Question:
What do I do about weight gain during my period?

I gained 4 lbs overnight when I got my period last week!! It hasn't come back off. I just went off of the pill. I am 18 mos post op and was into normal weight range and this has blown me back out! I am so incredibly depressed and don't understand how my period could have caused this weight to be a SUSTAINABLE weight gain - obviously not water. Please - any advice would be appreciated. Each day that goes by has me more depressed and frantic. I have not experienced this type of weight fluctuation that didn't come back off in a few days.    — Karen D. (posted on February 3, 2003)

February 3, 2003
I had this happen to me. I went off the pill for a month and I had been down to 125--went right up to 135 and stayed there! I felt bloated and out of sorts. I went back on the pill and it still took another month to get back down to my normal weight of 130. I think that hormonal fluctuation is to blame. It takes a while for your body to readjust to "normal" hormonal levels. You may be stuck with a few extra pounds until that happens. I know how you feel. I was really down in the dumps about it--even though I could still wear my clothes. I just felt "fat." Over an extra 5-10 pounds. Think about where we've been. Aren't we being silly? :P
   — ctyst

February 3, 2003
This is a normal response to hormones, water retention, and the other "stuff" that naturally occurs during the menstration cycle. It is normal to gain weight. I usually gain around five pounds every single month, and usually takes about two weeks to come off again.
   — twenc

February 3, 2003
I normally put on about 5 pounds that week and it comes off a couple of days after it's over. I've been on the patch since November and I haven't gained or lost a pound. I've just maintained which is fine with me.
   — Patty H.