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Feeling lightheaded during your periods? 5 reasons that could be behind it

Apart from cramps and mood swings, many women also complain of lightheadedness during their period. Here are some reasons behind it.
lightheaded before period
Been feeling dizzy during your period? Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Shreya Gupta Updated: 30 Oct 2023, 16:01 pm IST
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Ask any woman and she’ll tell you that periods are a necessary evil. From painful cramps to the mood swings, everything only causes a menstruating woman to feel irritable. There are, however, many women who also complain of feeling lightheaded!

Have you been experiencing lightheadedness during your periods and don’t know why? Well, we’re here to tell you that it is definitely not the most common thing experienced by women during their periods but it is also not something you need to be concerned about.

The reasons behind experiencing dizziness when you’re menstruating can be many but most are related to hormonal changes. Here are 5 potential reasons why you feel lightheaded during your period:

1. Cramps

The worst part about periods is also probably the culprit behind dizziness. Now, we know that menstrual cramps range from mild to severe. When the pain gets so bad that you can’t even move, you might end up feeling lightheaded.

2. Anaemia

Anaemia, the deficiency of iron, is a condition where your body fails to produce and maintain healthy red blood cells. A heavy period flow can contribute towards the development of anaemia and result in you feeling light-headed.

Also, listen:

3. Period-related migraine

It is estimated that about 60 per cent of women get affected by migraine during their periods and the hormones are to be blamed. The fluctuating levels of estrogen can trigger a migraine attack which can be accompanied by light-headedness.

4. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a severe form of PMS. PMDD makes the symptoms of PMS severe enough to disrupt your daily life. PMDD might be the reason behind you feeling lightheaded and you should speak to your doctor for a diagnosis.

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5. Low blood pressure

Low blood pressure is one of the most common reasons behind dizziness and your blood pressure can fall considerably during your periods. According to a study published in Hormone Molecular Biology and Clinical Investigation, sex hormones regulate your blood pressure which causes the sensation of lightheadedness or dizziness.

lightheaded before period
Periods can be really traumatizing if your blood pressure isn’t in control. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Sex hormones like testosterone are known to raise blood pressure. On the other hand, estrogen has been shown to decrease it. During your period, estrogen levels are high and can significantly lower your blood pressure which can lead to light-headedness.

You shouldn’t feel worried about lightheadedness during your periods but should definitely speak to a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.

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About the Author

Finding nirvana in good food, Shreya also loves reading books and is a die-hard Potterhead. Confident and motivated she's fun to be with. Plus food. Always. ...Read More

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