Is Fainting During Your Period Normal?

In this article, we’ll explore whether fainting during your period is something to be concerned about. We’ll explain why you might feel faint during your period, look at common causes and discuss whether it is a normal symptom to experience. We’ll also explore potential ways to prevent fainting and when it might be a good idea to speak to a doctor if you’re worried. If you are concerned about any symptoms you experience during your period, it is important to speak to your doctor for further advice.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about fainting during your period:

• Dizziness can be common during menstruation; however, fainting is not a typical symptom and should be taken seriously. Regular fainting could indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.

• Feeling faint during your period can be caused by a number of factors, including hormonal changes, heavy blood loss, poor circulation, low blood sugar, iron deficiency and conditions such as vasovagal syncope or high prostaglandin levels.

• The treatment you need for faintness during your period will depend on what causes it. Nausea and dizziness medications can help, as can lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated and reducing stress levels.

• Preventing faintness during a period can be difficult; however, you should consider drinking plenty of water and using ibuprofen to reduce prostaglandin inflammation.

• If you experience fainting during your period, you should consult with your doctor. They will be able to advise on treatment and identify the cause of the issue.

Is fainting during your period normal?

Fainting during your period is not normal

Fainting during your period is not considered to be a common symptom and should be taken seriously if you experience it regularly. 

Dizziness during your period is a common symptom

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy during your period can be common due to blood circulation or hormonal changes; fainting can indicate an underlying health issue that should be checked by a doctor [1].

As dizziness is a common symptom to experience whilst you are on your period, there are a number of different treatment options that a doctor may explore if it is causing you lots of issues. Treatments and lifestyle changes for dizziness during your period include [2]: 

• Nausea medications such as domperidone

• Staying hydrated

• Reducing stress

• Ensuring you get plenty of sleep

If your dizziness is linked to a condition called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), then you may be prescribed antidepressants or contraceptive pills. Similarly, if you struggle with anaemia, you may be given iron supplements, or if your dizziness is linked to Ménière’s disease, then you may be given specific medications or physical therapies to treat it.

As mentioned, fainting is not considered normal during your period. If you find that you are fainting frequently while you are on your period, then it is important that you consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to you and your condition. Your doctor will be able to assess you and find the underlying cause of this symptom.

Why might you feel faint during your period?

There are a number of reasons why you may feel faint during your period. During a period, your body experiences a number of different changes, many of which can have profound effects on your wellbeing. Below are some of the most common causes of nausea and feeling faint during your period.

Hormonal changes

During your period, your hormones will fluctuate, particularly oestrogen and progesterone [3]. This can affect your blood pressure and circulation, which will sometimes lead to feelings of faintness or dizziness.

Loss of blood during heavier periods

When your period is heavier than usual, you may lose up to twice as much blood as you normally would [4]. This will reduce your overall blood volume, causing a drop in blood pressure, which may make you feel faint or lightheaded.

Poor blood circulation around your body

You may also experience issues with hydration during your period, as well as low blood pressure. Both of these symptoms can make it harder for your body to maintain an adequate supply of blood to the brain. This can make you feel faint or lightheaded.

Medications that you are taking

Certain medications you may be taking for a number of different conditions can cause side effects, including lightheadedness and feeling faint. If you are experiencing any side effects while using a medication, you may wish to consult with your doctor. Faintness during your period can be caused by medications that affect your blood pressure or hydration.

Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are chemicals that are released during your period that cause the uterus to contract. High levels of prostaglandins can cause excessive inflammation, which leads to cramps and heavy bleeding, both of which can cause dizziness or fainting [5]. 

Vasovagal Syncope

Vasovagal syncope is a condition that causes fainting when someone experiences a trigger. Common triggers include pain, stress or the sight of blood [6]. This causes a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to fainting. Heavy bleeding or period pain can trigger this condition.

Low blood sugar

Hormonal changes during your period can also affect your blood sugar levels, in some cases leading to low blood sugar known as hypoglycaemia. If not managed properly, hypoglycaemia can cause dizziness and even fainting [7].

Iron-deficiency

Blood loss during your period, particularly when it is heavy, can result in a condition called iron-deficiency anaemia. When your body does not get enough iron, or when iron is lost through bleeding, it struggles to produce red blood cells, which can lead to weakness, dizziness and fainting [8]. 

Can I prevent fainting during my period?

If you are struggling with fainting whilst you are on your period, it is important to consult with your doctor. They will be able to provide you with advice on preventing it and identify the cause of the issue. Once the cause is found, measures can be put in place to help permanently prevent them.

U by Kotex, who offer period advice, have experts that advise the following for preventing fainting during periods:

• Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your period

• Use ibuprofen to help lower prostate inflammation

• Speak to your doctor for advice

Should I speak to my doctor if I'm concerned about fainting during my period?

Yes, it is important to speak to your doctor if you are concerned about fainting during your period. Occasional dizziness or nausea during your period is normal; however, fainting is not. Fainting could be a sign of an underlying health condition and should be checked by a doctor. 

Sources

[1] Is it normal to faint during your period? - avogel

[2] Lightheaded and dizzy on period: Causes and treatments - Medical News Today

[3] The Normal Menstrual Cycle and the Control of Ovulation - Endotext - NCBI Bookshelf.

[4] Signs you are losing too much blood during your period - Medical News Today.

[5] Prostaglandins: What are they? - Medical News Today

[6] Vasovagal Syncope: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment - Healthline.

[7] Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms, causes, and treatment - Medical News Today

[8] Iron deficiency anaemia - NHS.