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Why do i feel weak on my period. Menstrual Fatigue: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management Strategies

Why do women feel tired during their periods. How can menstrual fatigue be alleviated. What are the underlying causes of extreme period-related exhaustion. When should you consult a doctor about period fatigue. What treatment options are available for severe menstrual symptoms.

Understanding the Physiology of Menstrual Fatigue

Menstrual fatigue is a common experience for many women during their periods. This overwhelming sense of tiredness can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. To better understand this phenomenon, it’s crucial to examine the physiological changes occurring during the menstrual cycle.

Hormonal Fluctuations and Energy Levels

During the second half of the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels peak and then rapidly decline. This hormonal shift is often responsible for the fatigue and sluggishness women experience during their periods. The continued decrease in estrogen levels throughout the menstrual phase can prolong this feeling of exhaustion.

Other Contributing Factors

While hormonal changes play a significant role, other factors can exacerbate menstrual fatigue:

  • Iron deficiency due to blood loss
  • Stress
  • Poor dietary habits
  • Inadequate sleep

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends more than 7 hours of sleep each night. Insufficient sleep can intensify the fatigue experienced during menstruation.

Recognizing Symptoms of Menstrual Fatigue

Identifying the symptoms of menstrual fatigue is crucial for effective management. Common signs include:

  • Excessive tiredness or sleepiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood swings
  • Decreased motivation
  • Physical weakness

Are these symptoms interfering with your daily life? If so, it may be time to explore management strategies or consult with a healthcare professional.

Effective Strategies to Combat Menstrual Fatigue

While the instinct to retreat to bed when experiencing menstrual fatigue is strong, this may not be the most effective approach. Instead, consider implementing these strategies:

Embrace Physical Activity

Counterintuitive as it may seem, engaging in physical activity can actually boost energy levels and improve mood during your period. How can you incorporate exercise into your routine? Consider these options:

  • Try a new workout with a friend for added motivation
  • Keep a fitness journal to track your activity and progress
  • Opt for low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming if you’re experiencing discomfort

Maintain a Balanced Diet

While cravings for salty and sweet treats may intensify during your period, focusing on nutritious foods is crucial. A balanced diet can help stabilize energy levels and alleviate fatigue. What should you include in your menstrual diet?

  • Iron-rich foods to combat potential deficiencies
  • Complex carbohydrates for sustained energy
  • Lean proteins to support muscle function
  • Fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins and minerals

Prioritize Hydration

Dehydration is a common contributor to fatigue. Ensuring adequate water intake can help maintain energy levels throughout your menstrual cycle. How much water should you drink? While individual needs vary, aim for at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, increasing this amount during your period if needed.

Exploring Medical Interventions for Menstrual Fatigue

When lifestyle changes prove insufficient, medical interventions may be necessary to manage menstrual fatigue effectively.

Hormonal Birth Control

Hormonal contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and potentially reduce the severity of symptoms, including fatigue. How does hormonal birth control affect menstrual fatigue? By stabilizing hormone levels throughout the cycle, these methods can minimize the drastic fluctuations that often contribute to fatigue. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any hormonal therapy.

Recognizing When to Seek Medical Attention

While some level of fatigue during menstruation is normal, extreme exhaustion or other severe symptoms may indicate an underlying condition. When should you consult a doctor about your menstrual fatigue?

  • If fatigue is severely impacting your daily life
  • If you experience heavy or prolonged bleeding
  • If you have severe pain accompanying your fatigue
  • If symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes

These symptoms could be indicative of conditions such as uterine fibroids or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). It’s important to note that uterine fibroids are surprisingly common, affecting 70% of women, with 80% of African American women developing fibroids by age 50.

Understanding Uterine Fibroids and Their Impact

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. While not all women with fibroids experience symptoms, those who do may face a range of challenges, including:

  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Prolonged periods
  • Pelvic pain and pressure
  • Frequent urination
  • Anemia (due to excessive blood loss)

How do these symptoms contribute to fatigue? The combination of heavy bleeding, potential anemia, and physical discomfort can lead to significant exhaustion, impacting a woman’s overall quality of life.

