Does Being On Your Period Make Tattoos Hurt More

Does Being On Your Period Make Tattoos Hurt More

Many people wonder if getting a tattoo while on their period makes the process more painful. The truth is that it often does. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect pain sensitivity, energy levels, and mood, all of which influence how your body responds to tattooing. While it is perfectly safe to get tattooed while menstruating, you may find that the pain feels sharper or that your tolerance is lower than usual.

Professional tattoo artists regularly work with clients who are on their period, so there is nothing to feel embarrassed about. However, if you know that your period symptoms are particularly intense, you might prefer to schedule your appointment for another time in your cycle to make the experience more comfortable.

How Hormones Affect Pain Sensitivity

The menstrual cycle involves significant hormonal changes, particularly in the levels of oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones play a role in how your body perceives pain. Around the time of your period, oestrogen levels drop, which can make your pain threshold lower. This means that sensations that might normally feel mild can feel more intense during menstruation.

Tattooing is already a physically demanding process, and when your body is dealing with cramps, fatigue, or hormonal fluctuations, it becomes more sensitive overall. The same tattoo that might feel tolerable during another week of your cycle could feel noticeably more painful when you are menstruating.

The Role of Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are chemicals released by the body during menstruation to help the uterus contract and shed its lining. Unfortunately, they also increase inflammation and make pain receptors more active. This can amplify any form of discomfort, including the pain caused by tattooing.

If you are already experiencing cramping or back pain, your nervous system is working harder to manage that discomfort. Adding tattoo pain on top of that can overwhelm your body’s natural coping mechanisms and make the experience more uncomfortable than it would be otherwise.

Why Fatigue and Mood Matter

Being on your period can also make you feel tired, bloated, or emotionally drained, which can affect how well you tolerate tattoo pain. Fatigue lowers your ability to focus and stay calm, while hormonal changes can make you more irritable or anxious. These factors combine to make pain feel stronger than usual.

Tattooing requires patience and stillness, so it is best to go into your appointment feeling as rested and relaxed as possible. If your period tends to leave you feeling run-down, try scheduling your session for a different time when you know your energy levels will be higher.

The Best Time in Your Cycle for a Tattoo

The most comfortable time to get a tattoo is usually in the middle of your cycle, about one to two weeks after your period. During this time, oestrogen levels are higher, which naturally boosts your pain tolerance and helps you feel more balanced. You are also likely to have more energy and better mood stability, making the tattoo experience easier to handle.

If you do need to get tattooed during your period for scheduling reasons, it can still be done safely. Just prepare a little more carefully to help your body cope with the additional strain.

How to Prepare If You Are On Your Period

If you have no choice but to get tattooed while on your period, a little preparation goes a long way. Eat a balanced meal before your session to keep your blood sugar steady, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine or alcohol, as both can dehydrate you and increase sensitivity.

You can take paracetamol before your appointment to help manage both period pain and tattoo discomfort. However, avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can thin the blood slightly and may increase bleeding during the tattoo.

Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing will also make a big difference, especially if your tattoo is on your abdomen, thigh, or lower back. Choose something that allows easy access to the tattoo area without causing pressure on your body.

How Period Symptoms Affect Tattooing

Cramps, bloating, and muscle tenderness can all make it harder to sit still during a tattoo session. The tattooing process requires long periods of minimal movement, and when your body feels uncomfortable, it becomes more difficult to maintain that stillness. This can affect your ability to relax and may even slow the tattooing process slightly.

In addition, your skin can sometimes be more sensitive during your period. Some clients notice increased redness, swelling, or irritation when tattooed during this time. While these effects are temporary, they can make the immediate healing phase a little more uncomfortable.

How Blood Flow Affects Tattooing

Another factor to consider is blood flow. During menstruation, blood vessels dilate and circulation increases, particularly in the lower body. This can cause slightly more bleeding during tattooing for some people. While this does not usually cause a problem, it can make wiping the area more frequent and may require your artist to take a little more care to keep the stencil clean.

Tattoo artists are experienced in managing this, but it is helpful to let them know you are on your period so they can be extra mindful of your comfort. It also allows them to make adjustments to ensure the session runs smoothly.

Managing Pain and Discomfort

Pain during a tattoo is unavoidable, but there are simple ways to make it more manageable if you are on your period. Breathing steadily, staying hydrated, and relaxing your muscles all help reduce tension. Some people find that listening to music or focusing on conversation helps distract from the pain.

Avoid holding your breath or tensing your body, as this can increase discomfort. Remember that tattoo artists are used to working with clients who experience pain differently, and they will always allow you to take breaks if you need them.

If your period pain is particularly strong, consider postponing your appointment. There is no harm in waiting a week or two for your body to feel more balanced, and your overall experience will likely be far more pleasant.

Healing After a Tattoo During Your Period

Getting tattooed while on your period does not affect how your tattoo heals, but your body might take a little longer to recover from the combined stress. Make sure to rest, eat well, and continue drinking plenty of water after your appointment. Your immune system works hard during menstruation, and giving it extra support will help your tattoo heal properly.

If you notice slightly more swelling or tenderness than usual, this is normal and should settle within a few days. Keeping your tattoo clean and following your artist’s aftercare advice will ensure it heals beautifully, regardless of when in your cycle you got it.

When to Avoid Getting Tattooed

If your period symptoms are severe, such as heavy bleeding, intense cramps, or fatigue, it may be best to avoid getting tattooed at that time. Pushing through discomfort can make the experience unnecessarily unpleasant and could lead to restlessness during the session. Your tattoo is a permanent piece of art, and it deserves your full focus and comfort. Waiting until your body feels better will only improve the overall experience.

Conclusion

Tattoos can feel more painful when you are on your period due to hormonal changes that increase sensitivity and lower pain tolerance. While it is perfectly safe to get tattooed during this time, you may find the experience less comfortable. The best way to prepare is to rest well, eat properly, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable clothing.

If possible, try to book your tattoo for a time in your cycle when you feel stronger and more balanced. Tattooing should be an exciting and positive experience, and listening to your body’s signals will help ensure it stays that way.