UK: Study finds swimming in cold water relieves menopause, mood swings

Swimming in cold water can significantly alleviate menopausal symptoms, including mood swings and hot flushes, according to a study led by University College London.

The research, which involved 1,114 women aged 16 to 80, found that those regularly swimming in cold water reported various physical and mental health benefits, with some describing the experience as “healing.”

Among the women undergoing menopause in the study, half reported a substantial reduction in anxiety due to cold-water swimming. Additionally, significant percentages noted improvements in mood swings (35%), low mood (31%), and hot flushes (30%).

More than 60% mentioned swimming specifically to address menopausal symptoms.

The findings, published in the journal Post Reproductive Health, build on previous knowledge about the stress-reducing effects of cold water and its positive impact on muscle repair in athletes.

The researchers emphasised that while anecdotal, the study suggests that cold-water swimming could serve as an alternative solution for women grappling with menopausal challenges, potentially encouraging more women to engage in sports.

Participants shared personal testimonials, with one woman expressing the profound effect of cold-water swimming on her menopausal symptoms. Another participant, aged 57, credited cold water with saving her life, highlighting the disappearance of both physical and mental symptoms during swimming.

Notably, the study revealed that the duration of swimming and colder water temperatures correlated with greater benefits. For the 711 participants experiencing menstrual symptoms, 38% reported better control of mood swings.

The study identified five key benefits for regular cold-water swimmers dealing with menopausal or menstrual symptoms: a calming and mood-boosting effect, companionship and community, improved menstrual experiences, reduced impact of hot flushes, and overall health improvement.

The researchers concluded that the positive effects observed could encourage more women to embrace cold-water swimming as a holistic approach to managing menopausal challenges.