\n<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was a mouse study, so it can generate hypotheses about inflammation and reproductive tissues,\u201d said Dr Badaruddin. \u201cBut it does not prove that standard human cold plunges harm fertility, cycles or hormones. At this stage, the evidence is not strong enough to say that routine, controlled cold plunges disrupt women’s hormones or menstrual cycles in humans.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
On the contrary, said Dr Badaruddin, \u201csome human reports suggest cold-water exposure may even improve symptoms such as mood changes and hot flashes\u201d in perimenopausal and menopausal women.<\/p>\n
Dr Kwee agreed that for this group of women, cold exposure can feel temporarily relieving, especially for symptoms such as hot flashes. \u201cHowever, there is currently no strong evidence that cold exposure improves or worsens the underlying hormonal changes driving menopause,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Having said that, the hypothalamic\u2013pituitary\u2013ovarian axis that regulates menstrual cycles is sensitive to stress, said Dr Kwee. \u201cCold exposure, particularly if it is very intense or prolonged, can act as a physical stressor. Theoretically, repeated or extreme exposure could influence hormonal regulation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Still, Dr Kwee noted, \u201cthere is no strong clinical evidence linking typical cold plunge practices to menstrual disruption\u201d at present. \u201cOverall, women do not need to avoid cold plunges entirely but a moderate, controlled approach is advisable, especially for those who are more sensitive to stress or experiencing hormonal shifts.\u201d<\/p>\n
Generally, begin with a warm environment like a sauna or heated pool, suggested Tania Taylor, the founder and co-CEO of Bodhi Spa at The Laurus, Resorts World Sentosa. This can be followed by a brief cold plunge and finished with a rest period. Do this before your massage, so your muscles are relaxed and more receptive to the benefits of a rubdown, she suggested.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n