Treatment Options for Severe Menstrual Symptoms

For women experiencing severe menstrual symptoms that significantly impact their daily lives, several treatment options are available. These interventions aim to address the underlying causes of symptoms and improve quality of life.

Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation (Lap-RFA)

Lap-RFA is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat uterine fibroids. How does Lap-RFA work? This technique delivers heat directly into fibroid tissue, effectively destroying it and alleviating symptoms. Benefits of Lap-RFA include:

  • Ability to address fibroids in various locations
  • Potential relief from heavy periods and bloating
  • Relatively short recovery time (typically 4-5 days)

Intra-uterine Tissue Removal

This uterine-sparing procedure removes fibroids, polyps, and other intrauterine tissue. What makes this procedure unique? It’s typically performed as an outpatient procedure and is minimally invasive, utilizing the body’s natural openings for access.

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a brief, one-time procedure aimed at reducing or eliminating heavy menstrual bleeding. How is endometrial ablation performed? This minimally invasive technique removes the uterine lining, often resulting in significantly lighter periods or the cessation of menstruation altogether.

It’s important to note that while these procedures can be effective for many women, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as the desire for future pregnancies, the size and location of fibroids, and overall health status must be considered when determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Menstrual Fatigue

While medical interventions can be necessary in some cases, many women find relief through holistic approaches to managing menstrual fatigue. These strategies focus on overall well-being and can be used in conjunction with or as alternatives to medical treatments.

Stress Management Techniques

Stress can exacerbate menstrual symptoms, including fatigue. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate these effects. What are some effective stress management strategies?

  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Progressive muscle relaxation
  • Regular exercise
  • Adequate sleep hygiene

Nutritional Supplements

Certain supplements may help combat menstrual fatigue by addressing potential nutritional deficiencies. Which supplements are commonly recommended for menstrual health?

  • Iron (to combat potential anemia)
  • Magnesium (for muscle relaxation and energy production)
  • Vitamin B complex (for energy metabolism)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (for inflammation reduction)

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can interact with medications or have unexpected effects on your health.

Herbal Remedies

Some women find relief from menstrual symptoms, including fatigue, through the use of herbal remedies. What are some commonly used herbs for menstrual health?

  • Ginger (for reducing inflammation and pain)
  • Chamomile (for relaxation and sleep improvement)
  • Dong quai (for regulating menstrual cycles)
  • Chasteberry (for hormonal balance)

As with any supplement or remedy, it’s important to research thoroughly and consult with a healthcare professional before use, as herbal treatments can have side effects or interact with medications.

The Role of Lifestyle Factors in Menstrual Health

Beyond specific treatments and remedies, overall lifestyle factors play a crucial role in managing menstrual fatigue and promoting overall menstrual health. What aspects of daily life should be considered?

Sleep Hygiene

Quality sleep is essential for combating fatigue, especially during menstruation. How can you improve your sleep hygiene?

  • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine
  • Limit screen time before bed
  • Ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to rest

Regular Exercise

While it may be tempting to avoid physical activity when feeling fatigued, regular exercise can actually boost energy levels and alleviate menstrual symptoms. What types of exercise are beneficial during menstruation?

  • Low-impact cardio (swimming, cycling)
  • Yoga or Pilates
  • Strength training (with modifications as needed)
  • Walking or light jogging

Balanced Nutrition

A well-balanced diet can help stabilize energy levels and provide the nutrients necessary for optimal menstrual health. What dietary guidelines should be followed?

  • Include a variety of fruits and vegetables
  • Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates
  • Incorporate lean proteins and healthy fats
  • Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol intake

The Importance of Tracking Menstrual Symptoms

Keeping a record of menstrual symptoms, including fatigue, can provide valuable insights for both personal management and medical consultations. How can symptom tracking be beneficial?

