Across half of the world, the sweatiest summer of all time is in full swing. Temperatures of above 40 degrees are raging, making period rage and pain a little more complex. There’s nothing like a heavy, painful period at any point – but periods during summer? For some folks, it can be a whole new ballgame. With many of the Modibodi family across the globe getting more than their fair share of heat, we thought it would be a good idea to give you the lowdown on how hot weather can affect your period.
Why can hot weather make your symptoms worse?
Well, straight off the bat, hot weather is renowned for making certain body complaints including swelling and pain a little worse. So how can the heat affect the different symptoms of your period?
Bloating
Did you know that the heat can not only make bloating worse, but it can also cause bloating? This means when it comes to period bloating, you might experience an unfortunate double whammy during summer. According to the experts, our bodies hold onto water when we’re dehydrated, which can often cause bloating. As well as this, certain hormones that pop up at the beginning of your bleed can make you even more prone to dehydration.
Tiredness
If you usually feel tired and out of it during your period, the heat could make it worse. During long summer days, our bodies produce less melatonin which is the hormone responsible for sleep. As well as this, during our periods, our bodies use up a lot more energy to keep things moving. Because our bodies are working harder to cool down, it’s completely natural to feel super tired during summer, especially when you’re on your period.
Headaches
Hot summer days can be pains for headaches – and unfortunately when you’re menstruating, it might feel even worse. Our blood vessels swell in hot weather, which can lead to migraines and worse headaches.
Cramps
Cramps are never fun – but in the summer heat, you might find they’re even worse. When temperatures rise, you’re more at risk of heat exhaustion which can make you feel queasy, like you have no appetite and like your cramps are far worse. Unfortunately, for anyone experiencing period cramps, the sizzling heat can make symptoms worse – especially when dehydration comes into play.
Why can hot weather make my period come early?
While you might be close and comfy with your cycle at this point, the truth is that summer can throw it all off. Sometimes, the heat might make your period come a little early, and it might even make you bleed for longer too. Now, while there’s no concrete science on the reason behind this one just yet, a lot of our menstruating sisters have experienced their cycles speeding up during the summer. We’re also armed with a little science that suggests why it could be happening.The experts say that this could be happening because of the combination of stress and fatigue, which generally is a little more ramped up during summer and heatwaves. We know that stress and fatigue can both have very real impacts on the induction of our periods, so it makes sense that you might find your period pops up a little earlier in the heat.
So while planning your period might be a little trickier during the summer, the great news is that there’s a whole new realm of swimwear that will have your back in case life throws you unexpectedly into the deep end a little early. Our Period Swimwear is designed to be absorbent, comfortable and secure, meaning your fun in the sun won’t be hindered by a pesky surprise. Stay comfortable and leak-free in them as long as you please – these swimmers were just made for endless summers.
How can I have a stress-free summer period?
Knowledge is power – so now you know the ins and outs of how summer can affect your period, you’ll be able to stay savvy about it. You’ll find keeping hydrated with lots of water and other hydrating liquids is a wonderful first port of call, especially if you’re already experiencing symptoms or coming up to your period.Keeping up your regular intake of meals and making sure you get enough nutrients is also a great way to ensure you’re in optimum health during the heat.
Other things that can help can include steering clear of heavy-boozy benders if possible, wearing loose and free-flowing clothes, and stepping into the wonderful world of reusable period products if you haven’t already. With bundles of absorbent undies for every occasion, and our well-loved absorbent swimwear collection, you’ll love tackling summer with Modibodi. Forget feeling fearful about when your period will arrive – don our swimwear and enjoy your well-deserved fun in the sun!
