The thought of dealing with the ebb and flow of your hormones is enough to make you tired, but your period adds to the problem. Sometimes they exhaust you to the point where you don’t feel like working through the day. Did you know that fatigue is a common symptom of periods? Along with moodiness, bloating, and headaches, period fatigue is one of the most common symptoms women face during menstruation.

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Asha R. Dalal, who is a mentor in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre to understand the common reasons why you might feel tired during your periods.

Reasons why your periods make you feel tired

Dr Dalal defines period fatigue as a “lack of energy and extreme tiredness just before or during a period”. Here are some of the common reasons why people feel tired during their periods:

1. Low oestrogen levels

Period fatigue usually due to the decrease in the hormone oestrogen. “This may be a part of premenstrual syndrome or PMS. This feeling lasts till the oestrogen levels start picking up at the end of the periods,” says the expert.

2. Heavy bleeding

This is another reason why you may experience period fatigue. The expert says that this happens because of fibroids, polyps, or a hormonal imbalance. In some cases, a hormonal imbalance can lead to excess development of endometrium (buildup in the lining of the uterus) and lead to heavy menstrual bleeding. Abnormal uterine bleeding can also cause fatigue, adds the doctor. It is best to talk to a doctor to avoid complications.

3. Anaemia

It is a condition in which your body lacks healthy red blood cells that help carry oxygen to other tissues of the body. As per Dr Dalal, anemia can also lead to period fatigue. This may be because of excessive bleeding or may be due to inadequate intake of iron.

4. Unhealthy diet

Eating a diet low in nutrition can also lead to period fatigue, says the doctor. It is best you eat foods high in iron, protein, omega-3, magnesium, and calcium and contains anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Lack of sleep

We tend to underestimate how much sleep affects our health. Did you know lack of sleep can also increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, obesity and depression? While the pain and the mood swings may disrupt your sleep schedule, try to get naps whenever you can. Lack of sleep can contribute to period fatigue.

Dr Dalal further points out that sometimes all these factors play a role and lead to fatigue during periods. If you are experiencing fatigue because of your periods, connect with a doctor to avoid complications.