How to Induce a Period: Natural Methods, Medications, Risks -

There are few evidence-based natural methods that may induce a period. But there may be lifestyle changes that can help regulate an irregular menstrual cycle. Here’s what the research and experts say.

Exercise

There is no research showing that exercise can induce a period. There are anecdotal reports that stretching or yoga may help regulate the menstrual cycle, but it hasn’t been studied enough to make conclusions one way or the other.

Vigorous exercise can sometimes cause spotting, but not a true menstrual cycle, Dr. Delcore says. If that happens, it could be a sign of endometrial polyps (a noncancerous growth attached to the inner wall of the uterus), uterine lining shedding not from your normal period, or venous stasis (slow blood flow in the veins), so you should see a doctor.

Orgasm

An orgasm causes the pelvic floor tissues, cervix (the part of the uterus that connects to the vagina), and possibly the uterus to contract. This contraction might cause your period to start early, though only one or two days, Delcore says.

Herbal Supplements

There is some anecdotal evidence that specific herbs may induce a period, but there’s no substantial research to back up these claims, Delcore says.

The herbs that are said to induce a period include:

Black Cohosh Black cohosh, an herb that grows in North America, is often used as a supplement for menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and to induce labor.

The herb is also sometimes used to treat menstrual irregularities.

Black cohosh was thought to mimic estrogen (a hormone that controls the menstrual cycle), which could potentially aid in menstrual cycle regulation, though this is not supported by research.

It’s unclear whether black cohosh is safe for women who have had hormone-related cancers such as breast or uterine cancer. Moreover, there have been reports of liver damage in people taking black cohosh supplements, though it’s unclear whether the herb itself was responsible.

Consult your healthcare provider before taking black cohosh supplements.
Dong Quai Also known as “female ginseng,” dong quai is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat irregular menstrual cycles, infrequent periods, and PMS.

Dong quai is said to stimulate uterine contractions, which could help induce a period, though there isn’t sufficient research to bear this out. In addition, dong quai may interact with blood thinners, make you more sensitive to sunlight, and cause skin inflammation and rashes. There’s also concern that it may be unsafe for people who are at risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer.

To be safe, talk to a doctor before taking dong quai supplements.

Stress Reduction

Stress can have a negative effect on the menstrual cycle by increasing endorphins (brain chemicals that act as painkillers) and cortisol (a stress hormone), which interrupt sex hormone production.

Delcore says spikes in cortisol are expected at times, but chronic and sustained stress throws off your system. “That’s what really seems to wreak havoc on our body at the cellular level, and it definitely wreaks havoc on our reproductive health,” Delcore says.

Reducing stress through deep breathing, meditation, and light exercise is beneficial for overall health, including menstrual health. Though stress reduction strategies are not specifically recommended for inducing periods, Dr. Meadows says. But reducing stress might help regulate your menstrual cycle if your period is consistently late or absent.

Healthy Sleep Habits

Unhealthy sleep patterns can negatively impact the menstrual cycle, Delcore says. Someone who doesn’t get enough quality sleep or has an erratic sleep schedule may experience abnormal bleeding or an irregular menstrual cycle, she says.

The link between sleep and menstrual disturbances is not fully understood. It may be that irregular sleep impacts circadian rhythms (body processes that follow a 24-hour cycle), which can lead to irregular menstrual cycles.

Adopting habits that promote a healthy sleep schedule — such as not looking at screens before bed, having a regular bedtime, and keeping bedrooms cool and dark — may not induce a period. But it can improve overall health, which is good for your menstrual cycle. “You can’t expect to be healthy if you’re not doing these habits,” Delcore notes.

Hydration

There is little evidence that hydration impacts the menstrual cycle, Delcore says. “Hydration itself wouldn’t induce a period,” she says.

Certainly, if you were so severely dehydrated that you became ill, you’d be unable to have a period, Delcore notes. Severe dehydration typically occurs after extensive exercise, in hot weather, and when you’re not drinking enough water. Your menstrual cycle is unlikely to be affected by the mild to moderate dehydration most people may experience on a daily basis.

Source link