Is it safe to drink sweet rice wine during menstruation?
Mar 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
During menstruation, it is acceptable to consume small amounts of glutinous rice wine in which the alcohol has completely evaporated. However, alcoholic or chilled glutinous rice wine should not be consumed, especially for individuals with heavy menstrual flow or dysmenorrhea, who should avoid it altogether. If the glutinous rice wine has been boiled at high temperature—for example, in soups or sweet stews cooked for more than 20 minutes—such that all alcohol has fully evaporated, women with a constitution prone to coldness and light menstrual flow may consume small amounts warm, to help alleviate cold abdominal pain by taking advantage of its warming properties.
During menstruation, it is acceptable to consume small amounts of glutinous rice wine in which the alcohol has completely evaporated. However, rice wine containing alcohol or chilled rice wine should not be consumed, especially for individuals with heavy menstrual flow or dysmenorrhea. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:
If glutinous rice wine has been boiled at high temperature—for example, used in soups or sweet stews for more than 20 minutes—and the alcohol has fully evaporated, women with a constitution prone to coldness or light menstrual flow may consume a small amount while it's still warm. Its warming properties may help relieve cold pain in the lower abdomen, but consumption should not exceed 50 ml per serving.
Consuming uncooked rice wine containing alcohol may cause vasodilation and worsen heavy menstrual bleeding or prolong the menstrual period. Chilled rice wine may trigger uterine contractions and intensify dysmenorrhea, especially posing higher risks for those with endometriosis or menstrual-related headaches.
Ensure all alcohol has fully evaporated before consumption. It should not be taken on an empty stomach. If menstrual flow suddenly increases or abdominal pain worsens, discontinue immediately. As a safer alternative, it is recommended to consume brown sugar ginger tea instead.
