Having increased gas during your period is very common and mainly caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly involving estrogen, progesterone, and prostaglandins. These hormones affect your gastrointestinal system in several ways:

• Progesterone can relax the smooth muscles in your intestines, which may cause constipation and a buildup of gas that eventually leads to flatulence.
• Prostaglandins, which help your uterus contract to shed its lining, can also cause contractions in your bowels, leading to increased gas, bloating, and changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Rising estrogen levels before and during your period can slow digestion and cause trapped air and gas in your intestines.
• Hormonal changes along with cravings and dietary changes during your period can contribute to gas production and bloating as well.

All these factors together explain why you might feel gassier during your period compared to other times of the month. The gas may also smell stronger because hormonal changes affect gut bacteria that produce sulfur-containing gases. Lifestyle approaches like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and managing stress can help reduce these symptoms.