When you’re menstruating, you might sometimes crave something refreshing like ice water. Have you ever heard that drinking ice water during menstruation can cause cysts? Find out the truth in this article.
What is a Cyst?
A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can develop inside or around the ovary, which is part of the female reproductive system. Cysts are more common in individuals aged 30–50.
Cysts can develop in one or both ovaries and can range in size from as small as a pea to as large as a tennis ball. Most cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and cause no symptoms. However, in some cases, cysts can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain (discomfort in the lower abdomen), pain during intercourse, irregular bleeding, and bloating.
Does Drinking Cold Water During Menstruation Cause Cysts?
You may have heard that drinking cold water during menstruation can cause cysts, but this is a myth. In fact, cysts are mostly formed due to irregular menstrual cycles (when periods are inconsistent). This is why cysts sometimes disappear on their own without any treatment.
Cysts can also be caused by abnormal cell reproduction, endometriosis (a condition where tissue grows outside the uterus), or pelvic inflammatory disease (an infection of the female reproductive organs). Treatment and care are necessary depending on the underlying cause of the cyst if it is due to these health conditions.
Benefits of Drinking Ice Water
Drinking cold water is often suspected of causing health issues, but it actually provides several benefits to the body, including:
Helps lower body temperature when overheated
Some studies show that drinking cold water helps lower body temperature when overheated or exercising. However, drinking cold water regularly does not help maintain a lower overall body temperature.
Helps burn extra calories
Drinking cold water helps burn a few extra body calories, but it shouldn’t be relied upon for weight loss. During digestion, the body must warm up the cold water to reach its normal temperature before using it. This process does consume a small amount of energy and can help burn a few extra calories, but the number of calories burned is not significant.
Provides a feeling of relaxation
Drinking cold water can provide a refreshing sensation, which might help relax or soothe the body. However, this effect can vary depending on the individual and the situation.
When the body is overheated or dehydrated, drinking cold or iced water can help relieve thirst and provide a fresh feeling. This can help reduce tension or anxiety associated with thirst or heat.
Drinking ice water during menstruation does not cause cysts. However, you might want to consider drinking warm water or ginger tea to relieve menstrual cramps rather than cold ice water.
If you need medical advice or consultation, consider visiting a healthcare professional or using the consultation features available in the Ai Care app, which you can download from the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr. Pandu Lesmana
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Mayo Clinic (2022). Ovarian cysts. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cysts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353405
Mayo Clinic (2022). Ovarian Cysts. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9133-ovarian-cysts
Kathryn Watson (2021). What Are the Risks and Benefits of Drinking Cold Water?. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/is-drinking-cold-water-bad-for-you
Rebecca Joy Stanborough MFA (2020). What to Know About Cold Water Therapy. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-water-therapy
SaVanna Shoemaker, MS, RDN, LD (2021). The 8 Best Teas for Menstrual Cramps. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tea-for-cramps