Menstruation, also known as periods, is the time of the month when shedding of the endometrium (lining of the uterus) happens. When menstrual bleeding occurs for about three to seven days, you may experience period cramps, brought about by uterine contractions; breast tenderness or swelling; and bloating. Emotionally, you may have mood swings. You may also feel tired or less energetic when you go through menses. One more symptom that many women may experience is night sweats during period.

What are the causes of night sweats during period?

Most causes that contribute to sweating in the night during menstruation have an association with fluctuation of hormones, says gynaecologist Dr D. Sangeeta Gomes.

Here are some common causes:

1. Hormonal changes

Oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate through the phases of the menstrual cycle, and such alterations tend to disrupt a load of things, among which are optimal temperature regulation within the body. When this happens, it causes night sweats in women.

2. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Some women experience night sweats as a symptom of PMS. It is a group of symptoms that occur in women in the days leading up to menstruation, and typically lasts until a few days after periods start.

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3. Menopause transition

If you are in your late 40s or early 50s, night sweats could be related to perimenopause or menopause. It is the time when estrogen levels decline significantly, shares the expert.

4. Primary ovarian insufficiency

Night sweats during period can be a sign of primary ovarian insufficiency, a condition in which the ovaries stop functioning normally prior to age 40. Hot flashes, painful sex and night sweats are some of the symptoms of POI, according to the National Library of Medicine.

5. Infections

Sometimes, infections or illnesses coinciding with your menstrual cycle might cause fever. Rise in the body temperature during a fever can lead to increased perspiration, especially during nighttime. This can lead to night sweats in women.

6. Hyperthyroidism

Night sweats during period can be due to health conditions such as thyroid disorders. For example, hyperthyroidism, which happens when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone, can produce generalised increased sweating.

Is having night sweats during period normal?

Yes, night sweating during a menstrual cycle is one of the common experiences shared by many women, says the expert. Most women have episodes of sweating at night, especially during the days preceding their menstruation. Not everybody would go through this symptom, but it is considered a normal response towards hormonal change.

How to manage night sweats during periods?

If your night sweats are connected to a health condition, you need to get treated for it. You can also follow these tips:

1. Maintain a cool sleeping environment

Use a fan or air conditioning in your bedroom if it is hot. Choose bedding made of light, and breathable materials. You can take a cool shower before bed as well. This will reduce your body temperature when you sleep.

2. Go for breathable fabrics

Your clothes for sleeping should be made of breathable fabrics like cotton, and not synthetic ones that can trap heat close to the skin. You can also go for loose sleepwear, as it allows space, and lets the air touch your body.

3. Stay hydrated

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or cooling healthy drinks during the day to help you regulate your body temperature. But decrease liquid intake prior to bedtime in order to avoid excessive urination and sleep disturbance, says Dr Gomes.

4. Avoid triggers

Night sweats can also be provoked by spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, so it is better to avoid them in the evening before going to bed. Eating smaller meals with light food before going to bed is a good idea as well.

5. Place an ice pack under your pillow

Use a soft gel ice pack to help you in managing night sweats. All you have to do is keep it under your pillow before sleeping. This can help cool your sleeping environment, and when you wake up in the middle of the night, you can flip your pillow over. This will help to cool off your face.

Night sweats during period may be due to your hormones or a health condition. If your night sweats happen on a regular basis and cause sleeping problems, check with a doctor.