Menstrual Cycle: The delicate balance of hormones in a woman’s body has a big impact on her menstrual cycle. Although many people associate irregular periods with stress or health problems, environmental variables like temperature, light exposure, or even moving to a new area may also have an impact on your menstrual cycle. Through dehydration, elevated physical stress, and disturbance of the thyroid and endocrine systems, these environmental stressors impact body function. Menstrual timing, bleeding intensity, and cycle duration have all been documented to be abnormal. However, these reasons are not well known.

Temporary changes in the timing, flow, or symptoms of periods may also result from these changes, which can also cause hormonal imbalances and affect sleep habits and mental health. Menstrual hygiene management is further impacted by these environmental changes, especially in disadvantaged groups. Women should thus pay attention to their menstruation. Dr. Sujata Uday Rajput, Consultant-Obetrician & Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune, discusses how environmental changes might disrupt women’s menstrual cycles in an interview with The Daily Jagran.

What Effects Do Changes in the Environment Have on Your Period?

Extreme heat or cold may cause the body to become stressed and disrupt its hormones. You may have lighter or delayed periods due to fatigue and dehydration brought on by hot weather. Mood swings and cramping might worsen in cold weather.

Traveling or changing time zones throws off your circadian rhythm, which is your biological clock. This halts the production of hormones, particularly progesterone and estrogen, which might result in irregular or nonexistent periods. According to research, women who live in polluted areas may have dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, or increased menstrual flow due to oxidative stress and inflammation.

Unusual sleep habits and environmental factors may have an impact on the hypothalamus, which regulates menstruation. Were you aware? This may delay ovulation or cause your cycle to become unpredictable.

You may eat or do various things while you’re moving. The intensity and frequency of your periods may also be impacted by sudden weight loss, growth, or dietary imbalance. Discuss these reasons with the doctor.

Menstrual health is crucial. Maintaining enough hydration, eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, whole grains, pulses, lentils, nuts, and seeds, and adhering to a regular sleep pattern are all essential. Even while traveling, make an effort to obtain eight hours of good sleep each day. To reduce tension and maintain composure, use relaxation methods like yoga or meditation. Keep track of your cycles and do at least 45 minutes of exercise each day to maintain hormonal balance. Talk to the doctor about any strange symptoms. Although brief abnormalities are normal, it is preferable to see a gynecologist if irregular periods continue for more than two months. To avoid any worrisome problems, it is best to take control of your reproductive health.