Tips for Dealing with your Period in the Summer

Surviving Your Summer Period with Comfort and Confidence

The warm embrace of summer brings not only the promise of sun-soaked days but also the unique challenge of navigating your menstrual cycle during the scorching heat.

As the temperature rises, dealing with your period can become a bit more tricky, but fear not!

In our comprehensive guide, we will explore how best to manage your menstrual cycle during the summer months, offering insights, advice and top tips to ensure you stay comfortable and confident.

Can Hot Weather Affect Your Period?

Yes, hot weather can affect your period.  The menstrual cycle, a natural and essential aspect of a woman's reproductive health, is influenced by various factors, including hormonal fluctuations.

As the summer heat sets in, women may experience unique challenges related to hot weather and periods. These challenges can range from chafing from sweaty pads, to water retention. Or feeling tired and fed up from coping with painful periods in hot weather.

1. Hormone Fluctuations and the Summer Double Whammy

The menstrual cycle is intricately tied to hormonal changes, and one key player is the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

During the summer months, the rising temperatures can lead to an increase in stress levels, creating a double whammy for your hormonal balance. Stress can disrupt FSH and other hormone levels, potentially causing irregularities in your menstrual cycle.

To counteract this, it becomes crucial to manage stress through relaxation techniques, mindful practices, and adequate self-care.

By addressing stress, you can mitigate the impact of hormonal fluctuations on your period and enhance your overall well-being during the summer.

2. Dealing with Water Retention and Bloating

Hot weather often exacerbates feelings of bloating and water retention, common period symptoms that can be particularly challenging during the summer months. Staying hydrated is a key strategy to combat these discomforts. Adequate water intake not only helps flush out toxins but also supports your body in managing water balance.

Consider incorporating refreshing herbal teas into your routine, providing an additional layer of hydration while offering a soothing effect. Hydration is a powerful tool to alleviate period-related symptoms and ensure you feel your best, even in the heat of summer.

3. Period Products for Summer: Menstrual Cups and More

Choosing the right period product is essential for a comfortable and confident summer experience. While traditional sanitary pads have long been a go-to option, consider exploring the benefits of a menstrual cup. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and offer reliable protection without the discomfort associated with traditional pads.

Alternatively, period pants can also be used if internal protection isn't for you, or when changing pads may not be convenient. Reusable period products are safe too, with low risk of toxic shock syndrome.

"Only ordered from Cheeky Wipes because my first order with another company was going to be delayed. I thought I'd keep the delayed swimsuit, once received, as a spare, but have decided to send it back and get a refund as the Cheeky Wipes swim suit is a lot nicer and if I need a spare, I'd rather get exactly the same swimsuit from Cheeky Wipes." Trustpilot Review

4. Coping with Painful Periods in Hot Weather

Painful periods, also known as dysmenorrhea, can be exacerbated by the heat of summer. Combating this discomfort requires a multifaceted approach.

A hot water bottle is brilliant to alleviate cramps in winter but may be just too much in summer. Instead, look to over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofuen.

Top Tips for Managing Your Period in the Summer Heat

Now that we've explored the unique challenges of dealing with your period during the summer, let's look at how you thrive, not just survive during these warm months. Here's our top tips for dealing with your period in summer:

1. Stay Hydrated
2. Choose The Right Period Products
3. Manage Stress
4. Embrace Period Proof Swimwear
5. Monitor Your Hormonal Health
6. Stay Chilled
7. Plan Ahead

Stay Hydrated

As mentioned earlier, adequate hydration is key. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, and consider incorporating hydrating foods into your diet, such as watermelon and cucumber.

Choose the Right Period Products

Experiment with various period products to find what works best for you. Whether it's menstrual cups, breathable pads, or period-proof swimwear, selecting the right product can make a significant difference in your summer experience.

Manage Stress

Implement stress-reducing practices into your routine, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Managing stress not only benefits your mental health but also contributes to a more regular menstrual cycle.

Embrace Period-Proof Swimwear

Even on your period, you can still enjoy the beach or pool without worries by investing in period-proof swimwear. These innovative swimsuits provide discreet protection, allowing you to stay active and enjoy water activities during your period.

"Bought a swim suit for my daughter, she is very pleased with it, so much so I bought one for my other daughter . It looks elegant and fits well." Trustpilot Review

Monitor Your Hormonal Health

Pay attention to your body's signals and track your menstrual cycle. This awareness can help you identify patterns and anticipate changes, allowing for better preparation and management of period symptoms.

Stay chilled

Combat the summer heat by incorporating cooling opportunities into your routine. This could include applying a cold Cheeky Wipes compress, taking cool showers, or simply resting in a shaded area when possible.

Plan Ahead

Be proactive in managing your period by planning ahead. Keep a period kit with essential supplies in your bag, and familiarize yourself with restroom locations when out and about.

Managing your period during the summer doesn't have to be a daunting task. Following our top tips can hopefully help you navigate the summer heat with confidence.

Recommended Period Swimwear:

Period Bikini Bottoms £19.99 View Product Trustpilot

Period Swimmers - Period Swimming Costume £39.99 View Product Trustpilot

If you enjoyed reading this article, you may also enjoy these:

How to Feel More Confident on Your Period

How to Manage Heavy Periods

About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, internal period protection was no longer suitable for her and she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants and reusable incontinence products.

The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.