  • Identifies patterns in symptom occurrence and severity
  • Helps pinpoint potential triggers for increased fatigue
  • Provides concrete information to share with healthcare providers
  • Allows for more personalized treatment approaches

Many smartphone apps are available for menstrual tracking, or a simple journal can be used to record symptoms, energy levels, and other relevant information throughout the menstrual cycle.

Addressing the Emotional Aspects of Menstrual Fatigue

The impact of menstrual fatigue extends beyond physical symptoms, often affecting emotional well-being and mental health. How can the emotional aspects of menstrual fatigue be addressed?

Self-Compassion and Acceptance

Practicing self-compassion during menstruation can help alleviate the frustration and guilt often associated with decreased productivity or energy levels. How can self-compassion be cultivated?

  • Acknowledge that fatigue is a normal part of the menstrual cycle
  • Allow yourself to rest when needed without self-judgment
  • Practice positive self-talk and affirmations
  • Engage in activities that bring comfort and joy

Social Support

Having a strong support system can make managing menstrual fatigue easier. How can social connections be leveraged for support?

  • Open communication with partners, family, and friends about menstrual experiences
  • Joining support groups or online communities for women with similar experiences
  • Seeking professional counseling if menstrual symptoms significantly impact mental health

Future Directions in Menstrual Health Research

As understanding of menstrual health continues to evolve, new avenues for research and treatment are emerging. What areas of menstrual health are currently being explored?

  • Personalized medicine approaches to menstrual symptom management
  • The role of the gut microbiome in menstrual health
  • Non-hormonal treatment options for menstrual disorders
  • The impact of environmental factors on menstrual health
  • Technological innovations for symptom tracking and management

These ongoing research efforts hold promise for improved understanding and management of menstrual fatigue and other menstrual health concerns in the future.

Empowering Women Through Education and Advocacy

Addressing menstrual fatigue and other menstrual health issues requires not only individual management strategies but also broader societal changes. How can women be empowered to take control of their menstrual health?

Education and Awareness

Increasing education about menstrual health can help dispel myths and reduce stigma. What educational initiatives are important?

  • Comprehensive menstrual health education in schools
  • Public awareness campaigns about common menstrual disorders
  • Training for healthcare providers on recognizing and addressing menstrual health concerns

Advocacy for Research and Policy Changes

Advocating for increased research funding and policy changes can lead to improved menstrual health outcomes. What areas require advocacy efforts?

  • Increased funding for menstrual health research
  • Workplace policies that accommodate menstrual health needs
  • Improved access to menstrual health care and products
  • Recognition of severe menstrual disorders as qualifying conditions for disability benefits

By combining individual management strategies with broader societal changes, women can work towards a future where menstrual fatigue and other menstrual health concerns are better understood, recognized, and addressed.

Why Am I So Tired During My Period?

Why Am I So Tired During My Period?

Periods tend to bring on a slew of unwanted symptoms, outside of the obviously unwelcome bleeding. Lower energy levels are one of them, and when paired with cramps, they can really put a damper on your day. Period (or PMS) fatigue can make you want to crawl back into bed, turn on Netflix and reach for your favorite comfort food – but that’s not necessarily the best plan to help you get through it. Let’s talk about why your energy levels tank during your time of the month, and how you can learn to combat fatigue and power through.

What’s the Deal? 

During the second half of the menstrual cycle, around the time women start experiencing symptoms of PMS, estrogen levels peak and then fall quickly – causing you to feel tired or sluggish. In the last week (during your period), estrogen levels will continue to fall, carrying this unpleasant feeling through the end of your cycle.1

Other culprits could be iron deficiency related to your period, stress, unhealthy eating habits, or the obvious answer, lack of sleep. The CDC recommends more than 7 hours of sleep each night2 – so if you’re getting less than that, more sleep might be the key to a more manageable time of the month.

