Diabetes & Menstrual Cycle: Everything You Need To Know

Whenever a woman is diagnosed with diabetes, she's pretty much told to just deal with it.

There's no real cure for diabetes, and while treatments can help keep the disease under control, it's still a progressive, lifelong condition. So, when it comes to learning how to manage diabetes, women are pretty much on their own.

And that's a shame, because there is so much that women need to know about diabetes, especially when it comes to their menstrual cycle.

Did you know that your menstrual cycle can have a big impact on your blood sugar levels? Or that there are certain times of the month when you're more likely to experience low blood sugar?

In this article, we're going to explore the link between diabetes and the menstrual cycle, and share everything you need to know about managing your diabetes during this time.

Let's get started!

How Does Diabetes Affect the Menstrual Cycle?

Diabetes can have a big impact on the menstrual cycle, and vice versa.

For starters, women with diabetes are more likely to experience irregular periods. This is because high blood sugar levels can interfere with the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle.

In addition, women with diabetes are also more likely to experience other menstrual irregularities, such as heavy bleeding, missed periods, and longer menstrual cycles.

These menstrual irregularities can be caused by a number of factors, including poor blood sugar control, stress, and weight gain.

Finally, women with diabetes are also at a higher risk for developing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes the ovaries to produce too much of the hormone androgen that can interfere with the development of eggs in the ovaries. 

This can lead to irregular periods, as well as other symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, and weight gain.

How Does the Menstrual Cycle Affect Diabetes?

Just as diabetes can have an impact on the menstrual cycle, the menstrual cycle can also have an impact on diabetes.

For starters, the menstrual cycle can cause changes in blood sugar levels. This is because the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle can also affect blood sugar levels.

In addition, the menstrual cycle can also affect insulin levels that help the body process blood sugar efficiently. With impact on the progesterone levels due to periods, the body gets an additional (and unnecessary) insulin boost which is bad news for diabetic menstruators. 

What Are the Best Ways to Manage Diabetes During the Menstrual Cycle?

If you have diabetes, it's important to be extra careful about your blood sugar levels during the menstrual cycle.

Here are a few tips that can help:

1. Monitor your blood sugar levels closely

Be sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly during the menstrual cycle. This will help you to catch any spikes or dips in your blood sugar levels.

2. Adjust your insulin doses as needed

If you take insulin, be sure to adjust your doses as needed during the menstrual cycle. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels under control.

3. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet is always important, but it's especially important during the menstrual cycle. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4. Exercise regularly

Exercise can help to lower blood sugar levels. Be sure to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day.

5. Reduce stress

Stress can raise blood sugar levels. Be sure to find ways to relax and reduce stress during the menstrual cycle.

Final Takeaway

Diabetes can have a big impact on the menstrual cycle, and vice versa.

If you have diabetes, it's important to be extra careful about your blood sugar levels during the menstrual cycle.

Monitoring your blood sugar levels closely, adjusting your insulin doses as needed, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and reducing stress can all help to keep your blood sugar levels under control during the menstrual cycle.