Period pain? This could be why

Warmth is medicine. Science agrees.

You’ve probably seen it: ice baths are the latest wellness trend, with everyone from influencers to major news outlets touting their benefits, ranging from improved recovery times to reduced inflammation.

Sounds cool. Literally. Unless you’re a woman.

In many ancient healing traditions, like Traditional Chinese Medicine and Indian Ayurveda, our bodies are meant to stay warm during specific life stages and menstrual cycle periods.

Turns out, for anyone with a uterus, regularly shocking your body with freezing temps might be doing more harm than good. A recent study showed that long-term intermittent cold exposure affects peri-ovarian adipose tissue and ovarian microenvironment in rats.

In less scientific terms: cold exposure can have adverse effects on the female reproductive system, affecting ovarian functions and hormone secretion.

Not great news for your cycle, your energy, or your overall vibe.

Periods & Cold: A Risky Combo

Yes, cold can reduce swelling—but it also constricts blood vessels. That can result in more painful menstrual cramps. In fact, a 2022 meta‑analysis found that cold exposure during menstruation may increase cramps and discomfort. So while ice baths may soothe muscle pain, they might make your period worse.

As a teenager, I was warned by the “elders” (a.k.a. my mom and grandma) to avoid cold drinks because they would give me cramps during my period. 

Naturally, I didn’t listen.

Annoyingly, they were right.

Every time, I’d regret that Grande Caramel Frappuccino I had the day before my period—too late, of course, as I’d already be curled up on the bathroom floor with cramps.

Eventually, I learned to avoid cold drinks before and during my periods. My grandma would tell me to avoid cold drinks at all times, but a girl’s gotta live.

Maybe just skip the frappuccino during your luteal phase.

Ice Chips After Birth: A Horror Story

Both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Indian Ayurveda emphasize warm, hearty foods during postpartum to support healing and vitality.

So imagine the horror when we heard stories of how – in western hospitals – you are handed nothing but cups of ice chips to chew on before, during, and after birth.

Not soup. Not broth. 

Just a sad little cup of crushed ice like you’re recovering from wisdom teeth surgery instead of, you know, delivering a whole human.

That’s not recovery. That’s neglect wrapped in a hospital gown.

So, are you Team Ice Chips or Team Real Healing?

Because if you want a postpartum experience that supports your body and honors what you just did, it’s time to get clear on what you really need. 

Take the Mother First Quiz here.

It’s free, fun, and comes with personalized tips that put you at the center of your healing.

Warmth > Ice Chips,

Maggie