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Water retention: Relieve this premenstrual symptom

Water retention before your period can be uncomfortable and annoying. But lifestyle changes, medications and dietary supplements can help relieve this common premenstrual symptom.

By Mayo Clinic staff

Premenstrual water retention causes a bloated, heavy feeling the week or two before your period begins. For most women, water retention is just a monthly bother — but in some cases, it can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Here's help feeling better.

Why water retention happens

Water retention is a classic symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). What causes PMS — and its unwelcome symptoms — is unclear, but hormonal changes seem to play a major role.

Put lifestyle changes to work

Taking good care of yourself can help banish water retention. Follow these tips:

  • Include physical activity in your daily routine. Women who participate in regular physical activity generally report fewer PMS symptoms.
  • Skip the salt. Limiting the amount of salt in your diet can help prevent water retention. Pay attention to hidden sources of sodium, such as soy sauce, canned vegetables, soups and deli meats.
  • Eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
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References
  1. Frequently asked questions: Premenstrual syndrome. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. http://www.4women.gov/FAQ/pms.htm. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  2. Casper RF. Treatment of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  3. Casper RF. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  4. Premenstrual syndrome. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp057.cfm. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  5. PMS and diet: Is there a connection? American Dietetic Association. http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/home_18673_ENU_HTML.htm. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  6. Douglas S. Premenstrual syndrome: Evidence-based treatment in family practice. Canadian Family Physician. 2002;48:1789.
  7. Blood-pressure lowering drugs. American Heart Association. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=159. Accessed June 30, 2009.
  8. Gallenberg MM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 9, 2009.

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Oct. 20, 2009

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