Can I drink cold tea during my menstrual period?

May 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, it is not recommended to drink cold herbal tea during menstruation. Cold herbal teas are considered cold-natured foods, which may stimulate the blood flow in the pelvic cavity and cause constriction of the pelvic blood vessels. This could lead to poor menstrual blood discharge, even the formation of blood clots, affecting normal physiological functions. For women who already suffer from dysmenorrhea, drinking cold herbal tea may exacerbate the pain.

Generally, drinking cold herbal tea is not recommended during menstruation. The specific reasons are as follows:

Cold herbal tea is considered a cold-natured food. Consumption may irritate blood flow in the pelvic region, causing constriction of the pelvic blood vessels. This may hinder the smooth discharge of menstrual blood and even lead to blood clots, affecting normal physiological functions. For women who already suffer from dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), drinking cold herbal tea may exacerbate the pain. Additionally, during menstruation, a woman's gastrointestinal function tends to be more sensitive, and consuming cold herbal tea may irritate the stomach and intestines, potentially causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. Therefore, it is not recommended for women to drink cold herbal tea during their menstrual period.

During menstruation, women are advised to choose warm, easily digestible foods, such as hot soup or porridge. These foods can help promote blood circulation and alleviate discomfort associated with menstruation. It is also advisable to moderately consume iron-rich foods such as animal liver, red meat, and spinach, along with fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C, such as kiwifruit and oranges, to enhance iron absorption and maintain overall health during the menstrual period.