If your flow feels abnormally heavy, or you have symptoms that just feel like they have to be something more, it’s possible there are other reasons at play too, like uterine fibroids or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). These are known causes of heavy menstrual bleeding that could cause some of the symptoms mentioned above. And the fact is, they’re also pretty common. 70% of women have uterine fibroids, and 80% of African American women will develop fibroids by the age of 50.3 However, not all women experience fibroid symptoms, which include stomach and pelvic pain, anemia, frequent urination and other debilitating symptoms that could lead to physical exhaustion, which makes it even more important to talk to your doctor if you feel like you’re experiencing an unusually heavy flow.4  

What Can I Do? 

Your first instinct for dealing with period fatigue may be to close your eyes again, but that might only make the situation worse. Physical activity can actually increase your energy levels and boost your mood. Try taking on a new workout with a friend to help keep your energy up or keep track of your physical activity in a fitness journal. Hormonal birth control can help to regulate these hormones, and while your hormones will still rise and fall, the symptoms may be less noticeable, just be sure to talk to your doctor before taking a hormonal therapy.1 Also, we know sluggishness and cramps can make you crave those salty and sweet treats – but be sure to eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of water during your period. Dehydration is a common contributor to low energy levels, so make sure you are tracking your water intake too.

What if it’s Not That Easy? 

Extreme fatigue, pain, or heavy bleeding during your period that causes you to stay home and skip out on daily activities could indicate something more serious. If you’re experiencing extremely low energy levels in addition to other symptoms, like heavy or prolonged bleeding, symptomatic uterine fibroids or AUB could be the underlying conditions causing these symptoms and that low-energy feeling.  

Luckily, there are some treatment options to consider with your doctor if some of the more holistic recommendations haven’t worked for you and the symptoms of your period are affecting your quality of life. For example, medical procedures such as, intra-uterine tissue removal procedures and laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation, both of which require little to no incisions, are treatment options for women experiencing the disruptive symptoms of fibroids. Furthermore, there are other safe and effective options for women who are finished having children. For more information and to learn more, check out the resources listed below: 

Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation (Lap-RFA)

Lap-RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers heat directly into a fibroid in order to destroy its tissue and relieve symptoms. It addresses fibroids in most locations and may provide relief from heavy periods and bloating symptoms.5 The procedure recovery time varies but is most frequently between 4-5 days. 6

Intra-uterine Tissue Removal

An intra-uterine tissue removal procedure is a uterine sparing procedure that removes fibroids, polyps and other intrauterine tissue. The typically outpatient procedure is minimally invasive and is administered through the body’s natural openings (i.e. through the vagina).7 

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a one-time, five-minute procedure that can safely and effectively reduce or eliminate heavy menstrual bleeding. The minimally invasive procedure removes the uterine lining and is appropriate for women who are finished with childbearing and desire relief from heavy bleeding.8 

Talk to an OBGYN in your area about your symptoms of abnormal uterine bleeding and potential treatment options that might be right for you.

References

  1. Physical activity and your menstrual cycle. Office on Women’s Health. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.womenshealth. gov/getting-active/physical-activity-menstrual-cycle.
  2. “How Much Sleep Do I Need?” Sleep and Sleep Disorders. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html.
  3. Baird DD, Dunson DB, Hill MV, Cousins D, Schechtman JM. High cumulative incidence of uterine leiomyoma in black and white women: ultrasound evidence. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2003; 188:100—107.
  4. Mayo Clinic—Uterine Fibroids—www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/symptoms-causes/syc-20354288
  5. Acessa ProVu Instructions for Use, ProVu Users Guide PL-01-0040
  6. SG Chudnoff, et al. Outpatient Procedure for the Treatment and Relief of Symptomatic Uterine Myomas. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2013;121(5):1075-82.
  7. McIlwaine P, McElhinney B, Karthigasu KA, Hart R, A Prospective Study of the Use of the MyoSure Resectoscope to Manage Endometrial Polyps in an Outpatient Setting. The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. October 2015.
  8. NovaSure Instructions for Use.

Why am I so tired on my period?

For many people who menstruate, you may ask yourself “Why am I so tired on my period?” during that time of the month.  Throughout your menstrual cycle, your hormones naturally fluctuate, which means there are some days you feel ready to conquer the world and others when you just want to hide under a blanket with a hot water bottle.

