But I am still bloated because my tummy is firm to the touch

Okay, so feeling bloated and having a firm tummy can totally happen, especially around your period. It's super common and usually just means your body is holding onto extra water. It's like your body is trying to prep for your period or dealing with all those hormone changes.

What it feels like

Your tummy might feel tight or full, almost like you ate a huge meal even if you didn't. Sometimes it can be a little uncomfortable, but usually, it's not super painful. It can make your clothes feel a bit snug, which is annoying, but it's totally normal and lots of people experience it.

What you can do about it

There are a few things that can help you feel better. Drinking more water, even though it sounds weird, can actually help flush out some of that extra water your body is holding. Eating foods with lots of potassium, like bananas, can also help. And sometimes, light exercise like walking or stretching can make a difference. Avoiding super salty foods or sugary drinks can also help because they can make bloating worse.

If your bloating is really painful or lasts a super long time, like way after your period is over, it's a good idea to talk to a trusted grown-up. They can help you figure out if you should chat with a doctor about it, just to be sure everything's okay.