Are Infrared Saunas Safe During Menstruation?

Yes, infrared saunas are generally safe during menstruation, but it depends on how your body reacts. The heat can either provide some relief or make things a bit uncomfortable, depending on your unique symptoms.

As with anything related to your body, it's important to listen to what it's telling you.

We'll show you how infrared saunas interact with your body during your period and provide some tips on using them safely.

Does Heat Affect Menstrual Flow?

Yes, the heat from an infrared sauna can slightly increase menstrual flow. This happens because heat causes vasodilation, a process where your blood vessels widen, increasing circulation. It’s the same reason you might notice your skin getting red or flushed in a sauna. With more blood flowing through your body, it’s possible that your period might feel heavier or you might notice some extra spotting afterward.

But before you panic—this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. For most women, this increase in blood flow is minor and doesn’t drastically affect their period. If you tend to have a heavier period, you might notice it more. If your period is typically light, the change could be minimal. Just know it’s a potential side effect, and it’s not harmful in itself. You might want to bring along some extra supplies, just in case!

Does Using a Sauna During Your Period Worsen Symptoms?

It depends on the individual, but for some women, using a sauna might worsen certain menstrual symptoms like cramps or bloating. The heat from infrared saunas penetrates deep into muscle tissue (unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you). This can lead to increased circulation, which might actually make bloating worse or intensify cramps for some.

However, there’s also the flip side. For other women, infrared saunas help reduce menstrual cramps because of their muscle-relaxing properties. When muscles are warm and relaxed, they contract less, which can relieve the intensity of period cramps. It’s similar to how you might use a heating pad to ease cramps, but in this case, it’s the whole-body effect of a sauna doing the work.

If you’re someone who struggles with severe cramps, it’s worth trying a short sauna session to see how your body reacts. Start slow—maybe with a 10-15 minute session. If you feel relief, then great! If not, no harm done, and you can opt for other methods to manage discomfort.

Can Infrared Saunas Provide Any Benefits for Menstrual Discomfort?

Yes, there are some potential benefits to using an infrared sauna during menstruation, especially when it comes to easing muscle tension and reducing stress. Here’s where the science kicks in: infrared saunas work by using infrared light to heat your body directly, rather than heating the air around you. This allows the heat to penetrate deeper into your muscles and tissues, which can be particularly helpful for relieving cramps.

When your muscles are warm, they relax. This relaxation can help reduce the intensity of uterine contractions (the cause of menstrual cramps). Infrared heat is also known to stimulate endorphin release, which are your body’s natural painkillers, so you might find the session soothing both physically and mentally.

Additionally, infrared saunas help improve circulation, which means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to muscles that are fatigued or sore. For women experiencing back pain or tension during their period, this can be a lifesaver.

Plus, there’s the mood-boosting effect: many women report feeling calmer and less irritable after spending time in a sauna, which can be a huge benefit if you’re battling PMS.

Are There Any Risks of Using Infrared Saunas During Menstruation?

Yes, there are some risks, but they’re generally mild. One of the most common issues is dehydration. During your period, your body is already under stress, and the added heat from the sauna can cause you to sweat more, losing both fluids and electrolytes. If you don’t stay hydrated, this can lead to dizziness, fatigue, or even headaches.

Also, if you already experience low blood pressure during your period, the heat from an infrared sauna can lower it even more, leaving you feeling lightheaded. If you stand up too quickly after your session, you could experience what's called "postural hypotension" (when your blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing).

Lastly, there’s the chance that the sauna might worsen your cramps or bloating. Heat increases circulation, which can sometimes make these symptoms feel more intense for some women. If you’re someone who experiences painful periods, it might be worth testing a shorter sauna session first to see how your body reacts.

How Can You Use an Infrared Sauna Safely While Menstruating?

To use an infrared sauna safely during menstruation, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session to replace any fluids lost through sweating. If possible, sip on something with electrolytes to replenish what you lose while sweating, like coconut water or an electrolyte drink.

Secondly, listen to your body. If you start to feel dizzy, overheated, or uncomfortable in any way, it’s perfectly fine to cut your session short. It’s more important to take care of yourself than to push through just to hit a certain time limit. Remember, every body is different, and how you react to the heat during your period might change from month to month.

You might also want to avoid sessions that are too long. If you’re new to using a sauna, or if it’s your first time using one during your period, try a short 10-15 minute session to start and see how you feel. Some women find that they need to adjust the temperature lower, as they are more sensitive to heat during menstruation.

Should You Avoid Infrared Saunas Entirely While Menstruating?

No, you don’t have to avoid infrared saunas entirely during menstruation, but you should be cautious if you notice that heat makes your symptoms worse. For many women, using a sauna during their period is perfectly fine and can even offer some relief from cramps and muscle tension. But for others, it might not be the most comfortable experience.

There’s no universal rule that says women should stay out of saunas during their period. In fact, many women swear by sauna sessions for relieving menstrual discomfort. It’s all about figuring out what works for you. If the heat helps you relax and eases your symptoms, go for it.

But if you notice your cramps worsening or you feel more bloated, it might be best to skip the sauna for a few days and try something else for relief.

Final Thoughts on Infrared Saunas During Menstruation

So, are infrared saunas safe during menstruation? For most women, the answer is yes. They can be a great tool for relaxation, muscle relief, and even stress reduction during your period. However, the key is to listen to your body and stay hydrated. If the sauna feels good, use it! If it doesn’t, no worries—there are plenty of other ways to care for your body during that time of the month.

Either way, knowing how your body responds to heat during menstruation can help you make the best choice for your overall comfort and well-being.