If youve experienced this, youre not aloneother thancramps, frequent peeing is probably my most annoying period symptom.
So, I asked a few experts whether or not I was imagining things.
(Spoiler alert: Im not.)
Hormonal changes are a significant cause of peeing more than usual.
Specifically, doctors point to lowered progesterone as a culprit for why you pee more during your period.
This releases a lot of fluid and often makes people have to pee more.
urologist and chairman of the board/co-founder of Moonstone Nutrition
Pressure on your bladder can cause that urge, too.
Is more frequent peeing during your period something to worry about?
Otherwise, it could be a sign of another issue.
Urinary tract infections, and sometimes sexually transmitted infections, can show up.
Whats normal for someone else might not be normal for you.
How many times should I pee a day?
These differences are related to bladder size, bladder wall thickness, and variations in neurologic influences.
These distinct features allow some people to hold their urine longer than others.
Diuretics like alcohol, coffee, and carbonated beverages can increase the urge.
urologist and chairman of the board/co-founder of Moonstone Nutrition
All that said, a normal range is somewhere in the neighborhood of around 8 times per day.
One thing to look out for is the amount you pee.
Whats not normal is urinating frequently with just a few tablespoons of urine, says Dr. Eilber.
Can anything prevent or lessen the need to pee more on your period?
Thankfully, there are some things you’re free to do to lessen your urge.
To minimize fluid retention before your period, Dr. Dunham says you should increase fluid consumption and stay well-hydrated.
Avoiding salty foods also helps reduce fluid retention.
Eating more crunchy veggies and less processed food can help move fluids through our systems.
Other than drinking water, Racz recommends taking Advil or Ibuprofen to help with cramps.
Hormonal birth control
It is also possible to address the hormones directly.
Taking the pill can help in a variety of ways.
If your bladder is already overactive, a period can just add fuel to the always-running-to-the-bathroom-fire.
Pelvic floor strength is what prevents incontinence.
And a strong pelvic floor can also, counterintuitively, help your bladder relax.
This may cause the bladder to relax and be able to delay voiding.
Most of all, though, you may just have to stick it out.
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