Hormonal bloating is primarily caused by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can lead to water retention and affect the digestive system.
Here's a breakdown of the causes:
-
Estrogen and Water Retention: High estrogen levels can cause the body to retain more water. This is a key factor in hormonal bloating. When estrogen spikes and progesterone drops (typically before menstruation), fluid retention increases, contributing to a bloated feeling.
-
Progesterone and Digestive Slowdown: While estrogen promotes water retention, fluctuations in progesterone also play a role. Changes in progesterone levels can slow down digestion, leading to constipation and bloating.
-
Hormonal Impact on the Uterus: The increasing volume of the uterus just before menstruation also contributes to a feeling of abdominal bloating.
In essence, the complex interplay between estrogen and progesterone, particularly the imbalance that often occurs during the menstrual cycle, influences both fluid retention and digestive function, resulting in the sensation of hormonal bloating.
