Managing period pain while making the most of summer

Summer is a time for holidays, festivals, picnics, beach days and making memories with your loved ones. But if your period arrives at the same time, it can make it difficult to enjoy everything you’ve planned.

If you’ve ever wondered why period symptoms can suddenly feel overwhelming during the heat, you’re not alone. Higher temperatures force your body to work harder to remain cool, and when you throw hormonal changes into the mix at the same time, the added strain can leave you feeling more uncomfortable than usual. (1)

Although warmer weather doesn’t directly cause more painful periods, these added physical demands may make periods feel more uncomfortable overall, making it challenging to enjoy all that summer has to offer. (2)

Planning ahead for your period

The good news is that a little preparation can help you stay comfortable during those warm, summer months. (3) There are plenty of free period-tracking apps available to download that can help you predict when your next period is due. (5)

Understanding when your period is going to arrive can make you feel more in control, helping you to enjoy your summer plans with more confidence and fewer unexpected surprises. (4)

Stay hydrated

During the summer months, hot weather can increase your risk of dehydration, which may make period symptoms such as cramping, fatigue and discomfort feel worse, for some people. Stay hydrated to help you feel your best. (7)

Wear comfortable clothing

What you wear can have a big impact on how comfortable you feel during your period. Choose loose-fitting, breathable cotton clothing to promote airflow and reduce moisture build-up, helping to prevent irritation. (8)

Knowing when to rest

Rest is essential in allowing your body to recharge. During your period in the summer months, fatigue and the risk of dehydration can become more noticeable, while warmer nights make getting a good night’s rest even harder. (10)

In today’s society, enduring discomfort is often mistaken for courage. Women are frequently expected to carry on as normal, despite the physical toll that cramps, fatigue and hormonal changes can take on your body. Giving yourself permission to rest is not a sign on weakness – it is an essential part of supporting your body’s recovery and wellbeing.(10)

Pain relief

There are plenty of effective ways to deal with period pain in the warmer months. Having a remedy can help stop discomfort from progressing and interfering with your daily routine. (11)

Applying heat is an effective way to reduce cramps. Warm baths and showers relax the muscles in the uterus, while a hot water bottle or a heat pad can help reduce pain signals and improve blood circulation. (11)

Giving your lower abdomen a gentle massage can help relieve cramps by reducing muscle tension. If you need extra support, over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can be effective in easing discomfort. Always read and follow the instructions on the packaging before use. (11)

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