Bloating often happens to many women during the first few days of their period. What is the reason for this and how to avoid it?

Bloating is one of the premenstrual syndrome symptoms that feels like you have gained weight or have a swollen stomach. It may happen because of fluctuations in the hormones of your reproductive system, progesterone and estrogen. A week before menstruation is about to start, progesterone levels drop, which later leads to menstrual bleeding, as your uterus sheds its lining.

Besides that, research says that fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone levels make your body retain more water and salt. Your cells become swollen with water and you feel bloated.  

According to a study from 2011, women tend to retain most water on the first day of menstruation.

Bloating is unpleasant and often causes discomfort, luckily it is possible to avoid it by making

certain lifestyle changes:

• Avoid eating too much salt

• Add more fruits and veggies to your diet

• Eat more whole grains, and lean protein

• drink a lot of water for it to have a diuretic effect

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine

• Avoid processed foods

• Do regular exercise

If your menstruation-related bloating interferes with your normal activity, consult your healthcare provider to find a solution to the problem.  

Sources:

Seven tips for relieving period bloating, medicalnewstoday.com

5 Tips for Managing Period Bloating, healthline.com