Heat and Your Menstrual Cycle: How the Summer Heat Impacts Your Period
At Cheyenne OBGYN, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle during the summer months. One thing that can interfere with your cycle is the hot temperatures outside and heat stress. It is critical to understand your menstrual cycle and how outside factors, like the heat, can affect your body.
The Menstrual Cycle: An Overview
The time between the first day of one period and the first day of the next is called the menstrual cycle. There are four main phases in a cycle: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. While it can vary from person to person, the typical length of a menstrual cycle is 28-29 days. The menstrual cycle begins when menstruation begins, meaning that you are shedding the uterus lining.
How Heat Affects the Menstrual Cycle:
While it may not seem like it, the heat can impact your menstrual cycle in several ways.
- Hormonal balance
If you suffer from heat stress, this can throw off your hormonal balance. Your hormone levels help regulate your period and keep your cycle on track. Heat stress can lead to heavier bleeding, irregular periods and more pain.
- Dehydration
If you are not staying hydrated in hot temperatures, dehydration can lead to your reproductive system to produce less mucus in the cervix. This can lead to decreased fertility as it is hard for sperm to reach the egg with less cervical mucus.
- New Locations
Your period can also be impacted when moving to different locations with different temperatures and elevations. If you are in a place that is hotter than normal, your body might have a difficult time adjusting.
- Changes in Seasons
During the summer months and heat, periods may become more frequent or lengthy than normal. The weather outside dictates your physical activity, which dictates your period flood overall.
Tips for Managing Heat and the Menstrual Cycle:
If you are prone to overheating during the summer, there are measures you can take to help yourself and your menstrual cycle. Staying cool as much as possible is important. Use fans, wear breathable clothes, and drink plenty of water when the temperature is hot.
If you experience overheating or hot flashes, there are some self-care strategies you can take to help prevent health scares. Taking cold showers and using ice packs are great options to cool down your body quickly.
When to Seek Medical Advice:
If there are ongoing concerns you have regarding your menstrual cycle, make an appointment with your OBGYN. Never feel afraid to reach out to your local clinics if you notice changes in your cycle, pain, or any new complications. Remember, your health is important. Take care of your body so you stay regulated and healthy during the summer.