What is the cause of abdominal distension during menopause

Menopausal abdominal distension may be related to hormone fluctuations, gastrointestinal dysfunction, improper diet, mental stress, pelvic diseases, and other factors. Abdominal bloating is a common symptom in menopausal women, often accompanied by hot flashes, insomnia, and other symptoms, which can be alleviated through lifestyle adjustments.

1. Hormonal fluctuations

The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can affect autonomic nervous regulation, leading to a slowdown in gastrointestinal motility. Intestinal gas retention may cause bloating and may be accompanied by changes in bowel habits. Suggest increasing the intake of plant-based estrogens such as soy products to help stabilize hormone levels.

2. Gastrointestinal dysfunction

As age increases, the secretion of digestive enzymes decreases, and inadequate digestion of food can easily produce gas. Imbalance of gut microbiota can also exacerbate bloating. Regular eating and slow chewing can help improve, and probiotics such as bifidobacteria can be supplemented appropriately.

3. Improper diet

High fat and high sugar foods increase digestive burden, and gas producing foods such as beans and onions may induce bloating. Excessive intake of carbonated beverages or chewing gum can result in swallowing too much air. It is recommended to choose light and easily digestible foods, with small and frequent meals.

4. Mental stress

Anxiety and depression affect digestive function through the brain gut axis, leading to functional gastrointestinal disorders. Elevated levels of stress hormones can inhibit gastric emptying. Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation exercises can help alleviate symptoms, and psychological counseling can be sought if necessary. Pelvic diseases such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts may compress the intestines. If abdominal distension continues to worsen or is accompanied by abnormal bleeding, gynecological diseases should be investigated. Pelvic ultrasound examination can provide a clear diagnosis, and medication or surgical treatment can be selected based on the condition. Menopausal women should maintain moderate exercise such as brisk walking and swimming to promote intestinal peristalsis. Massage the abdomen clockwise daily and drink mint tea to soothe the gastrointestinal tract. Record dietary logs to identify sensitive foods and avoid wearing tight clothing that compresses the abdomen. If there is no improvement in symptoms or warning symptoms such as weight loss after adjusting lifestyle, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to rule out organic diseases. Regular gynecological examinations can help detect potential problems early.