Why Should One Avoid Sauna Use Three Days Before and After Menstruation?
Mar 23, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Sweat therapy (e.g., sauna or steam bath) is contraindicated three days before and after menstruation because it enhances systemic blood circulation, potentially increasing menstrual flow and raising the risk of catching a cold. Moreover, women’s immune function tends to be relatively weakened before and after menstruation. During sweat therapy, pores are dilated and excessive sweating occurs, making the body more susceptible to chilling and subsequent colds.
Menstruation refers to the cyclical shedding and bleeding of the endometrium that occurs in conjunction with ovarian cyclical changes. The onset of regular menstruation is an important indicator of reproductive maturity and constitutes a key physiological phenomenon for women of childbearing age. Normal menstruation is characterized by both periodicity and self-limitation. So why should women avoid sauna or steam therapy three days before and after menstruation? Below, we address this question.
Why Sauna or Steam Therapy Is Not Recommended Three Days Before and After Menstruation
Sauna or steam therapy is discouraged three days before and after menstruation because it enhances systemic blood circulation, potentially increasing menstrual flow and raising the risk of catching a cold.
Menstruation involves the shedding of the endometrium. Undergoing sauna or steam therapy during the three days before or after menstruation may elevate body temperature, thereby accelerating blood circulation—this may lead to heavier menstrual bleeding or prolonged menstrual duration. Moreover, women’s immune function tends to be relatively compromised during the perimenstrual period. During sauna or steam therapy, pores are dilated and profuse sweating occurs, increasing susceptibility to chills and colds.
If you wish to undergo sauna or steam therapy, it is advisable to wait until at least three days after menstruation has ended.
Women with generally weak constitutions, malnutrition, or preexisting cardiovascular disease are typically advised against sauna or steam therapy. Such treatments can cause tachycardia and elevated blood pressure, thereby increasing the risk of acute cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events.
During menstruation, it is essential to maintain adequate body warmth—particularly avoiding abdominal exposure to cold.
The above outlines the reasons why sauna or steam therapy is not recommended three days before and after menstruation. We hope this information is helpful to you.
