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As your menstrual cycle progresses, you might notice fluctuations in your energy levels, with fatigue being one of the most common symptoms.

The monthly hormonal shifts, as well as physiological responses within women’s bodies, can lead to heightened feelings of tiredness during specific phases of the menstrual cycle. If you find yourself lacking in energy, feeling tired, or generally listless in the days leading up to and during your period, you might be experiencing what's commonly referred to as period fatigue.

According to research conducted by Active Iron, nearly half of all women (49%) report frequently experiencing tiredness and fatigue as a result of their menstrual cycle.

Read more: Galway woman's undetected blood pressure turned her into a 'walking time-bomb'

While feeling tired prior to your period is typically considered a normal part of the menstrual cycle, severe fatigue or fatigue that lasts throughout your cycle may fall outside the realm of what medical professionals would deem standard period symptoms.

The following list shows the most common period symptoms:

  • Stomach cramps/pain – 64%
  • Tiredness/fatigue – 49%
  • Mood changes – 44%
  • Stomach bloating – 43%
  • Backache/pain – 39%
  • Sore breasts/breast tenderness – 35%
  • Change in bowel movements – 27%
  • Headaches – 27%
  • Skin breakouts – 27%
  • Change in appetite – 20%
  • Migraines – 13%
  • Insufficient iron levels – 12%
  • Vomiting – 3%
  • Fainting – 3%

If you experience the following symptoms throughout your menstrual cycle, you may be grappling with ongoing tiredness and fatigue:

  • Consistently low energy levels
  • Finding yourself sleeping longer than usual
  • An increased urge to nap during the day
  • Persistent feelings of tiredness and listlessness
Women may have lesser known period condition and not know
Women may have lesser known period condition and not know

What Leads to Period Fatigue?

Most medical experts and researchers attribute period fatigue, alongside other PMS symptoms, to hormonal and chemical changes that transpire in the lead-up to menstruation. Moreover, certain PMS symptoms can exacerbate our overall exhaustion levels.

With the winter on the horizon and colder weather starting to creep in, research reveals that it is common for you to experience period fatigue in the winter weather more than any other time of year.

The primary causes of period fatigue in the winter are as follows:

Reduced Physical Activity

  • In winter months, people often find themselves exercising less, due to the weather conditions or arrangements that usually take place over the festive period. Since physical activity improves circulation and releases endorphins, it can help reduce fatigue. When physical activity decreases, the symptoms of period fatigue are increased.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

  • Some individuals experience Seasonal Affective Disorder during the winter months, which can lead to increased feelings of fatigue and lethargy. SAD is associated with reduced exposure to natural sunlight, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and affect mood. This can increase the fatigue experienced during menstruation.
Women may have lesser known period condition and not know
Women may have lesser known period condition and not know

Eating Habits

  • Cold weather often leads to changes in eating habits. People may crave more comfort foods, which can be high in sugar and carbohydrates. These dietary choices can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to energy crashes and increased feelings of fatigue.

Natural Light Exposure

  • Shorter daylight hours and less exposure to natural light during the winter can disrupt sleep patterns and the body's internal clock. This change can lead to poor sleep quality, and an increased feeling of fatigue.

Increased Stress

  • It is no secret that the festive season and the challenges associated with winter weather can contribute to increased stress levels. Stress can amplify period symptoms, including fatigue, making it more difficult to manage during the winter months.

Dehydration

  • In cold weather, people may not feel as thirsty and might not drink enough water. Dehydration can lead to feelings of tiredness and, in turn, increase period fatigue.

To try and reduce period fatigue during the colder months, it's essential to make self-care a priority and keep up healthy habits. This can include maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, incorporating gentle exercise into your routine, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and ensuring you get enough exposure to natural light, especially in the mornings.

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