Can Menstrual Cycle Cause Diarrhea?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Prostaglandins cause contractions that help your uterus shed its lining.

Sometimes, they also cause contractions in your intestines, which can cause a range of GI symptoms, including

. They also reduce the intestine's rate of food absorption, which makes food pass through your colon faster.

What is period poop?

“Period poops,” as they are often called, refer to

bowel movements that coincide with the start of your period

. They typically differ from your regular poops and are often looser and more frequent, or diarrhea. According to Dr.

How long does diarrhea last with period?

They might last

up to seven days after the start of menstruation

. When your period is about to arrive, digestive symptoms tend to fall to the extremes. Some people get constipated, and others have diarrhea.

How do I stop period diarrhea?

If your periods cause diarrhea, you can treat it.

IMODIUM products contain an active ingredient called Loperamide, which works to help restore your body's natural rhythm so you can start to feel like yourself again

. If symptoms persist for more than two days or get worse, consult your healthcare professional.

Why do I get an upset stomach on my period?

But nausea is a normal part of your period.

One of the hormones released during your cycle is called prostaglandin

. Though most of it sheds with the uterine lining, some gets into your bloodstream. This can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches.

Can period cause explosive diarrhea?


Most believe it's closely related to an increase in hormones called prostaglandins, which are released before your period

. Prostaglandins cause contractions that help your uterus shed its lining. Sometimes, they also cause contractions in your intestines, which can cause a range of GI symptoms, including diarrhea.

Is diarrhea a PMS symptom?

Diarrhea, as well as other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating and nausea, may also occur during the week prior to your period. In this case,

the diarrhea may be part of a group of symptoms, usually including mild mood changes, called premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

.

Can hormones cause diarrhea?

Hormonal fluctuation or imbalance can impact the speed food moves through the intestines. In some cases,

a change in hormone levels may cause food to pass through faster than usual, which can lead to diarrhea

, nausea or stomach pain.

Can ovulation cause diarrhea?

Another period-related hormone,

progesterone, can cause diarrhea in some people and constipation in others

. Progesterone is responsible for the growth and thickening of the uterine walls, and it peaks right before ovulation. A buildup of the hormone can cause bowel issues.

Why do I often get diarrhea?

A wide range of problems can cause ; some of the most common causes include

irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis), malabsorption syndromes in which food cannot be digested and absorbed, and chronic infections

.

Is diarrhea a symptom of anxiety?

As well as affecting how a person feels mentally, anxiety can also have physical effects.

A common physical manifestation of anxiety is stomach upset, including diarrhea or loose stools

.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.