Physician-Explained Methods to Overcome the '3 Major Menstrual Worries of Summer'

Summer is a season filled with exciting plans like beach trips, swimming, and travel. However, with increased outings, many women find their periods overlapping with these plans. Common summer-related menstrual concerns include, 'My period might overlap with my beach or pool schedule,' 'I'm worried about discomfort due to sweat during my period,' and 'It's difficult to deal with menstrual pain while out.' Under the supervision of a physician, we will share countermeasures to solve these '3 Major Summer Menstrual Worries.' Expert-Supervised Points to Overcome the '3 Major Summer Menstrual Worries' Concern ①: My period might overlap with my beach or pool schedule! Consider 'Menstrual Cycle Adjustment' When you want to avoid your period overlapping with special plans like beach trips, swimming, or travel, one option is to consult a doctor and use pills to shift your period timing. 'Menstrual cycle adjustment' refers to shifting the timing of your period by taking low-dose or medium-dose birth control pills. Many people consult doctors to align their periods with important events like trips or special occasions. In fact, data from Clinic For shows that demand for this service surges by approximately two times (Note 1) leading up to the summer holidays, indicating that many are considering it before long vacations. However, because the timing to start medication varies based on 'when your event is' and 'your current menstrual cycle,' it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible, rather than at the last minute. While going to a hospital might feel cumbersome, Clinic For offers online consultations, allowing you to be seen from the comfort of your home in your spare time. To spend your important events as comfortably as possible, don't give up on your plans—learn about these options and enjoy your summer events! Note 1: Comparison of transaction volume between June and August 2025. Concern ②: I'm worried about 'menstrual discomfort/chafing' due to sweat! Prepare with 'comfortable summer-friendly menstrual products' and blood flow management before skin problems occur. During summer, high temperatures and humidity make it easy to sweat, which can lead to chafing and discomfort inside underwear during your period. Prolonged dampness can lead to skin issues like itching or rashes, so caution is necessary. Countermeasures include changing pads frequently, choosing breathable underwear, and avoiding tight-fitting clothing to keep the area dry. Recently, there has been an increase in pads specifically designed for comfort in summer, so finding one that fits you is a good idea. Additionally, taking low-dose birth control pills can help reduce menstrual flow, which may lead to reduced discomfort and chafing. If symptoms like redness, pain, or intense itching persist, do not self-diagnose and consult a medical institution. Concern ③: It's hard to deal with menstrual pain while out in summer! Prepare painkillers in advance; the key is 'taking them before the pain peaks!' Consult a doctor if pain is difficult to manage every month. For menstrual pain, it is important to take painkillers early, as soon as you feel like 'it might start hurting soon,' rather than waiting until you 'cannot bear the pain anymore.' Menstrual pain is linked to pain-inducing substances called prostaglandins. Painkillers work by suppressing the production of these substances. If taken after a large amount is already produced, they may feel less effective. Therefore, taking them before the pain substances increase—rather than waiting until the pain is severe—can help prevent the worsening of menstrual cramps. During summer trips and events, it is recommended to have painkillers prepared in advance so you aren't caught off guard while out. Also, if menstrual pain is consistently difficult to manage every month, low-dose birth control pills or mini-pills are recommended. It is advisable to consult a doctor. Explaining the Method of 'Menstrual Cycle Adjustment' What is menstrual cycle adjustment? If your period is scheduled to overlap with important plans such as weddings, travel, or sports, you can use pills to speed up or delay it. Usually, medium-dose pills are used for this. Because these contain more estrogen than low-dose pills, they can shift your menstrual cycle. As it requires adjustment based on your schedule, it is recommended to consult a doctor early if you are anxious about a potential overlap as soon as your plans are finalized. To shift your next period, you take medium-dose pills to delay it. How to take: Start taking them 5–7 days before your next scheduled period. Continue until the last day of the event you want to avoid your period on. After you stop taking them, your period will generally start in about 2 days. Please note that the success rate of this method is lower if you start taking the pills immediately before your expected period date. Basically, use medium-dose pills to speed up your period.