Can you have a steam bath during your menstrual period?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, it is not recommended to undergo sauna or sweat therapy during menstruation, especially when menstrual flow is heavy, as it should be strictly avoided. Only those with very light flow and no physical discomfort may cautiously consider it. Additionally, undergoing sweat therapy while fasting or excessively fatigued is particularly inadvisable, as it may easily lead to dizziness, weakness, or similar symptoms. In daily life, proper保暖 (warmth preservation), adequate rest, and developing good menstrual hygiene habits during menstruation are essential for maintaining overall health.

Generally, it is not recommended to use saunas or steam therapy during menstruation, especially when menstrual flow is heavy; in such cases, it should be strictly avoided. Only women with extremely light flow and no physical discomfort may cautiously consider it. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Sauna or steam therapy raises body temperature and opens pores, which may accelerate pelvic blood circulation, leading to increased menstrual flow, prolonged periods, or even worsened menstrual cramps. Physiologically, these effects clearly conflict with the body’s needs during menstruation, and engaging in such activities blindly may easily cause discomfort. However, if menstrual flow is naturally very light and there are no symptoms such as abdominal pain or dizziness, an occasional short session of sauna or steam therapy might not cause significant adverse effects. Therefore, during menstruation, one should carefully assess their own condition and avoid sauna or steam therapy without consideration. The body's resistance is lower during this time, and open pores after sweating may make one more susceptible to colds or exacerbate menstrual discomfort.

In addition, sauna or steam therapy should absolutely be avoided when fasting or excessively fatigued, as it may lead to dizziness and weakness. In daily life, it is important during menstruation to stay warm, ensure adequate rest, and develop good menstrual hygiene habits to maintain overall health.

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