Experiencing changes in your bowel movements during your period? You’re definitely not alone. Many women find themselves asking, “Why Do I Poop So Much During My Period?” or “Why the sudden diarrhea during my menstrual cycle?” These are common questions, and it turns out, there’s a perfectly biological explanation for what’s often referred to as “period poop.”
It’s a frustratingly common experience. In fact, studies reveal that a significant majority of women – around 73% – experience gastrointestinal symptoms during their periods. These symptoms can vary widely, from diarrhea and frequent bowel movements to constipation. While everyone’s body reacts uniquely, let’s dive into the reasons behind these period-related bowel changes and what you can do about them.
The Role of Prostaglandins in Period Poops
The primary culprit behind increased bowel movements during your period is a group of hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. Just before your period begins, your body releases prostaglandins to help your uterus contract and shed its lining – the process that results in menstruation.
However, prostaglandins don’t just target the uterus. These fatty acids can also affect other smooth muscle tissues in your body, including your bowels. When prostaglandins reach your intestines, they can cause these muscles to contract more frequently. This increased contraction leads to faster movement of stool through your digestive system, which can manifest as more frequent bowel movements and, in some cases, diarrhea. Essentially, prostaglandins are stimulating your bowels to empty more efficiently during your period.
Period Poops: Diarrhea, Constipation, or a Mix?
While many associate period poops with diarrhea, the reality is that menstrual cycles can influence bowel movements in various ways. Some women experience diarrhea, characterized by loose, watery stools and increased frequency. Others might find themselves dealing with more frequent but still formed bowel movements. Conversely, some women actually experience constipation either before or at the start of their period.
This variation is due to the complex interplay of hormones throughout the menstrual cycle. While prostaglandins, which peak around menstruation, are largely responsible for increased bowel activity and potential diarrhea, other hormonal shifts can lead to constipation. For example, increased progesterone levels before your period can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation for some individuals. Therefore, “period poop” isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience; it encompasses a spectrum of bowel changes.
IBS Symptoms and Period Poops: An Uncomfortable Overlap
If you already live with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), you might notice your digestive symptoms become more pronounced during your period. Studies have shown that women with IBS are particularly susceptible to heightened gastrointestinal distress during menstruation.
Research indicates that a significant percentage of IBS sufferers report increased abdominal bloating and discomfort during their menstrual cycle, with symptoms often peaking during the menstrual phase itself. This suggests that the hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle can exacerbate the sensitivity and dysregulation of the gut that is characteristic of IBS, leading to more intense period poops and related symptoms.
Contraceptives and Bowel Movements: What’s the Link?
The question of whether hormonal contraceptives impact bowel movements is still under investigation. Currently, the scientific evidence is not conclusive enough to definitively state whether or not birth control pills or other hormonal contraceptives directly affect period poops.
Some studies suggest that bowel habits can vary throughout the menstrual cycle even in women using oral contraceptives. While some research indicates potential discomfort around the first day of bleeding, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and bowel function during menstruation. It’s a complex area, and individual experiences can vary significantly.
Managing Period Poops: Practical Tips for Relief
While period poops are a normal physiological response, they can still be uncomfortable and disruptive. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage diarrhea and constipation associated with your period:
For Diarrhea:
- Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it’s crucial to replenish lost fluids. Drink plenty of water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks.
- Electrolyte Balance: Replenish electrolytes lost through diarrhea by consuming broth, soups (for sodium), and fruit juices or soft fruits/vegetables (for potassium).
- Consider Over-the-Counter Solutions: Oral rehydration solutions available at pharmacies can help restore fluid and electrolyte balance effectively.
For Constipation:
- Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of fluids to help soften stools and promote easier bowel movements.
- Increase Fiber Intake: Focus on fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds to add bulk to your stool.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity can stimulate bowel function and help relieve constipation.
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: Incorporate foods containing probiotics (like yogurt and kefir) and prebiotics (like bananas and oats) to support a healthy gut microbiome.
- Consistent Meal Times: Eating meals at regular times can help regulate bowel habits.
- Limit Constipating Foods: Reduce intake of fatty foods and alcohol, which can worsen constipation.
When to Seek Medical Advice: Recognizing Red Flags
While changes in bowel movements during your period are usually normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If you experience severe, life-impacting pain during your periods, bowel movements, or urination, it could be a sign of endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, and it can cause significant pain and digestive issues.
It’s essential to consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these severe symptoms to rule out underlying conditions and receive appropriate guidance and care.
Track Your Symptoms:
To better understand your period poops and identify any patterns or triggers, consider tracking your bowel movements and related symptoms using tools like the CDHF’s myIBS app. Monitoring your symptoms, diet, and menstrual cycle can provide valuable insights for managing your digestive health.
References:
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-do-you-poop-more-on-your-period/
- Pati, Girish K et al. “Irritable Bowel Syndrome and the Menstrual Cycle.” Cureus vol. 13,1 e12692. 14 Jan. 2021, doi:10.7759/cureus.12692
- Judkins, T.C., Dennis-Wall, J.C., Sims, S.M. et al. Stool frequency and form and gastrointestinal symptoms differ by day of the menstrual cycle in healthy adult women taking oral contraceptives: a prospective observational study. BMC Women’s Health 20, 136 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-020-01000-x
- https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/period/diarrhea-before-during-period
- https://cdhf.ca/en/digestive-conditions/constipation/
- Wald A, Van Thiel DH, Hoechstetter L, Gavaler JS, Egler KM, Verm R, Scott L, Lester R. (1981) ‘Gastrointestinal transit: the effect of the menstrual cycle’. Gastroenterology. Jun;80(6):1497-500. PubMed PMID: 7227774
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis
