Lap Band Tightness and Menstruation: Understanding the Connection

Many female Lap-Band patients experience tightness in their bands before or during their periods. This tightness is due to water retention, which is caused by hormonal changes in the body.

Onset

• Some women may experience tightness a week before their period begins; others may not notice any tightness until the day their period starts.

Duration

• After one or two days of tightness, many women experience increased hunger and cravings. The duration of the tightness can vary from month to month.

Diuretics

• Taking diuretics, or water pills, may help relieve water retention. Talk to your doctor before taking diuretics or any other medication if you have a Lap-Band.

Diet

• Pay attention to the way your band feels when you are expecting your period and adjust your diet accordingly. Many women are able to consume only liquids and soups during periods of tightness.

Warnings

• Attempting to consume solid foods when you are feeling tight could result in vomiting or productive burping, where small amounts of digested food are regurgitated.