Is diarrhea during menstruation a common occurrence. What causes digestive issues during the menstrual cycle. How can women manage gastrointestinal symptoms associated with their period. When should one seek medical advice for menstrual-related digestive problems.

The Link Between Menstruation and Digestive Issues

Many women experience a range of symptoms before and during their menstrual period, including gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. These digestive disturbances are often a normal part of the menstrual cycle, but understanding their causes and management can significantly improve comfort during this time.

The Role of Prostaglandins in Menstrual Diarrhea

The primary culprit behind menstrual diarrhea is the increased production of prostaglandins in the body. These hormone-like chemicals play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including:

• Muscle contractions
• Blood vessel dilation and constriction
• Blood clotting

As the menstrual period approaches, cells in the uterine lining ramp up prostaglandin production. This surge triggers uterine muscle contractions, leading to the shedding of the uterine lining – the physical manifestation of a period. Higher levels of prostaglandins correlate with more intense uterine contractions, potentially causing menstrual cramps and pain.

When prostaglandin levels are elevated, some may enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the bowels. The smooth muscle lining of the intestines, similar to that of the uterus, can contract in response to these prostaglandins. This can result in increased bowel movements and diarrhea.

Common Gastrointestinal Symptoms During Menstruation

Diarrhea is not the only digestive issue women may face during their menstrual cycle. A 2014 study involving 156 premenopausal women revealed that 73% experienced at least one gastrointestinal symptom before or during their period. The most frequently reported symptoms included:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Interestingly, the study also found a correlation between emotional symptoms like depression or anxiety and the likelihood of experiencing multiple gastrointestinal symptoms.

Impact on Existing Digestive Conditions

For women with pre-existing digestive disorders, the menstrual cycle can have varying effects. A 2013 study compared premenstrual gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with and without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The findings showed that those with IBD experienced more frequent premenstrual gastrointestinal symptoms, although their IBD symptoms did not significantly change throughout the menstrual cycle.

In contrast, women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may notice an exacerbation of symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain during their period, as reported in an article in Gastroenterology Report.

Endometriosis and Its Impact on Digestive Health

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, can significantly affect digestive health, especially during menstruation. This condition can occur in various areas, including:

• Ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Area surrounding the uterus
• Vagina
• Cervix
• Bladder
• Bowel
• Rectum

According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, gastrointestinal symptoms are very common in endometriosis cases. These symptoms often worsen during menstruation and may include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Recognizing Endometriosis Symptoms

Besides gastrointestinal issues, other symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Painful menstrual cramps
• Persistent lower back and pelvic pain
• Stomach or intestinal pain
• Pain during bowel movements or urination during menstruation
• Blood in stools or urine
• Deep pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Bleeding or spotting between periods
• Infertility

If these symptoms are present, especially if diarrhea and other digestive issues worsen during menstruation, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Managing Menstrual Diarrhea and Digestive Discomfort

While menstrual diarrhea can be uncomfortable, there are several steps women can take to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall comfort during their period.

Hydration and Dietary Adjustments

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial when experiencing diarrhea. Here are some tips:

• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day
• Consume an extra cup of water after each bout of diarrhea
• Consider a liquid diet to rest the bowels (weak tea, apple juice, or clear broth)
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion
• Include foods high in pectin (e.g., applesauce, bananas, yogurt) to reduce diarrhea

Replacing Electrolytes

Diarrhea can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly depleting potassium levels. To address this:

• Drink sports drinks, fruit juices, or coconut water
• Consume potassium-rich foods like bananas and potatoes with skin
• Include salty foods such as crackers, pretzels, and soups to replace lost sodium

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes for Menstrual Symptoms

In addition to managing diarrhea, there are several natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate various menstrual symptoms:

Exercise and Stress Management

Regular physical activity can help reduce menstrual discomfort. Light exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can be particularly beneficial. Additionally, stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices can help alleviate both physical and emotional symptoms associated with menstruation.

Heat Therapy

Applying heat to the lower abdomen can help relax muscles and reduce cramping. This can be done using a heating pad, hot water bottle, or taking a warm bath.

Dietary Supplements

Certain supplements may help alleviate menstrual symptoms:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: May reduce inflammation and menstrual pain
• Magnesium: Can help reduce bloating and mood swings
• Vitamin B6: May alleviate mood-related symptoms
• Calcium: Some studies suggest it can reduce menstrual cramps

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While some digestive discomfort during menstruation is normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Women should consult a healthcare provider if they experience:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Prolonged diarrhea lasting more than a few days
• Blood in the stool
• Signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, dark urine, dizziness)
• Fever accompanying digestive symptoms
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition and require professional evaluation.