A 2022 study of premenstrual symptoms found that almost 60% of menstruators experience fatigue during their period — making it one of the most common premenstrual symptoms after food cravings and mood swings. Period fatigue can affect daily life, lower performance at work, and can reduce the desire to participate in social activities. Yet in our always-on society, functioning at a high-energy level isn’t always so easy for people who menstruate. 

At Oura, we are committed to empowering people with menstrual cycles to make more informed decisions about their reproductive health. One way that Oura members can do this is by activating our Period Prediction feature. Understanding your menstrual cycle can help you prioritize your sleep and other habits that help reduce fatigue, not only during your period but overall as well. For those who track their period with Oura, your insight messages are tailored to focus on balancing activity and recovery depending on where you are in your cycle. 

Period Fatigue: Normal, but Not Talked About Enough

“For too long we have modeled human performance in a linear manner, such that we believe that we wake up, and continue successive levels of productivity until we go home, crawl into the sheets, and (hopefully) fall asleep,” says Rebecca Robbins, PhD, sleep researcher and Oura advisor. 

“The truth is that so many processes in our bodies and brains operate in very rhythmic ways, with certain times when we are wired to achieve and succeed, and others when we vitally need rest. There is strong evidence to show that fatigue ebbs and flows over the course of the menstrual cycle. ”  

Although feeling tired and sluggish during your period is normal — and typically not a cause for concern — there are ways to up your energy during this point in your cycle. 

Below, find 5 potential reasons, plus science-based solutions, for combatting fatigue during your period. 

RELATED: Tired but Can’t Sleep? Here Are 5 Possible Reasons Why

Why Am I So Tired On My Period?

Every body is different, so there are no universal causes of period fatigue. However, there are a handful of factors behind most cases of menstrual fatigue. Once you know what these common culprits are, you can assess your lifestyle and habits and identify tweaks that might help address them.

1. Fluctuations in Hormone Levels

Your hormones fluctuate throughout the entire menstrual cycle — and they affect your entire body. As your body prepares to menstruate, the levels of estrogen and progesterone change. 

After ovulation, estrogen levels drop while progesterone levels rise. Estrogen levels then start to increase once again before both hormones crash around two to four days before menstruation — taking your energy levels with them. 

Low estrogen and progesterone levels prevent your body from effectively releasing melatonin — the sleep-inducing hormone. Without enough melatonin, you may find it harder to fall and stay asleep, leaving you fatigued.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates not only mood and energy levels but also estrogen synthesis. However, this also starts to drop off during the second half of your cycle, contributing to lower mood and energy levels.

These hormonal changes are largely responsible for the collection of symptoms known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

2. Period Pain

Period pain is one of the most common physical symptoms of PMS. It includes abdominal cramps, lower back pain, headaches, and uncomfortable bloating — all of which make it harder to relax or get a restful night’s sleep. Period pain can, therefore, contribute to sleep debt, making you feel more tired during the day. 

3. Low Iron Levels

In some cases, heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) can cause iron deficiency and anemia. Without enough iron, your body can’t produce hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that the red blood cells use to transfer oxygen to the cells in the body. 

Oxygen is essential to your energy and vitality, which is why low iron levels can cause period fatigue.

4. Circadian Misalignment

Hormonal changes throughout your cycle dictate your natural circadian rhythms. However, many of us lead lives that don’t respect these rhythms. We might stay up late at night for many reasons, including work, caring for children, watching TV, or even partying. 

The effects of circadian rhythm disruption on sleep and the menstrual cycle are particularly pronounced in shift workers — highlighting the importance of respecting your circadian rhythm as much as possible.

5. Food Cravings

Feel like your sweet tooth and carb cravings kick into high gear around your period? Blame it on your hormones. Research shows that fluctuating levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone cause these cravings around your period.

While there’s nothing wrong with indulging in a few extra snacks during your period, reaching for sugary, starchy, and highly processed foods can lead to blood glucose spikes — followed by an energy crash.

