Why Period Pain Feels Worse in Winter - and How to Ease It Naturally

If you’ve ever noticed your period feeling more painful or exhausting during the winter months, you’re not imagining it. Cold weather affects more than just how many layers we put on — it can also influence your menstrual cycle, hormone balance, and overall mood.

Less sunlight, colder temperatures, and seasonal stress can all make period pain and premenstrual symptoms (PMS) feel worse. Here’s why that happens — and how you can support your body naturally this season.

How Cold Weather Affects Your Menstrual Cycle

Reduced sunlight impacts your hormones - With fewer daylight hours, serotonin levels can drop, leading to mood swings, fatigue, and increased irritability before your period. This is especially noticeable for those prone to PMS or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Cold temperatures constrict blood flow - When it’s chilly, blood vessels tighten, which can reduce circulation to your pelvic area. This often leads to stronger cramps and aches during menstruation.

Winter stress and low energy take a toll - The end of the year can be busier and more stressful than usual, while shorter days can leave you feeling sluggish. Both stress and tiredness can worsen period pain and bloating by affecting hormonal balance.

Natural Ways to Ease Period Pain in Winter
Supporting your cycle through winter doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple habits can make a big difference:

Drink warming, soothing drinks:

• Herbal Infusions like our Over The Moon tea, with ingredients like chamomile, raspberry leaf, and spearmint, can improve circulation, reduce inflammation, regulate hormones and ease cramps naturally.
• Hot Chocolates with a high cacao content are full of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and bloating. Cacao is also a good source of serotonin and phenylethlamine, linked to stress management and mood. Both And Breathe, and Collagen Calm hot chocolate contain 41% Cacao, for a delicious chocolatey hit, with added benefits for your cycle and wellbeing.

Keep cosy and warm:

• Using heat packs or sipping hot drinks can relax tense muscles and boost comfort.

Get outside for daylight and movement: 

• Even a short winter walk helps to regulate hormones, lift mood, and improve circulation.

Prioritise rest and comfort:

•  Listen to your body’s signals — extra rest during your period supports energy restoration and hormone balance.

Supporting your cycle during the Winter months
Your cycle is sensitive to the seasons, and winter is often a time when our bodies need extra kindness. By staying warm, managing stress, and supporting your body with natural remedies like gentle movement, herbal teas, hot chocolate, and rest - can help to ease painful periods bloating, and help you to feel more balanced throughout the colder months.

Every mindful pause, and every moment of self‑care helps your body adapt more gently to winter’s colder, darker days — keeping you nourished and grounded through every stage of your cycle.