Drinking alcohol during periods is a topic we generally miss while talking about menstrual health. However, knowing how alcohol impacts your health during this period is critical to your general well-being. Let’s look at the link between alcohol intake and menstrual health. This includes why your cycle may be delayed, how alcohol and period cramps are interlinked, what to consume during your periods, and how drinking alcohol can affect fertility.
Why does my cycle get delayed?
Drinking alcohol during periods can upset your body’s delicate hormonal balance. High alcohol consumption can raise hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, and luteinizing hormones, resulting in hormonal imbalance and inconsistent menstrual cycles. “This interruption alters the consistency, time frame, and flow of your menstruation, perhaps causing delays”, says our expert Dr Sunita Sharma, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Infertility Specialist, Fortis Nagarbhavi, Bangalore.
Does alcohol help with cramps?
A lot of women believe that alcohol helps with their period cramps, but it doesn’t rather, it worsens them. Alcohol raises prostaglandin levels in the body. This causes uterine muscle contractions and worsens cramping. Dr Sharma says, “excessive alcohol intake can affect the body’s absorption of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. This impacts overall health and potentially worsens menstrual irregularities and pain.” Furthermore, alcohol-induced dehydration thickens menstrual fluids and blood, making it difficult to allow it to pass past the cervix and increasing pain.
What should I drink during my periods?
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol during periods. If you are looking for an alternative, flavoured sparkling water or mocktails can be a delightful and hydrating choice during social events. However, if you do drink alcohol, drink plenty of water to offset the dehydration effects. It’s also a good idea to avoid coffee, which can increase PMS symptoms. Hence, drink tea, sparkling water, or juice to make your periods a less painful experience.
Would drinking during periods affect my fertility?
Alcohol use has an adverse impact on the success of fertility therapies such as IVF and fertility medications. Alcohol may lower the likelihood of successful implantation and live birth, particularly when both parents are moderate to heavy drinkers. Furthermore, alcohol’s adverse impacts on sperm number and viability emphasize the significance of sobriety at this critical time.
It’s critical to understand that alcohol influences each woman uniquely depending on her genetic composition, age, family history of alcoholism, and overall health. When analyzing alcohol intake levels, consider prescription medications as well as the risk of diseases such as breast cancer and heart disease. While alcohol may appear to be a harmless enjoyment, one cannot underestimate the effects on menstrual health and fertility. Women may enhance their own health by limiting their alcohol use during their periods and choosing healthier options.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
