Why Does Body Weight Increase During Menstruation?
Jul 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
A few days before menstruation, weight gain is common due to elevated progesterone levels in the body. This is simply caused by hormonal fluctuations—particularly estrogen—and is entirely normal. During this phase, relatively low estrogen levels can contribute to temporary weight gain around the time of menstruation, which is also a normal physiological phenomenon. Since weight may increase during your period, it’s advisable to avoid high-calorie foods, overeating, and binge eating, and instead opt for a light, balanced diet.
In modern life, many women experience weight gain during their menstrual period. Why does weight increase during menstruation?
Why Does Weight Increase During Menstruation?
Weight gain a few days before menstruation is commonly attributed to elevated levels of progesterone in the body. This is simply due to hormonal fluctuations—particularly estrogen—so it is entirely normal. During this phase, estrogen levels are relatively low, which may contribute to temporary weight gain during menstruation. This is a normal physiological phenomenon. Since weight tends to increase around the time of menstruation, it is advisable to avoid high-calorie foods and binge eating, and instead opt for light, balanced meals.
When women experience menstrual irregularities accompanied by weight gain, psychological interventions—such as counseling or lifestyle adjustments—may be beneficial. In some cases, pharmacological treatments—including anxiolytics or antidepressants—may be prescribed. Prior to menstruation, many women develop premenstrual syndrome (PMS), characterized by symptoms such as headache, breast tenderness, peripheral edema, weight gain, irritability, anxiety, emotional lability, and impaired memory. These symptoms can negatively affect work performance and academic functioning; moreover, persistent anxiety and mood disturbances may disrupt the menstrual cycle.
If weight gain persists over an extended period without resolution, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. It is important to maintain emotional well-being, avoid staying up late, ensure adequate sleep, drink warm water regularly, refrain from washing clothes with cold water, engage in moderate physical activity, and minimize intake of cold, raw, or refrigerated foods. I hope this article has been helpful to you!
