Why You Should Avoid Washing Your Hair During Menstruation: Insights from Research

Is this true?

Why shouldn't women wash their hair during menstruation? This has been a common piece of advice passed down from older generations, but when we ask why, no one seems to have a clear answer.
They simply say it's a warning based on accumulated experiences from the past, and if you don't listen, you'll understand when you get older! I always thought this was due to the poor conditions of the past, and that with modern conveniences like hair dryers, it shouldn't be a problem anymore.
However, after reading this article, I realized that it's not just about drying your hair.
Regardless of whether you are a young girl or a grown woman, you should pay attention and avoid washing your hair during this time.
Men should also take note, as it's important for the women in their lives to understand this concept.
A medical doctor who studied in Japan and focused on research found that, based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, she conducted a lifestyle survey of 30,000 cancer patients in Japan.
She discovered that the vast majority of cancer patients had extreme dietary habits.
Among her surprising findings, many patients with breast cancer and uterine cancer tended to wash their hair, lift heavy objects, or neglect postpartum care during their menstrual periods, or consume cold foods.
This led to incomplete uterine contractions and hormonal imbalances, which accumulated over time and resulted in cancer.
Due to this discovery, the doctor dedicated herself to researching physiological adjustments for women during menstruation.
She published dietary methods and lifestyle changes in Japan that helped many women recover from breast cancer, uterine cancer, and other cancers through improved diet and lifestyle, preventing further occurrences.
This method has been widely promoted in Japan, saving tens of thousands of lives each year.

The key takeaway is that women historically understood the importance of not washing their hair during menstruation and passed this knowledge down to their daughters and daughters-in-law, even if they didn't know the reasons behind it.
Many modern individuals dismiss these ancient beliefs as unscientific, but unfortunately, some have developed breast cancer as a result.

The doctor noted that women who experienced heavy menstrual bleeding in the past often avoided seeking medical help due to underdeveloped gynecological care.
They had a self-treatment method of wetting their hair, which would cause uterine contractions and stop the bleeding immediately.
Based on this principle, she concluded that during menstruation, women should not wash their hair or consume cold foods to prevent residual blood from remaining in the uterus, which could lead to hormonal imbalances and the development of breast and uterine cancer.
In addition to avoiding hair washing and cold foods, symptoms like dizziness, breast swelling, or changes in bowel movements before menstruation can be early signs of cancer.
Preventive measures include using ingredients like brown sugar, lotus root, grapes, and job's tears to make soups, which can help prevent the development of cancer cells and achieve optimal prevention.

Zhou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/05

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Currently, Western medicine has no relevant studies to confirm whether women should avoid washing their hair during menstruation.
It would be advisable to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for further insights.
Sincerely, Lu Lizheng.

Reply Date: 2005/02/05

More Info

The belief that women should avoid washing their hair during menstruation is a traditional notion that has been passed down through generations. While many people may dismiss this as an outdated superstition, there are some underlying principles rooted in both cultural practices and physiological considerations that merit discussion.

Firstly, the idea that washing hair during menstruation could be harmful is often linked to the concept of "wind" and "cold" in traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed that washing hair can expose the body to cold, which may disrupt the balance of the body's internal environment, particularly during a time when the body is already undergoing significant hormonal changes. This belief is not unique to Chinese culture; similar ideas exist in various cultures around the world, where women are advised to take extra care of their health during their menstrual periods.

From a medical standpoint, there is no direct evidence to suggest that washing hair during menstruation is harmful. In fact, maintaining personal hygiene is essential for overall health, and there is no physiological reason that would prevent a woman from washing her hair during her period. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
1. Hormonal Changes: During menstruation, hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased sensitivity in the body. Some women may experience headaches, fatigue, or mood swings. While washing hair itself may not cause these symptoms, the act of washing and drying hair could potentially exacerbate discomfort if one is already feeling unwell.

2. Temperature Regulation: After washing hair, especially if it is not dried properly, there is a risk of feeling cold, which could be uncomfortable during menstruation. This discomfort may lead some women to feel that washing their hair is not advisable during this time.

3. Cultural Practices: Many women adhere to traditional practices that have been passed down through generations. These practices often serve as a form of self-care and can provide comfort during a time when women may feel vulnerable. Respecting these traditions can be important for mental and emotional well-being.

4. Hygiene: Maintaining hygiene during menstruation is crucial. Washing hair can be part of a self-care routine that helps women feel clean and refreshed. It is essential to prioritize personal hygiene, especially during menstruation, to prevent any potential infections or irritations.

5. Individual Preferences: Ultimately, the decision to wash hair during menstruation should be based on individual comfort and preference. Some women may feel perfectly fine washing their hair, while others may prefer to wait until their period is over.

In conclusion, while the traditional advice against washing hair during menstruation may have roots in cultural beliefs and practices, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that it is harmful. Women should feel empowered to make choices that best suit their bodies and lifestyles. If a woman feels comfortable washing her hair during her period, she should do so without concern. However, if she prefers to avoid it for personal or cultural reasons, that choice should also be respected. Ultimately, the focus should be on maintaining overall health and well-being during menstruation, which includes proper hygiene and self-care practices.

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