Ever noticed bloating around that time of month (hello, period)? Bloating is one of the many premenstrual syndrome symptoms (PMS) that women can experience around the time of their period. Feeling bloated can weigh us down and make going about our normal routine less exciting, but you are strong enough to push through. The better you learn to understand your body, the more appreciation you can find in the good and not so good it does for you. Stay tuned, as we explain period bloating, how long it lasts, and how to better manage period bloating. Breathe out and breathe in, we’re in this together.
What is period bloating?
Period bloating is amongst a long list of (PMS). While we can feel bloated at any time, it’s more common around the time of your period (usually 1-2 weeks prior). Feeling like you’ve gained weight practically overnight is not fun, but rest assured that you’re probably just bloating. You may also experience stomach cramps, backaches, and other PMS symptoms. Bloating can be especially obvious right before your period starts, identified by a heavy and swollen feeling in the abdomen. The discomfort can leave us tired, frustrated, and, well, bloated. You may be wondering: how long does period bloating last? Let’s find out.
How long does period bloating last?
Period bloating is most common 1-2 weeks prior to the start of your period. A couple days before the start of your period, bloating may become more noticeable. In most cases, period bloating should lessen once you’ve been menstruating for a few days. Some believe that your body retains the most water on cycle day 1, which can increase the severity of bloating. Pay attention to your body and what it tells you, this can help you know what to expect.
Causes of period bloating
Back to our theme of understanding our bodies, let’s look at what causes period bloating. Progesterone and estrogen hormone levels can change before and during a period contributing to bloating. It’s also believed that the changing hormone levels cause the body to retain more water and salt, yet again contributing to bloating. Typically, as one's period approaches, progesterone levels will fall. As the levels fall the uterus should shed its lining thus resulting in menstrual bleeding.
Symptoms of period bloating
Period bloating is classified as a PMS symptom. If you notice PMS symptoms this can indicate that your period is near. If bloating is one of those symptoms, assume it’s period bloating. PMS symptoms can include the following.
- Depressed mood
- Appetite changes (cravings)
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Acne flare-ups
- Constipation or diarrhea
Do you bloat more before or during your period?
Most women experience the most bloating before their period and or during the first few days. If you’re concerned you may be experiencing unusual symptoms, consider tracking them and contacting your doctor.
How to manage period bloating
We must learn to live in our bodies and make the most of every day. With that being said, learning how to manage period bloating or even just learning when to expect it, can help women deal with period bloating. Here are some ways to effectively manage period bloating.
- Exercise routine: Exercise can do so much good for the brain and the body. Plus, it’s key to reducing PMS symptoms including bloating. While you may feel tired from PMS, try to push through and find a way to exercise. (Even if it’s as simple as a walk.) To help reduce period bloating, try a few hours per week of moderate physical activity, an hour or more per week of intense activity or a combination of moderate and intense exercise per week. Work up a sweat to help your body let go of some of the water it’s holding.
- Hydration and diet: Food and water are necessities, and if you don’t already know, they can make a huge impact on the body. To manage period bloating, eat the right foods and drink plenty of water. Simple, right? It really is if you just make it a priority and commit. Avoid foods high in sodium such as processed foods and focus on healthy foods such as lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. As for water intake, try to consume eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day. For personalized dietary recommendations, contact your doctor.
- Lifestyle changes: Our lifestyle consists of how we live on a day-to-day basis. From exercising to staying hydrated and eating the right foods, it’s the choice we make on a daily basis that fuels our bodies. You may not be able to escape period bloating, but find what works to help manage it. What works for you is all that truly matters. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine is usually not a fan favorite but it can be a lifestyle change that helps manage PMS symptoms.
Closing thoughts
At Proof®, we do all things women - which of course includes periods. We encourage women to embrace their bodies and control the things they can, such as being comfortable during naturally uncomfortable times. From time-to-time, you may catch yourself wishing you could never have a period again, but do what you can to recognize the female cycle and how incredible it is. Learning how to manage PMS symptoms can help you lean in and embrace your period. We believe that comfort should always be a priority, so while we can’t eliminate bloating, we can deliver buttery soft leakproof underwear to keep you moving freely.
Shop Proof® period underwear
Available in a variety of styles and absorbency levels, shop Proof® leakproof underwear today and welcome a new MVP to your underwear drawer. We’ve got you covered for all kinds of leaks— from periods to work outs and everything in between, our leakproof underwear are just like your fave undies, but made better. Transform your belief about underwear and what they can do for you. Step one, choose your preferred panty. . .
- Say hello to our Leakproof Thong (light absorbency)
- Say hello to our Leakproof Hipster Underwear (super-heavy absorbency)
- View our full collection here
Step two: order with confidence. Proof® offers comfort and invisible protection that helps protect you from leaks. Our patented Leak-Loc® technology has multiple layers that draw in moisture and help lock in leaks. Our moisture-wicking liner pulls wetness away from the body to help you feel dry. Plus, our underwear are designed to fight odor. When you slip on our buttery soft underwear for the first time (or at the start of every day) you’ll be blown away by their unseen power. Designed for all-day comfort with multi-way breathable stretch fabric, our machine washable period underwear will make periods a bit more comfortable. And we all deserve at least that.
