Can I take a shower during my menstrual period?

Bathing is a routine activity for most people—some bathe daily, while others do so every few days. However, because women experience menstruation monthly, various myths about bathing during this time circulate widely—particularly the misconception that women should avoid bathing altogether while on their period. So, can women bathe during menstruation? Below, we address this question.

Can women bathe during menstruation?

Yes, women may bathe during menstruation. During this time, menstrual blood accumulates in the vaginal area, and thick sanitary pads are worn, further compromising ventilation and airflow in the genital region. Additionally, sebum production increases, and the mixture of blood, oils, and sweat can irritate the skin and predispose women to various inflammatory conditions. Therefore, maintaining genital hygiene through regular bathing is recommended during menstruation. However, special attention must be paid to bathing methods. Currently, showering or sponge bathing is universally recommended. This is primarily because bathtub immersion (i.e., sitz baths or full-body immersion) may allow contaminated water and vaginal bacteria to ascend via the cervical canal into the uterine cavity, increasing infection risk—and thus should be strictly avoided.

Knowledge Extension: Healthy Bathing Practices for Women During Menstruation

1. Avoid bathtub bathing (sitz or full immersion)

During menstruation, the endometrium sheds, leaving an open wound in the uterine cavity; cervical mucus is flushed out by menstrual blood, causing slight cervical dilation; and menstrual blood remains in the vagina—creating an ideal medium for bacterial growth. These factors collectively impair the local protective barrier of the reproductive tract. Coupled with a temporary decline in systemic immunity during menstruation, bathtub bathing significantly increases infection risk.

2. Avoid cold-water bathing

Cold-water bathing induces physiological stress responses due to low water temperature—including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, muscle contraction, and nervous system tension. Rather than relieving fatigue, it may instead trigger common colds and should therefore be avoided whenever possible. Due to their unique physiology, women—especially during menstruation—are particularly susceptible to hormonal imbalances, amenorrhea (absent periods), and abdominal pain when exposed to cold-water stimulation.

The above outlines whether bathing is permissible during menstruation. We hope this information is helpful to you.