Water Retention before the Monthly Period

Water Retention is that bloated feeling before the monthly period. According to researchers, about 85% of women suffers from this kind of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome. But isn't it a bother that you have to suffer this every single month of your menstrual life? But experts on this field say that there are some forms of changes and medications which will help minimize such problem.

Lifestyle Changes

Taking care of your self is the most inexpensive way of minimizing the water retention problem, do your regular exercise and as much as possible, stay away from salty diet. Yes it works, I did some research on this before because I personally suffer from this PMS syndrome. One more thing that worked for me is undergoing a body wrap in a spa house. :D No kidding, after every treatment, I really feel so slim!

Medications (through Mayoclinic.com)

* Diuretics. Sometimes called water pills, these medications help rid your body of sodium and water by making your kidneys excrete more sodium in urine. They are available in over-the-counter formulations, such as pamabrom (Aquaban), or stronger prescription pills. But long-term use of these fluid reducers can cause electrolyte abnormalities or even kidney damage.

* Over-the-counter PMS treatments. These medicines (Midol, Pamprin) usually contain some combination of mild diuretics, pain relievers, antihistamines and caffeine. So they can treat a range of PMS symptoms. However, if your main symptom is water retention, you may not need all of the active ingredients in these medications.

* Over-the-counter pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen (Aleve), may alleviate physical symptoms that occur with PMS. If you experience abdominal cramps along with bloating, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) also may help.

* Birth control pill (oral contraceptive). If you have severe water retention and cramping, your doctor may recommend a low-dose oral contraceptive. These medicines prevent ovulation, which can reduce the physical symptoms of PMS.

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If you feel that lifestyle changes alone wont help your dilemma, before considering such over-the-counter pills, it is better to consult your doctor/physician first so they can assess your condition and prescribe the most appropriate medication that will suit your body's needs.


Contents on "Medications" are based on: MayoClinic.com