INTIMINA’s in-house gynaecology expert, Dr. Unsworth has looked at why period-related pains are so bad at this time of year that they’re forcing women to miss out on parties
Women have admitted to making up excuse to get out of Christmas parties instead of telling the truth.
Christmas is here and for many that can only mean one thing lots of get togethers and with them, a massive spikes in alcohol consumption. With all of the predictably busy plans that come along this time of year, many may be finding it all a bit too much and not just owing to nasty hangovers.
According to a study for Trainline, 57% of Brits admit they indulge in booze over December more than the rest of the year owing to ‘seasonal spontaneity’.
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But new research from INTIMINA, reveals more than one in three women would consider skipping events like Christmas parties due to their periods. Another 17% would even lie about why they’re staying at home.
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Top reasons for skipping events as a result of them clashing with a period, include abdominal cramps, heaving bleeding, mood swings, and lower back pain. Even more eye-opening, one in seven (14%) of respondents said they would absolutely “dread” having their period on or around Christmas Day, while over a third called it an inconvenience.
Nearly half of women in the UK report that their period aligning with the holiday season makes them feel stressed and anxious about upcoming events. Indeed, for many women it might seem symptoms get worse in the winter – and they wouldn’t be wrong.
“There is interesting data looking at how the seasons can affect the menstrual cycle,” Dr. Unsworth, INTIMINA’s in-house gynaecology expert explains. “A number of women feel that menstruation is more painful, and cycle lengths change, during the winter months”.
So, how can this happen? “There are different suggestions as to how this occurs,” explains Dr. Unsworth. “One theory is that the cold weather leads to constriction of blood vessels which can increase pain. Other theories include the fact that in the winter we are less active and spend more time indoors, and this can lead to reduced mood and a worsening perception of pain.”
Dr. Unsworth added: “Periods don’t take a holiday, but that doesn’t mean you should miss out on the festivities. Women deserve to feel confident and carefree during the holidays, so let’s make sure we’re equipped to enjoy every moment.”
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