As the temperature rises and the hot heat of each year, frequent and intense heat waves occur frequently in Hyderabad. This has become a major concern for public health, especially in fertility and reproductive health. Although most people focus on external well-being, remember that extreme heat and humidity can have a significant impact on our internal health, especially when it comes to regulating hormones and menstrual cycles. Heat stress is one of the harmful conditions that occurs when our body cannot effectively regulate its temperature, resulting in hormone imbalances and interferences during the menstrual cycle. Furthermore, it has a negative impact on expecting mothers or patients with thyroid disease, PCOS, etc., as they are susceptible to diseases and diseases related to heat (such as pregnancy complications, premature delivery, preeclampsia and many others). Now let’s learn the link between heat stress and hormones, menstrual cycles, and how to deal with their challenges related to fertility.
The link between thermal stress and hormones
The menstrual cycle is regulated by complex interactions of hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and lutein hormone. Excessive exposure to excessive heat for a long time can cause thermal stress, which may interfere with the hormonal balance. When your body is exposed to excessive heat, it activates natural cooling mechanisms such as sweating and vasodilation to regulate temperature. However, prolonged exposure to heat causes stress in the hypothalamus, which is part of the brain responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger and hormone release. One of the most important hormones affected by heat stress is the hypothalamic pituitary-Gunda (HPG) axis. The HPG axis controls the release of hormones that regulate reproductive function, but when this axis is destroyed, it causes irregularities during the menstrual cycle.
One of the main challenges posed by heat stress on menstrual cycles is delayed or irregular cycles. As your body moves from the reproductive process to regulate temperature, production of reproductive hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, may become unstable, causing delayed ovulation or disruption of the time of menstruation. Those with PCOS are very susceptible to obvious destruction during the menstrual cycle.
In addition, excessive heat and dehydration can also affect the amount of menstrual flow. Women may experience heavier or lesser periods depending on how their body responds to heat stress and dehydration. Those suffering from excessive bleeding experience dehydration. It may increase the risk of heat-related diseases, such as depletion failure or stroke. Thermal stress increases menstrual discomfort such as cramps and bloating.
Symptoms of heat stress (PMS) symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, and irritability. For women who have already dealt with PMS symptoms, the combination of extreme caloric and hormonal changes may make their discomfort worse. Generally, it is important for women to drink plenty of water and take a regular break in a cool place, especially if their menstrual flow is particularly heavy.
Tips or preventive measures to resolve thermal stress
We all know that the most effective way to hit thermal stress on the menstrual cycle and hormone balance is to keep moisture. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial, especially in the summer. Furthermore, many electrolytes are lost through sweat, so it is important to drink electrolyte beverages such as coconut water or sports drinks to maintain liquid balance and promote general health. The severity of PMS symptoms can be reduced, and hormonal health can be preserved through a nutritionally rich diet, including foods high in vitamin B6 and Omega-3 fatty acids.
A balanced and nutritious diet, including magnesium, vitamin B6 and omega-3 fatty acids, helps maintain hormone health and reduces the severity of PMS symptoms. Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains and leptin supports the body’s natural cooling mechanism and regulates the temperature during heat waves.
Additionally, it is always recommended to keep your body cool by staying in a cool place or using cooling products such as ice packs, portable fans and cooling towels to keep you cool if you start to feel hot. During the summer, keep track of the menstrual cycle as it can help you identify interruptions or delays and take future precautions. It is crucial to seek medical advice from a fertility specialist or health care professional to address menstrual cycle problems or other potential problems related to thermal stress.
Summer calories can cause irregular periods and worsen PMS symptoms. By maintaining moisture and good nutrition, women can manage their summer calories and cope with the challenges posed by thermal stress, thus protecting their menstrual and hormonal health.
Written by Dr. Jalagam Kavya Rao
MBB, MS OBG, FRM, FIGL
Regional medical director and fertility expert in Oasis Birth Zone
