I logged onto Yoga Journal's website today to find useful yoga poses for cramps, as I suffer terribly. They had a long article on ways to have an easier menstruation. One thing I found puzzling, they said, "Baths disrupt the natural rhythms of your menstrual flow, so shower the first four days of your period." I have always been a warm bath soaker to help relieve cramps, and was confused as to why a bath would disrupt the flow. Any thoughts?
What if you're a heavy bleeder? I am and as much as I want to get rid of cramps, I wouldn't take a bath.
Well I am one... Just like I know you're not supposed to use a heating pad, I used to do that as well. I guess I never thought about the warm water causing more issues. Other than heavy bleeding, any other reason to not bathe during this time?
could this possibly mean that is the reason why I am not getting my period although I've been expecting it for a like a week? cause I take baths every day? and definitely not pregnant btw
ive never heard of that. i use a heating pad too, its pretty much the only thing that helps. why arent you supposed to use one?
Maybe because ( at least for me) when I'm in water I stop bleeding. My cramps are worse after a bath because my body tries to get everything out quickly after.
Exactly, thats what I've found too Im interested about the heat pad thing though. I sometimes use one
Where did you hear the heating pad thing? Using a hotwater bottle or heat on your tummy during the painful days of your period is the best thing you can do. Not only does the heat comfort you, it turns on a type of receptor where the injury is. The receptors block out the chemicals that send messages to your brain that tell you you're in pain. It works the same way painkillers do. A bath during menstruation is perfectly fine. Avoid cold water- It can make the uterine contractions more intense causing more pain. Heat and warmth is good for you though. Baths don't disrupt the shedding of the uterine wall, it just prevents the flow of blood from your body. It's a good thing really, since you don't want to be surrounded in bloody water and there's no need to wear a tampon- It's not like you're going swimming (which providing you wear a tampon is perfectly fine too). When you get out of the bath you will notice a lot of bleeding since the water no longer acts as a barrier, so keep tissues or an old towel handy. That's all.
Generally while in water, you will not bleed, but I don't see this as a disruption at all. You can go swimming and be perfectly fine, and baths are so relaxing.
