Alcohol and Menstruation
We’ve all heard of social drinkers, but could “ovu-holics” become a new term? Probably not, but it is catchy. Many menstruators report drinking more around their periods or ovulation. Let’s unpack drinking alcohol during your period.
There’s some evidence to show your hormones may play a role in some alcohol-seeking behavior. I know this sounds crazy but stay with us. During your cycle, your hormones are constantly changing. Some increase in concentration, others will decrease, and it’s a lot of work.
You see, your period requires a good amount of energy to perform effectively. Our brains will actually tell us to eat more carbohydrates or other sugars to create this energy… but how we interpret these cravings can change from person to person. Some people will eat candy and chocolate (hence the stereotype), others might crave pasta (another comfort food stereotype), while others crave good old sugary alcohol. So yes, your possible alcohol-induced poor choices right before your period might not be 100% your fault.
So how bad is alcohol on my menstrual cycle?
Well… It’s not the best. Alcohol has been shown to directly impair the functions of hormone-releasing glands and target tissues. Alcohol can also cause inflammation and dehydration, which is terrible for all the things… including vital organs and period cramps. Alcohol has also been shown to increase levels of estrogen and lower levels of progesterone.
Heavy drinking has been attributed to irregular menstrual cycles, menstrual cycles without ovulation (called anovulation), and the complete loss of menstruation. In addition, alcohol can cause hormonal deficiencies, fertility troubles, missed periods, failure to ovulate, and other adverse health effects that could make you think twice.
If this can happen to otherwise “healthy people,” what about those with underlying conditions like diabetes or insulin-resistant PCOS?
Well, alcohol can alter blood sugar levels – which can have deadly consequences if not monitored appropriately. In fact, small alcohol consumption combined with sugar boosts insulin secretion (a hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels) and can cause temporary low blood sugar. In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to a decreased level of consciousness and even coma.
I’m not a heavy drinker, so no need to worry, right?
Well…not so fast. Alcohol has also been shown to affect women who engage in heavier social drinking as well. In a 3-week study, some women who drank about 3 drinks per day were found to have abnormal menstrual cycles and a delay or even lack of ovulation. This was caused by reduced or absent luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. I’m sure by now, it’s becoming quite evident that alcohol may have a much more significant impact on our health than we typically give it credit for.
So, what do I do if I realize I drink more before my period?
- Run your own experiment and track your alcohol consumption to see if there is a pattern.
- Check to see if you are drinking more before your period or during ovulation. If you do, try more natural carbohydrate alternatives such as fruits, dried fruits, yogurts, whole-grain pasta, juice, and other healthy options. Consider it a peace offering to your ovaries since it gives your body what it is actually craving in a healthier way.
- Drink plenty of fluids to distract your mind. These healthier options can make your period shorter, easier, and more tolerable in general.
As you can see, alcohol use, whether acute or chronic, can result in a cascade of harmful health effects. In truth, more research on our hormones, menstrual cycle, and alcohol is warranted to fully understand the connection. Until then, it seems the old adage applies quite well here; everything is good in moderation – including alcohol.
https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh26-4/274-281.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/female-fertility/art-20045887
https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa26.htm