Bloating

Many women experience bloating during their menstrual cycle or from an underlying gynecological condition. If you have uncomfortable bloating and you’re looking for a solution, Clinton Ashford, MD, FACOG, and Rebecca Ashford, MD, at The Ashford Center in Athens, Georgia, can help. They offer innovative treatments for bloating to ease discomfort. To find out more about the treatment options for bloating, call the office or schedule a consultation online today.

What is bloating?

Bloating refers to swelling and distension in the abdominal area. It’s a common symptom that often occurs from a buildup of gas in the gastrointestinal tract.

However, women experience bloating during their menstrual cycle from excessive fluid retention in the intestinal walls. Though severity varies, some women find their premenstrual bloating very uncomfortable, making it hard to wear certain clothes. 

What causes bloating in women?

Bloating in women occurs because of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. The premenstrual bloating usually happens one to two weeks before your period because of changes in progesterone and estrogen levels.

These hormonal changes cause the body to retain extra fluid and salt, resulting in bloating. 

Certain gynecological conditions also cause bloating, including:

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition that occurs when cells typically found in the lining of the uterus grow outside the uterus. 

Fibroids

Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. Though they don’t always cause pain, fibroids may affect menstruation and make you feel bloated.

When should I seek help for bloating?

You should seek help for bloating at The Ashford Center if your symptoms occur monthly and affect your physical and emotional well-being. The gynecologists at The Ashford Center specialize in gynecological symptoms and conditions that make it hard for women to go about their normal day.

Dr. Ashford asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical and gynecological histories and does a physical and pelvic exam. He may also request an ultrasound test to confirm or rule out a gynecological condition that may be contributing to your symptoms.

What are some of the treatments for bloating?

Dr. Ashford customizes your treatment plan for bloating based on the severity of your symptoms and your future pregnancy plans. Initially, he may recommend lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting regular exercise. 

Dr. Ashford may also prescribe hormonal birth control to help regulate the hormones during your cycle to decrease bloating. For women with no future plans for pregnancy, Dr. Ashford recommends advanced endometrial ablation to treat bloating.

This procedure gently removes the hormonal lining of your uterus, eliminating the underlying cause of premenstrual fluid retention and bloating. Dr. Ashford has performed more than 5,000 advanced endometrial ablation procedures.

To get help with your premenstrual bloating, call The Ashford Center or schedule an appointment online today.