Menopauseis a transitional time for females that often beginsbetween ages 45 and 55.
It is the time beginning 12 months after a last period and can last seven to 14 years.
During this transition, people may experience a variety of symptoms associated with shifts in hormones.
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One of the more common symptoms of menopause is constipation.
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Whats the Connection Between Menopause and Constipation?
The menopausal transition affects each person differently.
During this time, the production of the female hormonesestrogenandprogesteronedeclines.
Making Dietary Changes
Increasing dietary fiber can help the body better form and eliminate stools.
These are calledlaxativesand they are short-term solutions that have different ways of working to relieve constipation.
Exercise
Daily exercise can help with constipation.
Diet
Diets with foods low in fiber and high in processed foods can cause or worsen constipation.
Most females do not get enough fiber.
This causes stool to be hard, dry, and more difficult to pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
Constipation is a common symptom of perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause.
This is due to the shift in hormones that may slow down the digestive tract.
Constipation doesn’t necessarily get worse as you get older, but it does become more common.
Medical conditions and medications may also contribute to constipation.
This depends on what is considered regular for you.
Bowel habits vary from person to person.
Some may go three times a day, while others go three times per week.
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
US Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health.Healthy Eating and Women.
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