I have had the band almost 2 years, and during the last three months (for the first time ever) when my period starts my band completely closes up! I mean for a couple of days I can barely get hot liquid down. The first two months I went in for an unfill and had immediate relief, but it was really frustrating because I was then too loose and eating too much. :/ This last episode I could tell was not quite as bad, I called my doc's office and they advised that it unfortunately does happen (why all of a sudden I wonder?) and that relaxing about it helps you get through it. Well, I did just that and it has slowly, slowly, slowly gotten better...I was so excited to get some thin mashed potatoes and a protein drink (room temp) down today. I was feeling really weak, and with three babies to keep up with (8, 4 & 2) I need my energy! Does anyone out there have suggestions, tricks or tips? Is there something I can do the week before I am supposed to start to make it not happen? I, for the most part, have been a bandster who eats lots of salad and protein and the occasional "naughty" treat...so I am hoping my stomach will heal and I'll be able to get back to the healthy eating soon. Thanks so much for any help you can offer! :confused2:

Hi. This happens to me, too. You retain fluid when you are having your period and now I get a few days of retention 2 weeks after. Lucky me. Anyway, I really cut the salt down and it has helped a lot! I thought I was eating lower sodium but cut even more out. I try to add more liquids every day and drink at least one cup of hot green tea (decaf) in the evenings. For some reason, this mix has really helped. Now, I still get a little tight but I can eat softer foods for those few days. Also, do you exercise? That helps me out a lot, too.

Thanks so much, I'll be sure to try all of it! I have not been very good about exercising in the past few months now that I think about it...I wonder if that is the trigger??? I really appreciate your response.

Kelli