Why Periods Sync With Others Around You

Ever noticed how menstrual cycles seem to sync up when you’re spending time with your close friends? Is it real, or just a coincidence? The Honey Pot is here to break it down and clear up the mystery.

In this article, we’re diving into the world of menstrual synchrony, where your period might just be trying to sync up with your BFFs, thanks to something called the McClintock effect. 

What Is Menstrual Synchrony?

Menstrual synchrony, also known as the McClintock effect, refers to the idea that menstrual cycles may align among people who spend a lot of time together. This concept, first introduced by Martha McClintock in the 1970s through her study on menstrual cycles at Wellesley College, suggests that close proximity could influence cycle timing.

How Do Body Chemistries Interact?

How might our bodies communicate without us even realizing it? Enter human pheromones — the body’s own chemical messengers. You can’t see them, you can’t smell them, but these these signals could be quietly coordinating menstrual cycles without us being aware.

When we talk about menstruation and pheromones, we’re diving into a world where invisible chemical signals could potentially influence our menstrual cycles. The theory suggests that these signals are picked up through our sense of smell, the olfactory system, playing a low-key matchmaker in aligning periods. 

Does Living Together Affect Menstrual Cycles?

Now, let’s get real about roommates and rhythms. If you’ve ever shared a space with other menstruators, like in a college dorm or that one summer at camp, you might have noticed a menstrual pattern emerging. Does living with your friends mean your cycles will start aligning, too?

The concept of period syncing among roommates isn’t just about sharing fridges and Netflix accounts — it’s about whether close proximity can bring those cycle lengths closer on the calendar. 

Anecdotal tales from groups of women and other menstruators — especially stressed-out college students cramming for finals or binge-watching the same TV series — often support the idea of period syncing. But is living together the cause or just a cozy coincidence?

Why Do Periods Sync?

Taking a step back, let’s explore the bigger picture — how do external factors influence this menstrual phenomenon?

The Stress Factor

Let’s talk about stress — a common disruptor that can throw your menstrual cycle out of balance.

High stress can send your body’s hormones into a tailspin, which might mean your period could arrive early, late, or not at all. So, if you and your group are all feeling the same stress from shared deadlines or challenges, it might seem like your cycles are syncing, but in reality, stress is likely the underlying factor.

Diet and Lifestyle

Next up, let’s chew on how your lifestyle choices — like what you eat and how often you hit the gym — can influence your cycle. Eating a lot of processed foods or skimping on the veggies? That can throw your hormones out of whack. 

Regular workouts, on the other hand, tend to keep things more regular. The goal is finding that sweet spot where your body feels cared for without feeling controlled.

Contraception and Health Conditions

Now, onto contraception. Birth control is the boss of your menstrual cycle, especially if it’s hormonal. It decides when (or if) you ovulate and can totally rewrite your cycle script. 

And then there are conditions like endometriosis that march to their own drum, affecting your cycle in ways that no amount of syncing can align with. 

The Lunar Connection

Now, onto something exciting: let’s glance at the moon. Some folks love the idea that lunar cycles could sync with menstrual cycles. 

While the notion that lunar phases influence our bodies is captivating, the scientific support is more subtle than definitive. For now, it’s safe to say the moon likely isn’t the driving force behind your monthly cycle. 

What Are Some Smart Tips To Support Your Flow?

Whether your cycle aligns with others or runs on its own schedule, these tips can help keep your period as manageable as possible.

Embrace the Power of Synchronization

Chilling with your besties can sometimes mean your periods want to hang at the same time. Harness that power by planning low-key hangouts around your cycles. Maybe it's a cozy movie night or a mellow day in the park. Keep it relaxed and in sync with your body’s rhythms.

Self-Love and Care Rituals

Let’s talk about the big "O" and everything after. Our Sex Ritual kit is a commitment to your vaginal health. Wrap up your day with our Organic Agave Moisturizing Lubricant for some smooth moves, follow up with Boric Acid & Herbs Suppositories to keep things balanced, and use our Sensitive Feminine Wipes for a quick refresh. 

Don’t forget a spritz of our Lavender Rose Refreshing Panty Spray for that fresh feeling. Keep it all together in our Vulva Bag because proactive vaginal care is sexy.

Dive Into a Good Book

When your body’s doing its thing, why not give your brain a little escape? Reading can be a fantastic way to unwind and spend a lot of time indoors during your period. Pick something that hooks you from the first page and makes you forget about the cramps.

Get Back to Nature

Ever feel like a walk in nature soothes your soul and your symptoms? It’s not just you. Spending time outside can help regulate your cycle and ease PMS symptoms. Whether it’s a gentle hike or just lounging in a garden, let Mother Nature be your healing companion during menstruation and beyond.

Track and Understand Your Cycle

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to vaginal health. Use a cycle-tracking app or calendar to keep tabs on your ovulation and period dates. It’s a great way to predict your moods, and energy levels. 

Stock Up on the Right Supplies

Your period deserves the best, so why settle for less? Our feminine care products are derived from plants and include everything from pads to tampons — all dermatologist-tested and kind to your skin (yep, even your vulva). 

The Bottom Line

So, do periods actually sync when you’re spending time with your close circle? While it’s an interesting concept, the scientific evidence is limited — consider it more of an 'it’s complicated' situation.

​​At The Honey Pot, we’re all about supporting your body’s natural rhythm with gentle, dermatologist-tested care. Whether your cycle runs solo or seems to align with others, we’re here to help you feel fresh and confident.

Explore our products today and discover why so many swear by our plant-derived solutions. 

Sources:

Menstrual synchrony in female couples | PubMed Central

Pheromones | Serious Science

Moon Cycles Exert an Influence on Menstruation and Sleep Patterns | American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

3 ways getting outside into nature helps improve your health | UC Davis