You may experience weight gain as well as other symptoms in the time before your period -- commonly known as premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. An estimated eight to 20 percent of women suffer from PMS, stated Dr. Emily Senay on a June 2005 CBS News report. An imbalance of female hormones may play a large part in the PMS symptoms you endure, such as temporary abdominal bloating and weight gain.
Definition
While most women experience mild symptoms before their periods, some women exhibit severe symptoms that can negatively impact their lives. PMS symptoms can begin before your first period or start in your mid-thirties -- and may become progressively worse, according to Dr. John R. Lee. Premenstrual syndrome symptoms most often occur two weeks before your period begins and usually stop at the onset of menstruation. During PMS, you may feel anxious, overly stressed and depressed, as well as experiencing a bloated abdomen and gaining weight.
Hormones
Sex hormones -- steroids produced by your endocrine glands --play a key role in sexual maturity and reproduction. Your ovaries secrete the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone at various levels during your lifetime. For instance, they rise at puberty and decline as you age, according the Medical Discoveries website. Three types of estrogen prompt the growth of your ovaries and get your uterus ready for pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, you start your period.
Effects
A hormonal imbalance may lead to the weight gain associated with PMS, according to Dr. Edward M. Lichten. Estrogen dominance -- or progesterone deficiency -- may cause swelling and water retention along with the extra pounds you put on before your period. Estrogen levels rise after menstruation ends and reach their highest point mid-way into your cycle--about the time you are most likely to experience symptoms of PMS, reports Lichten.
Treatment
Fortunately, several lifestyle adjustments, such as exercising and decreasing salt intake, may help you reduce fluid retention, bloating and weight gain during PMS, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your doctor can prescribe a diuretic, or water pill, to help rid your body of excess water. In addition, some oral contraceptives act as diuretics to help decrease PMS-associated weight gain, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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