The Importance of Tracking Menstrual Symptoms

Keeping a record of menstrual symptoms, including digestive issues, can be invaluable for both personal management and medical consultations. By tracking the timing, duration, and severity of symptoms, women can:

• Identify patterns in their menstrual cycle
• Anticipate and prepare for upcoming symptoms
• Provide detailed information to healthcare providers
• Recognize any changes or abnormalities that may require attention

Numerous mobile apps and digital tools are available to facilitate menstrual tracking, making it easier than ever to maintain a comprehensive record of menstrual health.

The Role of Hormonal Birth Control

For some women, hormonal birth control methods can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce associated symptoms, including digestive issues. Options include:

• Combined oral contraceptives
• Hormonal IUDs
• Birth control patches
• Vaginal rings

These methods can help stabilize hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle, potentially reducing the severity of symptoms like diarrhea and cramping. However, it’s crucial to discuss the benefits and potential side effects of hormonal birth control with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option.

Understanding the Mind-Gut Connection During Menstruation

The relationship between emotional well-being and digestive health is particularly relevant during menstruation. The menstrual cycle can influence mood and stress levels, which in turn can affect digestive function. This bidirectional communication between the brain and the gut, known as the gut-brain axis, plays a significant role in menstrual symptoms.

Stress and Digestive Symptoms

Stress and anxiety, which may be heightened during the menstrual cycle, can exacerbate digestive symptoms. Stress can:

• Alter gut motility
• Increase intestinal permeability
• Affect the balance of gut bacteria
• Heighten sensitivity to abdominal pain

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, adequate sleep, and self-care practices can help alleviate both emotional and digestive symptoms during menstruation.

The Impact of Diet on Menstrual Symptoms

Dietary choices can significantly influence menstrual symptoms, including digestive issues. Some dietary recommendations to consider include:

• Reducing caffeine intake, which can exacerbate anxiety and digestive discomfort
• Limiting alcohol consumption, as it can worsen dehydration and mood swings
• Increasing intake of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and mood stabilization
• Consuming adequate protein to support hormone balance
• Including anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries

Keeping a food diary alongside menstrual symptom tracking can help identify any dietary triggers that may be exacerbating digestive issues during menstruation.

The Role of Probiotics in Menstrual Health

Emerging research suggests that probiotics may play a beneficial role in managing menstrual symptoms, including digestive issues. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can provide health benefits. They may help by:

• Supporting a healthy gut microbiome
• Reducing inflammation
• Improving digestion and nutrient absorption
• Potentially alleviating menstrual pain and bloating

While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of probiotics on menstrual health, incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements may be worth considering. Foods high in probiotics include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

As with any dietary change or supplement regimen, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing probiotics, especially for those with underlying health conditions.

The Importance of Regular Gynecological Check-ups

Regular gynecological check-ups are crucial for maintaining overall reproductive health and addressing any concerns related to menstrual symptoms, including digestive issues. These appointments provide an opportunity to:

• Discuss changes in menstrual patterns or symptoms
• Screen for potential reproductive health issues
• Receive personalized advice on managing menstrual discomfort
• Explore treatment options for severe or persistent symptoms

Healthcare providers can offer valuable insights into whether symptoms like menstrual diarrhea are within the normal range or if further investigation is warranted. They can also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, or medical interventions that may help improve menstrual health and overall well-being.

The Future of Menstrual Health Research

As awareness of menstrual health issues grows, so does the body of research dedicated to understanding and addressing these concerns. Ongoing studies are exploring various aspects of menstrual health, including:

• The role of genetics in menstrual symptoms
• Novel treatment approaches for conditions like endometriosis
• The impact of environmental factors on menstrual health
• Personalized medicine approaches to managing menstrual disorders

This expanding field of research holds promise for improved diagnostic tools, treatment options, and management strategies for menstrual-related digestive issues and other symptoms in the future.

Diarrhea during period: Causes, treatment, and more

Women may experience a range of symptoms before and during their period. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal issues are common symptoms of menstruation.

Here, we look at why having a period can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. We also provide tips on how to ease painful symptoms, and when to see a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Share on PinterestAn increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body during a period may cause diarrhea.

Some people may experience diarrhea during or before their period. This is likely due to an increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body.

Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that assist certain functions in the body, including:

• muscle contractions
• blood vessel dilation and constriction
• blood clotting

Before a period starts, cells in the lining of the uterus increase production of prostaglandins. This increase in prostaglandins causes the uterus muscles to contract, thereby releasing the lining of the uterus. This is what a female experiences as her period.

The more prostaglandins the body makes during menstruation, the more the uterus will contract. As such, excess production of prostaglandins can cause menstrual cramps and pain.

When prostaglandin levels are high, some prostaglandins may enter the bloodstream. They can then travel to various parts of the body, including the bowels.

The bowels have a smooth lining of muscle, similar to the uterus. High levels of prostaglandins can cause the bowels to contract and release their contents, resulting in diarrhea.

Excess prostaglandins can also cause other period-related symptoms, including:

Apart from causing pain and discomfort, excessive amounts of prostaglandins do not cause any health risks.

