Is Low Blood Pressure Related to Menstruation? the Connection

Is low blood pressure related to menstruation?

Hello, doctor: I have a question.
I took my child to the park to sketch on the weekend, and there happened to be a charity event for building a cancer hospital, which included free blood pressure checks.
I took the opportunity to check my blood pressure, but both the systolic and diastolic readings were very low, below 100.
The nurse mentioned that it was too low.
However, I just started my menstrual period, and I sometimes feel a bit dizzy.
Doctor, is there a connection between low blood pressure and menstruation? Also, what is perineal massage? I haven't heard of it before; I just heard about it from my sister.

huanzhe, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/11/03

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Blood pressure should be measured regularly and recorded for accuracy.
If blood pressure is too low during menstruation, it is important to rest more.
Perineal massage is primarily used for pregnant women; during pregnancy, massaging the perineal area can help reduce the risk of vaginal tearing during delivery.

Reply Date: 2013/11/03

More Info

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can indeed be related to menstruation, and understanding this connection requires a look into the physiological changes that occur during the menstrual cycle.
During menstruation, women experience hormonal fluctuations, particularly in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones can influence blood vessel dilation and fluid balance in the body. For instance, estrogen can cause blood vessels to relax and widen, which may lead to a decrease in blood pressure. Additionally, during menstruation, there is often an increase in prostaglandins, which are compounds that can cause blood vessels to dilate and may also lead to increased uterine contractions. This can contribute to a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if blood pressure is already on the lower side.

Moreover, menstrual bleeding can lead to a loss of blood volume, which can further contribute to lower blood pressure. If a woman has heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), this can exacerbate the situation, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. In your case, if you were experiencing low blood pressure readings during your menstrual period, it is plausible that the combination of hormonal changes and potential blood loss could be contributing factors.

It is also important to consider other factors that can influence blood pressure during menstruation. Dehydration, stress, and inadequate nutrition can all play a role. If you were out in the park, possibly under the sun, and not adequately hydrated, this could also lead to lower blood pressure readings.
If you frequently experience dizziness or lightheadedness during your menstrual cycle, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your overall health, menstrual history, and any other underlying conditions you may have. They might also check for conditions such as anemia, which can occur due to heavy menstrual bleeding and can further contribute to feelings of dizziness and low blood pressure.

Regarding your question about perineal massage, this is a technique often discussed in the context of childbirth preparation. It involves massaging the perineum (the area between the vagina and the anus) to help stretch the tissue and potentially reduce the risk of tearing during delivery. While it is not directly related to blood pressure or menstruation, it is a practice some women may consider as part of their prenatal care.

In summary, low blood pressure can indeed be related to menstruation due to hormonal changes and potential blood loss. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your blood pressure, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.

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