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According to a survey carried out for Intimina on the way women perceive their periods and how they experience them, the cold would have a relatively unknown impact. In winter, the pain would be more pronounced in those who suffer with each cycle.
How do women really feel during their periods and what factors can affect their well-being? The question, which deserved to be asked, is at the center of a survey carried out by the brand of intimate care Intimidated 5083 women aged 18-45 in France, UK, USA, Spain and Italy.
More painful periods depending on the season for 30% of women
Thus, according to the responses collected, menstruation is accompanied by a variety of symptoms: 59% of those questioned suffer from bloating and gas, 45% experience migraines and 40% experience anxiety 35% suffer from diarrhea and nausea and 33% discomfort in the bladder or rectum. And 23% have sensitive skin.
But if these symptoms are rather well known, a more original fact stands out: that of a difference in perception, depending on the season and the cold felt. Thus, to the question is that the winter season can affect the menstrual cycle, 30% of the respondents confirm it by saying that their periods are more painful, 17%, announce a more irregular cycle and for 14%, it lasts longer, while for 9%, it lasts less.
Periods more painful in the cold: possible reasons
This state of different and more painful menstruation during the winter season would not only be the order of feeling. According to gynecologist Dr Susannah Unsworth, spokesperson for the brand, there are currently several explanations that can explain this phenomenon. As far as pain is concerned, the doctor suggests two possibilities:
“One of the theories being that the drop in temperatures would lead to constriction of blood vessels which could increase pain. Other theories include that in the winter we are less active and spend more time indoors, which can lead to a lower mood and a worsening of pain perception.”
Regarding the regularity of periods (more or less long) in winter, again, the professional has a theory:
“A study published in 2010 suggests that the most important factor is related to sunlight. Reduced sun exposure has an impact on hormone production. This can lead to reduced levels of FSH production, leading to less regular ovulation and increased cycle length. It can also impact thyroid hormone production, which lowers metabolism and, in turn, affects cycle length as well. It may also be a consequence of reduced vitamin D production which influences hormone response.”
So many reasons which should on the one hand commit the medical profession to invest even better in the female cycle, to better understand what women experience season after season.