Why Does the Body Swell During Menstruation?

What is Swelling?

Swelling occurs when excess water accumulates in the body, often due to reduced blood flow. Our bodies rely on blood circulation to deliver water, oxygen, and nutrients to every part of the body. Movement helps stimulate circulation, but when muscles remain inactive, blood flow slows, leading to water accumulation in certain areas and causing swelling.

Reasons for Swelling During Menstruation

The menstrual phase is when the uterine lining, which had been prepared for a potential pregnancy, sheds, often accompanied by bleeding. This is also known as the low-temperature phase, as basal body temperature is lower during menstruation.

Both progesterone and estrogen levels are low during menstruation. This hormone dip can lead to autonomic nervous system imbalances, which in turn disrupts normal water circulation in the body, leading to swelling.

Additionally, menstrual pain can reduce physical activity, which in turn slows blood circulation and increases the likelihood of swelling.

Since menstruation aligns with the lower temperature phase in the basal body temperature cycle, poor circulation in the lower body, especially for those prone to coldness, can lead to noticeable swelling in the legs.

Methods to Relieve Swelling

To reduce swelling, you can try internal and external approaches. Here are some methods you can start today.

• Internal Approaches

To reduce swelling, limit salty foods and include foods high in potassium, which helps flush out excess salt. Foods rich in potassium include spinach, cucumbers, bananas, and avocados.

Even though swelling might make you want to avoid water intake, staying hydrated is essential for reducing swelling. Instead of drinking a large amount at once, try drinking a glass of water regularly throughout the day. This helps promote circulation, which can aid in reducing swelling.

• External Approaches

Swelling often results from restricted blood and lymph flow, so keeping these flows smooth is crucial. A simple method is soaking in a warm bath, which warms the body and improves circulation. The water pressure in the bath also helps flush out stagnant fluids. If possible, massage your body gently while in the bath to further stimulate blood flow.

After bathing, stretch while your body is still warm. For areas prone to swelling, like the legs, try doing squats, rotating your ankles, and stretching tight muscles and joints. If you’re too tired to stretch, simply lie on your back and shake your hands and feet gently. This movement helps direct excess fluids back toward the heart, reducing swelling.

Relieving swelling can improve overall health, so incorporate these small, daily self-care habits to help your body feel its best.