If periods are already tough for you—and let's face it, they're rarely enjoyable—you might notice they hit harder in winter. Cravings for chocolate (thanks, hormones), low mood, bloating: it all intensifies. The culprit? Lack of sunlight, according to Dr. Preethi Daniel, director of The Doctors Clinic in London, as shared on Metro UK.
"Shorter days impact mood, and combined with hormonal shifts during periods, everything feels amplified," Dr. Daniel explains. Less light means lower vitamin D levels, which reduces dopamine—the feel-good hormone. Plus, we tend to stay indoors, exercise less, and eat more, worsening premenstrual symptoms. Studies show active women experience fewer issues than sedentary ones. Winter cycles also lengthen by about 0.9 days on average, delaying ovulation and potentially complicating conception. Dr. Daniel recommends staying warm and exercising regularly to support hormonal balance.
Stay strong—winter ends in under two months!
