Hair Wash During Periods: Does washing your hair on the first day of your period really increase bleeding? What do doctors say?
- bySherya
- 18 Jul, 2026
Period Myths: Women are often given various pieces of advice by their elders. The most common one is that they should not wash their hair on the first day of their period, as it increases bleeding.

Should hair be washed during periods or not?
Can We Wash Hair On First Day Of Period: During periods, women are often given various kinds of advice by the elders in the house. The most common one is that one should not wash hair on the first day of periods, as it increases bleeding or causes more pain. But is this really true? According to doctors, there is no solid scientific evidence behind this belief. Washing hair during periods is considered completely safe. Yes, some women may experience mild discomfort due to hormonal changes.
low levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones
According to Dr. Kalyani Banerjee, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone in the body decrease during menstruation. This is when the inner lining of the uterus sheds, causing bleeding. Some women may experience cramps, fatigue, and mild changes in body temperature. These hormonal changes also affect the scalp, causing hair to become oilier or the scalp to become slightly sensitive.
The relationship between washing and menstrual bleeding
Doctors say there's no direct link between washing your hair and menstrual bleeding. Period bleeding is entirely controlled by hormones and uterine processes. Washing your hair, bathing, or pouring water over your head doesn't increase or decrease bleeding. However, washing your hair with very cold water can temporarily make you feel colder. Some women may experience headaches, mild chills, or slightly increased cramps. However, these effects are temporary and don't affect the menstrual cycle.
It is important to take care of these things.
Maintaining good hygiene during your period is crucial. Washing your hair removes excess oil and dirt from your scalp, which can refresh your mood and improve your mood. If you're feeling tired or weak during this time, it's best to avoid prolonged periods of washing your hair or standing for long periods. Doctors recommend using lukewarm water instead of very cold or very hot water when washing your hair during your period. If your scalp feels sensitive, use a mild shampoo and dry your hair thoroughly after washing to avoid the cold.
If there is excessive bleeding during periods, severe pain, dizziness, a constant feeling of weakness, or unusual symptoms every month, then instead of linking it to hair washing, one should immediately consult a doctor.






