Body positive blogger shares honest photo of PMS bloating to prove it’s normal
“THIS IS NORMAL"
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Malin Olofsson, a 27-year-old fitness blogger, survivor of anorexia and body positive campaigner is on a mission to remind women that PMS is nothing to be ashamed of.
During their time of the month, women can be struck with all manner of side effects from breakouts and mood swings to cramps and cravings.
But, despite a huge number of women experiencing the same troubles, many feel the need to remain silent in fear of judgement.
Now Olofsson, who frequently speaks about body positivity issues, wants to change that.
Sharing a photo on Instagram, Oloffson poses sideways wearing a sports bra and leggings, and her stomach is noticeably swollen; a side effect that she experiences due to pre-menstrual bloating.
The caption reads: “THIS IS NORMAL. This is nothing to be ashamed of.
“Yes - it is very uncomfortable, and yes - it is really difficult to not feel like you must hide it and try to suck your stomach in.
“I've stopped. I've decided that breathing is more important than what other people may or might think.”
While few people would be so willing to upload a photo of their bloated bellies online, Olofsson insists that we should embrace menstruation and its side effects; however unpleasant they may be.
“Do not blame your body for how you're feeling. It is never your body's fault. It is never anything wrong with how your body looks. Realise that you don't have to be ashamed and hide. You are perfect and your body is just doing its job.”
In response to her post, hundreds of women commented thanking her for sharing the relatable image and voicing their relief at seeing someone else with similar PMS symptoms.
“Wow thank you so much for this I seriously thought I was the only one,“ one person wrote.
Another added, “This nearly made me cry, every single month, every time I walk past a mirror I stop just for a second and look.
“Just stand up straight it's fine. Breathe in. Nice to know it's not just me.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments