Sauna During Your Period: Is It Safe? | A Complete Guide

Is using a sauna during your period safe and beneficial? Discover how heat can soothe cramps and affect your cycle. Learn everything you need to know for a safe and pleasant relaxation experience in a Pixxla sauna.

Introduction

The menstrual cycle is a natural and integral part of life for many women, but it often brings discomfort, pain, and mood swings. In an effort to find relief and a space for regeneration, many women ask: "Is it safe to go to the sauna during my period?" This is a valid question, and the answer is not a simple yes or no. It's a topic surrounded by many myths, half-truths, and a lack of clear information.

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Practical Recommendations

If you decide to use a sauna during your period, the keys are hygiene, hydration, and listening to your body.

  • Hygiene First: Use a suitable sanitary product, ideally a menstrual cup or a tampon. Pads are not suitable for the sauna. Always take a thorough shower before and after your sauna session.
  • Hydration is Crucial: During menstruation, the body loses fluids, and the sauna accelerates this process. Drink plenty of water before, during (in the rest phase), and after your sauna session.
  • Start Slowly: If you don't feel 100%, choose a lower bench or a shorter stay in the sauna (e.g., 8-10 minutes). An infrared sauna with its lower temperature can be a more pleasant option.
  • Avoid the Sauna During Heavy Flow: During the first, heaviest days of your cycle, the heat can cause even more intense bleeding and feelings of weakness. It might be better to skip the sauna on these days.
  • Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or your cramps worsen, leave the sauna immediately, cool down, and rest.

1. Clinical studies and evidence

Pain Relief (Dysmenorrhea)
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research found that the local application of heat (e.g., with a hot water bottle) was as effective at relieving menstrual cramps as commonly available analgesics (ibuprofen). The sauna works on a similar principle, but applies heat to the entire body.
Link to the study
Impact on Mood and Relaxation
Research confirms that exposing the body to heat stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin. These neurotransmitters have analgesic effects and contribute to an improved mood and a sense of relaxation, which can help alleviate the psychological symptoms associated with PMS and menstruation.
Link to the study

2. Mechanism of effect of sauna use

Muscle Relaxation and Cramp Relief: Heat causes blood vessels to widen (vasodilation), which increases blood flow to muscles, including the uterine muscles. Improved circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients, helps to release muscle tension, and thus alleviates painful cramps.
Analgesic Effect (Pain Relief): Heat stimulates thermoreceptors in the skin. These signals can "override" pain signals in the nervous system, thereby reducing the perception of pain. This phenomenon is known as the "gate control theory of pain."
Psychological Well-being: The release of endorphins due to heat acts as a natural painkiller and antidepressant. This can help with irritability, anxiety, and other emotional manifestations associated with menstruation.

3. Patient experiences and expert videos

Menstrual cramps and irritability significantly decreased after using an infrared sauna
Bria has been using Relax Sauna for 5 years. Her parents and their clinic own the Relax Sauna. “I started using it and noticed a lot better sleep. Very deep sleep.”
Treatment of the uterus with a steam sauna | Temazcal, sauna and ozone sauna
Figuring out how to cure endometriosis, get rid of menstrual pain and balance the menstrual cycle was the way to go.

4. Risks and limitations

  • Dehydration: There is an increased risk due to fluid loss from both sweating and menstruation.
  • Dizziness and Drop in Blood Pressure: Heat widens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. For women who naturally have lower blood pressure, this can lead to dizziness, especially during heavier bleeding.
  • Increased Bleeding: As mentioned, heat can temporarily increase blood flow.

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5. Link to other articles

Ako sa správne saunovať?
Ako často chodiť do sauny
Detská imunita a saunovanie
History and Culture of Sauna

6. Summary (scientific)

Although direct clinical studies on sauna use during menstruation are lacking, existing evidence on thermotherapy suggests a positive effect on primary dysmenorrhea. The mechanism of action involves vasodilation and subsequent muscle relaxation of the uterus, as well as the modulation of pain perception via thermoreceptors. The hormonal response to heat, particularly the release of endorphins, can alleviate psychological symptoms. The main risks, such as hypotension and dehydration, are slightly increased during menstruation and require heightened caution and sufficient hydration.

Summary in human language

If you experience pain, tension, or mood swings during menstruation, the sauna may bring you relief. Heat relaxes muscles, calms the mind, and improves overall well-being. However, it is important to listen to your body and decide based on how you feel.

So, Is It a Yes or No?

The answer is: Yes, but with caution.

  • For relieving cramps and improving mood? Definitely yes. Heat works as a natural pain reliever.
  • During the first and heaviest days? It's better to be cautious or take a break.
  • The key is: Always use a tampon or menstrual cup, drink plenty of water, and start with a shorter time at a lower temperature.
  • The most important rule: If you don't feel well, don't push it. Your body will best tell you when the right time is to relax in the heat.

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FAQ.

How to get here and where to park?

Once you have made your booking, you will receive a file with detailed instructions, including how to get to the sauna you have booked and where to park.

What should I bring?

We currently offer two types of reservations for most saunas:

Customers are advised to bring flip-flops, slippers or other light footwear.

Remember to also bring your own water and be sure to take a drink. We recommend drinking up to 1.5 litres of water per person during the sauna session.
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This sauna concept does not have a rest room, so you can relax on the terrace. If you don't like the cold, you can also bring a blanket to wrap yourself in between sauna cycles.

Can I take a shower with you?

Our sauna represents a return to traditional sauna culture, which means you won't find showers in our facilities. Instead, we offer a cool of in the cold plunge pool. This way is not only eco-friendly, but also refreshing and authentic.

It is important that our visitors do not use shampoos or shower gels in the lake to protect the natural environment. Please bring a towel and tarp and don't forget to drink. We recommend drinking at least 1.5 litres of water per person while in the sauna.

Can I make a reservation if I am under 18?

Reservations can only be made by persons over 18 years of age. This is to ensure safety and to comply with the rules of our facilities. Younger persons may only visit the sauna when accompanied by an adult. This is necessary to ensure the comfort and safety of all our visitors.

Can children sauna?

Yes, children can use the sauna, but only when accompanied by an adult. Our sauna is the ideal environment to introduce children to sauna use, as you can regulate the temperature yourself. We do not recommend that children under 3 years of age visit the sauna, as their bodies are not yet fully adapted to the high temperatures. Children over the age of 3 can use the sauna, but their comfort must be taken into account and the time spent in the sauna must be limited. Parents should monitor how the child feels and adapt the sauna to the child's individual needs.

Can alcohol be consumed in the sauna?

Consumption of alcohol in the sauna is strictly prohibited. Alcohol can significantly increase the risk of dehydration and collapse at high temperatures, which can be dangerous to your health. We recommend that you follow a drinking regime and consume only non-alcoholic beverages to ensure your safety and comfort while in the sauna.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?

Yes, you can cancel your reservation, but there are conditions. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time to receive a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the scheduled time, a refund will not be possible. For detailed information on cancellation and refunds, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website.

What is the optimum temperature?

The optimum temperature for sauna bathing is between 80 °C and 100 °C. This temperature ensures effective overheating of the body, leading to maximum health effects such as detoxification, improved blood circulation and muscle relaxation. For beginners or children, it is recommended to start at a lower temperature and gradually increase it according to tolerance. Always be mindful of your comfort and your body's response. We asked this question to the Finns who voted in our poll and you can see the results at this link.

Do I have to book the sauna in advance?

It is advised to create a reservation in advance to have secured spot.

What are the payment options?

We accept a variety of payment methods to provide you with the greatest convenience when paying. The following payment methods are currently available:
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VISA
MasterCard
Google Pay
Apple Pay
Bitcoin
Bank transfer

These options allow you to choose the most suitable payment method according to your preferences.
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