You step on the scale and… what?! Somehow, you're up a few kilos overnight, even though nothing's changed. Did I eat too much? Should I skip breakfast? Am I retaining everything?

Before you panic or blame yourself, here’s the truth: weight gain during your period is completely normal and temporary. It’s not fat, it’s not failure, and it’s not something you need to “fix.”

Let’s break down why this happens, what’s going on inside your body, and why it’s okay to ditch the scale (especially during that time of the month).

So, Why the Sudden Weight Spike?

Spoiler alert: it’s mostly water. Yep, the “weight” you’re seeing is likely due to fluid retention, bloating, and natural menstrual cycle changes that mess with your hormones.

In the days leading up to your period (aka the luteal phase), your body produces more progesterone and oestrogen. These hormonal shifts can cause your body to hold onto water and salt, leading to that dreaded puffy feeling. Your boobs might feel fuller, your jeans might fit tighter, and the scale might jump, but again, this is not actual weight gain from fat.

It’s your body reacting to hormonal changes, and it’s more common than you think.

What Else Is Contributing?

It’s not just water weight. A few other factors are in play here:

• Digestive slow downs: Hormonal changes can affect your gut, slowing things down and causing constipation or bloating. That alone can make you feel heavier.
• Increased appetite: You might feel hungrier before your period, especially for carbs or sweets. That’s also hormone related. And no, eating a cookie doesn’t cause a 2kg weight gain overnight.
• Less movement: If you’re feeling crampy, tired, or just not in the mood to move, you might be less active around your period. That’s valid and resting isn’t the enemy of your health.
• Inflammation: For some people, the body’s inflammatory response increases slightly before menstruation. This can cause swelling, soreness, and yes, more water retention.

Put it all together, and that “extra weight” makes total sense. Your body is literally going through a lot right now.

How Long Does Period Weight Gain Last?

Here’s the good news: it doesn’t last forever. Most people find that the extra weight starts to drop off a few days after their period starts. Once your hormone levels begin to shift back, your body stops retaining as much water, and you start to feel more like yourself again.

If you’re wondering how long period weight gains last, the answer is usually about 3–5 days, give or take. Of course, everyone’s body is a little different. So don’t stress if it takes a week or more to feel fully balanced again.

Should You Even Be Weighing Yourself?

Honestly? Maybe not, especially if it messes with your mood. Your weight fluctuates for so many reasons (not just your cycle), and obsessing over the number doesn’t do much good. If the scale tends to bring on anxiety or negative self-talk, consider taking a break from it altogether.

Instead, tune into how you feel. Are you tired? Bloated? Extra snacky? Give your body what it needs, whether that’s rest, hydration, movement, or a salty snack. A number can’t measure that.

What Can Help You Feel Better?

You can’t avoid weight gain during your period, but there are ways to support your body through it:

• Drink more water: Weird, but rehydration helps flush out excess fluids.
• Eat potassium-rich foods: Bananas, avocados, and leafy greens can help manage bloating.
• Limit super salty foods: Too much sodium means more water retention.
• Keep moving (if you feel like it): A gentle walk, some stretching, or light exercise can ease bloating and boost your mood.
• Be kind to yourself: Your body is working hard. Give it some credit instead of criticism.

The Bottom Line

Feeling heavier around your period isn’t just “in your head”. It’s a real, physical reaction to hormonal shifts, water retention, digestion changes, and more. But here’s the thing: it’s temporary and normal.

So, the next time you notice a little extra weight on the scale or feel like your clothes are hugging tighter than usual, remember this: weight gain during period doesn’t define your health, your body, or your worth.

Bodies change throughout the month. That’s not failure, it’s just being human.

Love, Libra x

Essity makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional, medical or other health professional advice.