“Sleep deprivation even just changing one or two time zones can really mess with your circadian rhythms.
And your circadian rhythms can also influence your internal hormone levels,” Dr. Donnica Moore toldInsider.
Stress plays a role, too.
Traveling is supposed to be a relaxing experience, but it can still take a toll on your body.
Just think about all the planning that goes into it!
Both physical and emotional stress affects the hypothalamus, messing up your hormones, explains Dr. Moore.
Traveling to another country can also throw your gut out of whack, notes theAmerican Physiological Society.
As a result, you may experience diarrhea, constipation, food cravings, or diminished appetite.
When you’re traveling, you may also see some changes in your period.
Your menstruation may be irregular, shorter, or more painful.
“Travel involves stress for many women.
But that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
Even a short vacation can impact the hormones that regulate ovulation, sleep, and appetite.
These changes are more likely to occur when you’re traveling across time zones.
Any disruption in your sleep-wake cycle can affect melatonin levels, explains Dr. Anita Mitra (viaQuartz).
Melatonin, the so-called sleep hormone, regulates your internal clock.
The circadian rhythm influences estrogen and progesterone levels, according toThe Hewitt Fertility Center.
These hormones play a key role in ovulation, so even the slightest imbalance canaffect your period.
You may also experience mood swings, fatigue, stomach upset, and decreased appetite.
Try not to panic if you’re having a late period, spotting, or tummy pain.
The changes you’re going through are perfectly normal.
Your body needs time to adjust to its surroundings.
The stress of traveling can throw off your period
As mentioned earlier, travel also increases stress.
You have to pack your luggage, create an itinerary,find accommodations, and more.
Your diet plays a role, too.
Chances are, you’ll try new foods or drink more than usual while on a vacation.
These small changes can throw off your hormones and mess up your period, explainsThe Hewitt Fertility Center.
Most importantly, take it easy and listen to your body.
To stay on the safe side, bring a box of tampons or pads with you.
Ideally, start taking a daily probiotic for at least one week prior to your departure.
He also recommends taking probiotics daily for one week after you return home.
