There are plenty of tales passed down from generation to generation that claim a number of things regarding a woman’s menstrual cycle. They vary from culture to culture, with some parts of the world claiming a person should never walk barefoot during their period, as it’s said to worsen cramps, while other cultures believe that consuming any citrus fruit will shorten a cycle.
However, there is one particular belief that may be rooted in some factual evidence. It’s long been said that drinking cold water before or during your period can make cramps all the more painful, and there may very well be some truth to the sentiment. This aligns with Ayurvedic studies and traditional Chinese medicine, in which cold is thought to “shock” the body or disrupt circulation. But does the science support it?
Debunking The Cold Water Myth
It’s first and foremost important to note that period cramps are caused by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which trigger the uterus to contract. So, where does cold water come into this? Ayurvedic studies suggest that cold drinks can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the pelvic region, which in turn exacerbates menstrual cramps. It is instead recommended to intake warm water, ginger tea, and warm, cooked foods instead for better digestion and energetic flow.
However, there’s a lot of pushback to the theory. There is ultimately no strong scientific evidence proving that drinking cold water directly worsens menstrual cramps, as medical explanations note that when you drink something cold, your body warms it to core temperature long before it reaches the reproductive system. However, all of the anecdotal testimonies aren’t just out of nowhere. Anyone who feels worse after drinking a cold drink may be experiencing this due to bloating or digestion. Lots of cold drinks, like sodas, are high in sugar and caffeine, which are scientifically linked to inflammation or worsened cramps. Sugar increases prostaglandin production, while caffeine is known to constrict blood vessels and increase muscle tension. This most certainly can make cramps worse, though it’d be due to stimulants and not temperature.
Personal comfort, however, most certainly varies, and some studies have shown that women who often have cold hands and feet might be more prone to cramping caused by cold water. Ultimately, it’s important to listen to your body and what makes the most sense for you.
Cultural Period Myths That Are True
So what myths actually do hold scientific backing?
“Warmth Helps Period Pain”
A common belief in East Asian, African, Indigenous, and Latin cultures is that warm foods, teas, baths, and heat packs are widely encouraged during menstruation. This is most certainly scientifically supported, as heat increases blood flow and relaxes uterine muscles, which can reduce cramping and pain. In fact, clinical studies show heating pads can be as effective as painkillers for some people.
“Rest More During Your Period”
Now this is a belief we can all get behind. Many cultures have encouraged menstruating women to slow down, stay home, or avoid heavy labor since ancient times, and it remains a valid sentiment. Your estrogen and progesterone dropping during your period can cause fatigue, lower pain tolerance, and increased inflammation, so you’d be doing yourself a massive favor by laying low. Your body is working overtime, and rest can genuinely improve recovery and mood.
“What You Eat Can Affect Your Period”
Across various cultures, there are specific curated diets that often emphasize iron-rich foods, soups, broths, and herbal remedies during menstruation. There’s science behind this practice as well, as nutrition directly impacts your inflammation and prostaglandin production. Because of that, it’s important to prioritize meals with iron, magnesium, omega-3s, and hydration, as they can all reduce cramp severity and fatigue.
“Periods Are a Time of Heightened Sensitivity”
We all know periods can heighten emotional sensitivity, but it goes even further beyond that. The hormonal fluctuations your cycle brings on affect neurotransmitters and emotional processing, making your pain perception all the more heightened. This means that while you may typically tolerate getting your eyebrows waxed on any other given day, the sensation may be much worse when you’re bleeding. It’s best to take things easy during this window of time and avoid doing anything that may bring about discomfort.