Diarrhea during your period is a relatively common experience.
Often called “period diarrhea,” it can occur because your body releases moreprostaglandinsduring menstruation.
These chemicals cause uterus contractions during menstruation as well as contractions in your digestive tract.
Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images
The subsequent impact on the intestines can result in frequent, loose stool.
Self-care tips like staying hydrated, reducing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet can help alleviate it.
Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images
Causes
Not everyone getsdiarrhea on their period.
However, diarrhea is one of the most commonly experienced period-related symptoms.
According to one published study, about one-third of women experience at least one gastrointestinal problem during menstruation.
About a quarter of women experience diarrhea during their period.
You may be wondering what makes you poop more on the first day of your period.
Unfortunately, scientists don’t know theexactreason why, but there are several strong ideas.
Release of Prostaglandins
The most commonly cited cause of period diarrhea is related toprostaglandins.
Prostaglandins are hormonelike substances made from fatty acids that affect physiological processes in the body.
Prostaglandinsare released in the lining of the uterus before your period.
The prostaglandins produced in your uterus can also affect your nearby digestive tract.
They can increase smooth muscle contractions in the intestines.
All of these factors can lead to what you experience as diarrhea.
Your prostaglandin level is highest when your period starts, and then it lowers throughout your period.
This is why you may have more bowel movements on the first day or early on during your period.
Other Hormonal Changes
While prostaglandins play a significant role in your gastrointestinal health during menstruation.
There are other hormones that may also play a role, directly or indirectly.
Progesterone is a hormone that supports a healthy period and helps your body to maintain a pregnancy.
Estrogen may also play a role as it also affects gastrointestinal motility and inhibits smooth muscle contraction.
Changing levels may contribute to GI issues, including diarrhea.
Endometriosis
In endometriosis, tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
Manypeople with endometriosis report GI symptomsthat worsen during their period.
This includes both diarrhea and pain with bowel movements.
But for others, an underlying medical condition may be contributing to period diarrhea.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple way to get rid of period diarrhea.
However, there are some ways to cope with this uncomfortable symptom.
One study showed a decrease in specific cytokine markers in people with IBD taking oral contraceptives.
But study authors were quick to point out that more research is needed.
However, taking an oral contraceptive can help to regulate your menstrual cycle.
BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
This mild diet tends to have a calming effect on the gastrointestinal system.
Consider talking to a healthcare provider if you have significant diarrhea lasting longer than three days.
Summary
Many menstruating people experience diarrhea during their periods.
Know that having more frequent bowel movements during your period is normal.
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