Why You’re Bloated After Your Period—and What Your Body’s Trying to Say

Post-period bloating is a common experience driven by hormonal fluctuations, dietary habits, and stress. After menstruation, rising estrogen levels cause the body to retain water and salt, while lingering progesterone can slow digestion—both contributing to that familiar bloated feeling. Stress, by raising cortisol levels, can further disrupt digestion and increase bloating.

Diet plays a major role, too. High-sodium and sugary foods can cause water retention and feed gas-producing gut bacteria. Reducing processed foods, avoiding fizzy drinks, and incorporating potassium-rich options like bananas and spinach can help. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced fiber intake also supports digestive health and reduces bloat.

Water retention, the key culprit, is your body’s reaction to hormonal shifts and sodium levels. To combat it, drink more water, cut down on salt, and get moving—exercise helps flush excess fluid.

If bloating persists beyond a few days or worsens, it may signal a deeper issue like PCOS or endometriosis. Tracking symptoms and speaking with a healthcare provider can help pinpoint causes.

And for peace of mind during any phase of your cycle, Saalt offers period care products designed to support you comfortably and sustainably. Leakproof panties, manufactured without PFAS, menstrual cups, and menstrual discs, have no leaks and no stress, while just promoting confidence.

Saalt is a sustainable period care brand working to support everyone who menstruates. They dedicate themselves to creating clean, high-performance products that are better for you and the planet. Their ethically made period cups and period underwear are for professional athletes, office workers, adventurers, and those new to their cycle. For a process that is natural and essential, Saalt offers something just as natural and straightforward.

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