Do you ever have trouble going to poop right in front of you period starts?
Well, don’t worry, it’s normal.
Getting constipated before your due date can be quite uncomfortable, but it’s actually a fairly common side effect of changing hormones as your cycle progresses.
But why is it happening?
As an obstetrician, gynecologist and medical advisor at Floexplains Dr. Iryna Ilyich, constipation before a period can be caused by cyclical hormonal changes, and sometimes it can be a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
This is caused by the hormone progesterone, a natural muscle relaxant.
“Levels of this hormone increase dramatically immediately after ovulation and during the second part of the cycle, before falling just before the onset of menstruation,” Dr Iryna tells Metro.co.uk.
The rise in progesterone can slow down your digestion and “essentially leads to constipation by slowing down the movement of food through the intestines,” adds Dr. Iryna.
As a result, more water is absorbed back into your blood, leading to slower movement of food and drier stools, both of which contribute to constipation, Dr. Gareth Nye, a specialist in endocrinology (conditions related to hormones) tells SELF. ). Metro.nl.
How long does it usually take?
It should only take a few days because your hormonal cycles fluctuate, but this can vary depending on your individual cycle, Dr. Gareth explains.
Once your ovary has sent an egg to the uterus, estrogen levels drop, but progesterone levels rise.
‘As a result, your gut relaxes, which means some people notice their constipation eases just before their period starts,’ says Dr Iryna.
“On the other hand, others may find that their constipation actually worsens during their period, because of higher progesterone levels, which slow down the bowels.”
What can be done to relieve constipation before menstruation?
When it comes to unclogging your pipes, there are some things you can do to get the poop moving.
“Adding more fiber to your diet and drinking plenty of fluids will definitely help with this problem,” Dr. Gareth recommends.
Dr. Iryna suggests incorporating whole-wheat bread, high-fiber breakfast cereals, and a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
“At the same time, it can be helpful to avoid fatty and sugary foods,” she adds.
If possible, also try to limit your intake of dehydrating drinks like coffee.
“Exercise and other forms of physical activity can also be helpful in preventing constipation.”
‘Exercise improves blood and oxygen circulation, so that the intestines remain active.
“Regular exercise not only relieves constipation before your period, but can also address other premenstrual symptoms.”
Dr. Gareth particularly recommends exercises like running or swimming, as they’ve been shown to improve digestive motility, but he notes that if you’re really struggling, you can also look for laxatives.
Why do some people get diarrhea as soon as their period starts?
Once bleeding begins, it is very common to experience softer, thinner stools.
‘Some people may experience temporary diarrhea when levels of progesterone drop rapidly before and during your period, and other chemicals similar to hormones called prostaglandins are released,’ explains Dr Iryna.
“This causes your uterus to contract and expel the lining during your period, and these hormonal shifts can also cause diarrhea.”
This is why it is more common to have to go to the toilet when you have your period.
If none of the above tips work to relieve constipation before your period and you’re still having irregular bowel movements or you’re having loose stools more often, Dr. Iryna says you should make sure you see your doctor.
“A healthcare provider can investigate possible digestive disorders,” she says.
When it comes to other PMS symptoms, if you find them affecting your daily life, you should talk to your GP to discuss how to manage them.
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