RELATED: How Late-Night Meals Affect Your Sleep

6 Ways to Treat Period Fatigue

Fortunately, period fatigue is nothing serious in most cases, and you can manage and even reduce it by making some of the following lifestyle tweaks. 

1. Try Some Gentle Movement

You might not feel like hitting the gym before or during your period, but research indicates that moderate aerobic exercise can help boost premenstrual energy levels. 

Oura members who are using the Period Prediction feature can also access a new set of personalized Readiness insights tailored to where you are in your cycle. In other words: You’ll see more accurate and actionable guidance for balancing activity and recovery depending on different points in your monthly cycle.

Oura Ring also integrates with the Wild.AI app, so if you train according to your cycle, you can import your data from Oura to appear in your Wild.AI morning check-ins. 

2. Get Some Rest

That said, it’s also important to listen to your body and get some rest when you feel you need it. After all, constant activity and circadian misalignment can both contribute to period fatigue. 

Taking time for rest can be just what your body needs before or during your period, so don’t feel guilty for saying no to unnecessary social plans or taking on extra duties at work.

Resting or taking a nap when your body needs it will do more for your health, social life, and productivity than pushing your body beyond its limits.

If you’re an Oura member, Rest Mode is perfect for when you want to focus on rest and recovery over activity. It adjusts your Sleep and Readiness insights while temporarily snoozing your Activity Score — allowing you to focus on rest.

3. Support Your Sleep

According to the Sleep Foundation, roughly seven out of ten people who menstruate say their sleep changes around three to six days before their period. Following general guidelines for better sleep, including reducing caffeine and alcohol, getting sun exposure, and staying active during the day. 

Additionally, awareness is key, says Dr. Robbins: “If you find yourself maintaining your sleep duration and Readiness Scores across your menstrual cycle, but you’re still feeling sluggish or fatigued, add a bit more time to your sleep schedule these days and emphasize wind-down routines to soothe you to sleep.”

4. Maintain a Balanced Diet

One study found that following a Mediterranean diet — which comprises a variety of vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats — shortens the menstrual cycle.  

Aim to eat a wide variety of vegetables, proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats to ensure your body has all the nutrients it needs for optimal functioning at any time of the month.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential for optimum health throughout your cycle — but it’s even more important when you’re on your period. One study found that drinking plenty of water can reduce bleeding duration and pain intensity.

Another study found that increasing water intake can improve both sleep and mood during your period.

6. Try Some Relaxation Techniques

Meditation, breathing exercises, massages, and acupuncture are just a handful of examples of ways to relax. But it’s up to you — anything that can help you wind down before bed and enjoy a deeper night’s sleep is an ideal relaxation technique.

Oura members can access relaxing meditations, breathwork exercises, and other relaxation techniques in the Explore tab in the Oura App.

RELATED: 5 Simple Breathing Techniques for a Good Night’s Sleep

When to See a Healthcare Professional

If you have particularly heavy periods or experience severe fatigue, it may be worth seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional. You could have iron-deficiency anemia or another underlying medical problem. Even if you don’t have heavy periods but still struggle with severe period symptoms, a healthcare provider could prescribe treatments to lessen the symptoms.


About the Oura Expert

Rebecca Robbins, Ph.D., is an Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School and an Associate Scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Her research uses marketing and novel communication tools and technologies (i.e. smartphones and other mobile devices) to design persuasive behavior change interventions to improve sleep and circadian health. In 2011, Dr. Robbins co-authored Sleep for Success! with Dr. James B. Maas. Dr. Robbins’ research has appeared in the New York Times, the Financial Times, and Readers’ Digest, and she has appeared on The Today Show, Live! With Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest, Fox Business News, ABC Nightline, CNBC, and CBS This Morning. 


Victoria Peel Yates

Why does one feel bad after menstruation

Loss of energy, bad mood, cramps and pain in the lower abdomen are the main symptoms that many women experience during menstruation. As a rule, after the end of menstrual bleeding, the physical and psychological state quickly improves – strength returns, the emotional background stabilizes, swelling disappears, discomfort disappears. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen. For some of the fair sex, health remains poor. We will explain why this is possible and how to solve the problem.

