What Is Menstruation Gingivitis?

If your gums feel sore, swollen, or bleed easily right before or during your period, it’s not your imagination — your menstrual cycle may be the cause. This condition, called menstruation gingivitis, refers to temporary gum inflammation that occurs due to hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.

While poor oral hygiene is a common cause of gingivitis in general, menstruation gingivitis specifically develops when estrogen and progesterone levels rise just before your period, making your gums more sensitive to plaque and bacteria.1

What Causes Menstruation Gingivitis?

Your menstrual cycle affects more than just your reproductive system — it also influences your mouth.

Right before menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels spike, increasing blood flow to the gums. This heightened circulation can make gum tissue more sensitive, swollen, and reactive to even small amounts of plaque.3

As a result, bacteria that are normally harmless can trigger noticeable inflammation. You may experience:

• Redness and puffiness of the gums

• Bleeding when brushing or flossing

• Tenderness or mild soreness in the gum line

These symptoms usually appear during the luteal phase (the second half of the menstrual cycle, after ovulation). Hormone levels then drop sharply once menstruation begins, leading to relief from symptoms within a few days.4

Signs and Symptoms

Menstruation gingivitis can start up to two weeks before your period and usually fades once your period begins. Common signs include:13

• Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing

• Red, swollen, or tender gums

• Sores or discomfort on the inside of your cheeks

• A feeling of tightness or mild pain in your gums

Although gingivitis often causes little or no pain, some people report soreness that makes brushing or flossing uncomfortable.5 Still, maintaining your oral care routine is essential — neglecting it can worsen inflammation.36

Treatment and Home Care

The good news: menstruation gingivitis is temporary and typically subsides shortly after your period begins.1

In the meantime, consistent oral hygiene can help minimize discomfort:

• Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste

• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth

• Use antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath

• Rinse with warm salt water to reduce swelling and tenderness

If your symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a visit with your dentist. They can check whether your gum irritation is hormonal or due to a more chronic form of gum disease.5

When To See a Healthcare Provider

If your gums remain swollen, painful, or continue bleeding after your period, it might indicate chronic gingivitis or periodontitis, which require professional care.

A dentist will:7

• Examine your gums for inflammation and measure the spaces between your teeth and gum line

• Identify signs of excessive plaque buildup or infection

• Recommend treatments like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) if needed

Early detection makes gum disease fully reversible, so don’t ignore prolonged gum discomfort.

How To Prevent Menstruation Gingivitis

You can’t prevent hormone fluctuations, but you can minimize their impact with strong oral hygiene habits year-round.6

Here’s how to keep your gums healthy:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

• Floss after meals to remove trapped food

• Use antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent bacterial buildup8

• Get professional dental cleanings once or twice a year

• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D to support gum health

Maintaining a consistent dental routine reduces the amount of plaque and bacteria that trigger inflammation during hormonal changes.

Hormonal Changes and Gingivitis

Hormones can influence your gums in other life stages and conditions too:3

Birth Control Pills

Certain contraceptives that contain estrogen and progestin can increase gum sensitivity, much like natural hormonal cycles. Some women experience mild gingivitis while using these pills, especially in the first few months.9

Pregnancy

Pregnancy gingivitis is similar to menstruation gingivitis but lasts longer—typically between the second and eighth month of pregnancy.10
Dentists often recommend more frequent cleanings during pregnancy to manage inflammation and protect gum health.

Puberty

Rising levels of estrogen and testosterone during adolescence can make gums more reactive, leading to puberty gingivitis. This condition tends to appear earlier in girls and slightly later in boys as hormone levels change.

A Quick Review

Menstruation gingivitis is a temporary gum inflammation that occurs before or during your period due to hormone changes that increase gum sensitivity.

Typical symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, and they usually resolve once menstruation begins. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups help prevent symptoms and keep your mouth healthy.

If bleeding or inflammation continues after your period, consult your dentist—it may be a sign of another gum condition that needs treatment.