Feeling colder than usual during menstruation or the days leading up to it is a common experience. This sensation, sometimes accompanied by flu-like aches, is a recognized physiological change during the monthly cycle. The body’s internal thermostat is highly responsive to hormonal shifts, which influence how warm or cold a person perceives themselves to be. Understanding these biological mechanisms helps normalize the experience and manage discomfort.
The Hormonal Basis of Temperature Shifts
Hormonal fluctuation is the primary driver of temperature shifts, acting directly on the hypothalamus, the body’s thermoregulation center. Throughout the menstrual cycle, basal body temperature (BBT), the lowest resting temperature, naturally rises and falls in a predictable pattern. This biphasic temperature curve is mainly caused by the presence or absence of progesterone.
During the luteal phase (the second half of the cycle), progesterone levels are high after ovulation. This causes the BBT to increase by approximately 0.5 to 1.0 degrees Fahrenheit (0.2 to 0.6 degrees Celsius). This thermogenic effect prepares the body for potential pregnancy by keeping the core warmer.
When pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop sharply just before menstruation begins. This decline removes the hormone’s warming influence. As a result, the core body temperature decreases back to the cooler baseline temperature of the follicular phase. This noticeable drop in internal temperature leads to a subjective feeling of coldness or chills as the body adjusts to the lower temperature set point.
Other Physiological Contributors to Coldness
Other systemic changes during menstruation also contribute to the sensation of coldness. Menstrual blood loss can lead to mild iron deficiency or anemia, especially with heavy periods. Iron is vital for hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. A reduction in iron-rich red blood cells impairs the body’s ability to circulate heat efficiently and maintain warmth.
The body often experiences increased fatigue and lower energy levels around menstruation. This corresponds to a reduction in physical activity and overall metabolic rate. A lower metabolic rate means the body generates less internal heat, increasing susceptibility to feeling cold. Furthermore, prostaglandins, which help the uterus contract, can contribute to flu-like symptoms, including chills.
Practical Ways to Manage the Chill
Coping with the menstrual chill involves simple steps focused on external warmth and internal support. Utilizing external heat sources is effective for managing cold sensations and easing cramping. Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to the lower abdomen or back provides targeted warmth and relief.
External Warmth and Diet
Sipping warm beverages, such as herbal teas or broths, gently raises the internal temperature. Dressing in layers using warm, breathable fabrics allows for effective heat retention and easy adjustment. To mitigate potential mild anemia, focus on consuming iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, and fortified cereals to support healthy blood volume.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While feeling cold during a period is often a normal physiological response, certain accompanying symptoms suggest the need for a medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if persistent coldness is accompanied by an unexplained fever, as this may indicate an underlying infection or illness. Conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease can present with chills and fever and require prompt medical attention.
You should also seek advice if you notice signs of severe anemia, which include extreme fatigue, dizziness, unusual paleness, or shortness of breath. Similarly, experiencing unusually heavy bleeding, known as menorrhagia, that soaks through pads or tampons rapidly should be discussed with a doctor. These symptoms may signal a systemic issue that extends beyond normal menstrual variation and warrants a professional assessment.