Causes and risk factors

To return to the usual rhythm of life, it is important to understand why, after menstruation, poor health persists. The main reason for this is a violation of endocrine regulation. With a hormonal imbalance, physical and mental activity decreases, emotional instability occurs, and a breakdown is felt.

Well-being can worsen not only under the influence of hormones. Other factors also influence it:

  • stress,
  • high physical and intellectual loads,
  • malnutrition with a deficiency of magnesium, iron, calcium, fiber, B vitamins.

The task of every woman is to do the maximum in order to restore good health and replenish energy reserves.

Ways to solve the problem

To improve well-being and get in shape faster after critical days, it is important to start with a change in diet. Include in the menu:

  • liver and other offal are valuable sources of iron,
  • legumes, whole grains, spinach and other leafy vegetables – rich in B vitamins and fiber,
  • nuts, pumpkin and sesame seeds, seaweed, cocoa – contain a lot of magnesium.

To eliminate the symptoms of PMS, improve well-being during and after menstruation, you can additionally take a special biocomplex Lady’s formula Personal Monthly System™ Enhanced Formula. It is designed taking into account the peculiarities of the phases of the menstrual cycle and contains all the necessary elements to maintain health on the eve of menstruation and on critical days: vitamins A, E, C, group B, magnesium and iron minerals, the effect of which is enhanced by extracts of medicinal plants.

Phytoestrogens vitex, dong quai, wild yam eliminate PMS, cyclic pain, swelling. Magnesium and vitamin B6 help to cope with nervousness, irritability before menstruation.

Gotu-Cola eliminates swelling, soothes, increases energy, efficiency.

Magnesium and vitamin B6 eliminate irritability, soothe, improve mood, performance.

Gamma Linoleic Acid eliminates cyclic pain, provides emotional comfort, reduces appetite and prevents weight gain.

Extracts of raspberry and dandelion leaves normalize the volume and duration of menstruation, eliminate pain, increase the level of iron and hemoglobin.

The rules for receiving the complex are indicated in the instructions. Ask for products from the Lady’s formula line in pharmacies of the city and order them online.

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We know why you feel terribly tired these days!

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Every time you turn into a fountain of red liquid with a swollen belly and a terrible craving for the refrigerator and everything edible, with newly formed pimples, you want to gather all your strength into a fist and take it and turn into Wonder Woman, who can easily cope with all the hardships and with a raised head meets the enemy. But, to our great regret, you simply do not have enough strength for this, as if all vital energy leaves you along with the blood. And usually no one understands why you are so tired and do much less than usual. When someone dares to reproach you for doing nothing, poke them in the nose with this article. Because, it turns out, there is medical evidence that explains this state of yours during your period.

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“About 10 days before the start of the cycle, the body adjusts and “hopes” that the egg traveling through the fallopian tube will meet a sperm cell on its way and attach itself to the uterus, ready to raise a child.

For this miracle of nature to happen, the body maintains a certain environment by releasing certain hormones. But when fertilization does not occur, the same level of hormones is no longer needed, and their content in the blood decreases.

When this happens, changes occur throughout the body, as it no longer needs to be in a state of full readiness for pregnancy. Including you may feel tired, which will last until the next release of hormones, ”said Detroit pediatrician Molly O’Shill.

Do not be afraid of smart words and intricate phrases, everything is very simple. During menstruation, hormone levels are low, so you feel very tired. About a week after they are over, your body’s hormones increase and you feel better. Your hormone levels reach their peak around ovulation (about 2 weeks after your period ends), which means your energy levels will increase. Further, with the approach of monthly hormones, it becomes less again. And so in a circle.

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The main thing to remember is that on those days when you look more like a zombie than a person, you need to help your body. How? Try to eat the right foods, get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, exercise (but not too vigorously) and try to be positive about everything.