Stress, diet, exercise, sleep, and hormonal balance—all affect the length and regularity of the cycle. Tracking your cycle can help you identify patterns and any deviations.
