It’s that time of the month again, and PMS is ruining what should be another regular week. The discomfort in your stomach from bloating and cramps makes it even worse. You won’t fit into your favourite skirt or jeans, and the nuisance of muscle cramps makes doing simple chores near impossible.
It is usual for most women to experience cramps and bloat during their period. While some will embrace the changes as part of their cycle, most women find ways to get relief. Being able to go to class, attend a work meeting or go out with friends without the aches is freeing.
However, besides the usual cramping and bloating, women experience other PMS symptoms. Unusual food cravings, mood swings, acne breakouts, and exhaustion are also common.
Here is how the uterus and menstruation change and affect the woman, especially with cramps and bloating.
Why Do Women Bloat During Menstruation?
The hormones in women’s bodies keep changing throughout the cycle. For example, progesterone levels drastically drop a few days before a period while oestrogen increases. The sudden change, especially when oestrogen increases, causes the body to retain more water.
On the other hand, progesterone causes slow digestion. So, although the levels may be lower, the effects do not immediately disappear, and this combination causes the feeling of fullness.
Most women experience bloating a few days before the start of menstruation. The good news is the symptoms disappear a few days after bleeding begins. The discomfort, however, can be significantly reduced through simple dietary and lifestyle changes.
However, if your bloating is acute, and prevents normal activities, consider talking to your doctor.
Do Cramps Affect the Size of the Uterus?
Although hormonal changes cause bloating, they do not affect the size of the uterus at any time during menstruation. Additionally, period cramps are usually regular contractions of the muscles on the uterus wall.
Prostaglandins are released due to the inflammation caused by loosening old endometrial cells through period bleeding. Women, therefore, experience cramps when the uterus wall contracts and twitches to release the endometrial cells.
The claims that uterus size changes during a woman’s period are invalid. Bloating and cramps may make one feel a little fuller than usual, but the uterus size remains as is. However, there are instances where the size and weight of the uterus may change. For example, a growth in the uterine wall can cause the uterus to enlarge. Additionally, genes play a role in how different our bodies are.
How to Handle Cramps and Bloating During Periods
There are various ways to reduce bloating and relieve pain from cramps during periods. These simple at-home fixes will help you before or during your period.
- Keep working out. Regular exercise improves your digestive system and can help manage PMS symptoms.
- Drink water. Plenty of water is good for you, especially before and during your period. Go slow on sodas and fizzy drinks, as the sugar can add to the bloated feeling.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol. During your period, reduce the amount of caffeine and alcohol you consume to prevent dehydration and stomach upsets.
- Take medication. Consider using over-the-counter anti-inflammation drugs such as Ibuprofen to reduce bloating and relieve pain from cramps. Also, birth control pills can help reduce PMS symptoms. Talk to your doctor to recommend the best method for you.
- Change your diet. Proteins, healthy fats, and potassium-rich foods are lighter on your digestive system, reducing bloating. Avoid any foods that give you gas, and instead, eat vegetables, fruits, nuts, chicken, fish, and natural herbs. Always follow a healthy diet every day, not just before your period.
Conclusion
Having cramps and bloating during your period is very normal. However, remember to speak to your doctor if you are worried about any issues. Keeping a good record of your symptoms will also help the doctor monitor them and advise accordingly.