Changes in prostaglandin levels can also cause other gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during a period.

A 2014 study of healthy premenopausal women investigated the GI and emotional symptoms some people experience before and during their period.

Of the 156 participants, 73% experienced at least one GI symptom before or during a period. Abdominal pain and diarrhea were the most common. Participants also experienced:

Women who experienced emotional symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, were more likely to report multiple GI symptoms.

A 2013 study compared premenstrual GI symptoms in people with and without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers found that people with IBD experienced more frequent premenstrual GI symptoms. However, their IBD symptoms did not change significantly over the course of the menstrual cycle.

In contrast, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience a worsening of bloating, abdominal pain, and other IBS symptoms during their period, according to an article in Gastroenterology Report.

Endometriosis is where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis can occur in the following areas:

• ovaries
• fallopian tubes
• area around the uterus
• vagina
• cervix
• bladder
• bowel
• rectum

According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, GI symptoms are a very common feature of endometriosis. The symptoms typically worsen during menstruation, and may include:

Other symptoms of endometriosis include:

• painful menstrual cramping
• persistent pain in the lower back and pelvis
• stomach or intestinal pain
• pain during bowel movements or urination during a period
• blood in stools or urine
• deep-feeling pain during or after sex
• bleeding or spotting in between periods
• infertility

If people suspect endometriosis is causing diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms, they should see their doctor for a diagnosis.

People can take steps to treat diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms at home. We outline some tips below.

Treating diarrhea

Some general tips for easing diarrhea include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids: This is important for preventing dehydration. People should drink throughout the day, and should drink an extra cup of water after each bout of diarrhea.
• Consuming a liquid diet: This helps to rest the bowels. People can try drinking weak tea, apple juice, or clear broth.
• Eating smaller meals more frequently: This can make food easier for the body to digest.
• Eating foods high in pectin: Pectin is a water-soluble fiber that can help to reduce diarrhea. Foods that are high in pectin include applesauce, bananas, and yogurt.
• Replacing electrolytes: Diarrhea can deplete levels of potassium and other electrolytes in the body. People can replace electrolytes by drinking sports drinks, fruit juices, or coconut water. Good food sources of potassium include bananas, and potatoes with the skin.
• Eating salty foods: Salty foods, such as crackers, pretzels, and soups, help to replace lost sodium. This, in turn, helps the body retain more water.

People should also avoid foods and drinks that can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea. Examples include:

• caffeine
• alcohol
• carbonated drinks
• foods that are very hot or very cold
• high-fat, greasy foods
• milk products
• tobacco
• marijuana

Treating other menstrual symptoms

Below are several dietary and lifestyle tips that could help to alleviate GI symptoms and other menstrual symptoms.

• Exercising regularly: Keep up regular exercise throughout the month, especially aerobic activity that raises the heart rate.
• Avoiding certain ingredients: Avoiding foods and drinks that contain caffeine, salt, or sugar for 2 weeks before a period may help to reduce PMS symptoms.
• Getting a good nights sleep: Ensure regular, good-quality sleep, and aim for 8 hours each night. This may help to alleviate mood-related menstrual symptoms.
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling may help to ease stress-related GI symptoms.
• Avoiding smoking: People should avoid smoking. According to the Office On Women’s Health, smoking may increase the severity and frequency of pre-menstrual symptoms. Learn more about quitting smoking here.

People should see their doctor if they experience any of the following:

• diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
• blood in the stools, which may indicate an infection or other underlying health condition
• severe physical or psychological symptoms before or during periods, which may indicate an underlying health condition

People should also see a doctor or other healthcare professional if they think they may have endometriosis. The doctor will work to diagnose the condition and provide treatments to ease the symptoms and help prevent recurrent symptoms.

People may experience diarrhea and other GI issues before and during their period. This is usually due to an increase of prostaglandins, which can cause cramps, diarrhea, and other GI issues.

People who experience diarrhea during their period can follow standard guidelines for treating diarrhea. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, and replacing lost electrolytes.

Severe symptoms during or before a period can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. People should take note of their symptoms, and schedule an appointment with their doctor or gynecologist.

These health professionals will work to diagnose the cause of the symptoms, and provide appropriate treatments.

Diarrhea during period: Causes, treatment, and more

Women may experience a range of symptoms before and during their period. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal issues are common symptoms of menstruation.

Here, we look at why having a period can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. We also provide tips on how to ease painful symptoms, and when to see a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Share on PinterestAn increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body during a period may cause diarrhea.

Some people may experience diarrhea during or before their period. This is likely due to an increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body.

Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that assist certain functions in the body, including:

• muscle contractions
• blood vessel dilation and constriction
• blood clotting

Before a period starts, cells in the lining of the uterus increase production of prostaglandins. This increase in prostaglandins causes the uterus muscles to contract, thereby releasing the lining of the uterus. This is what a female experiences as her period.

The more prostaglandins the body makes during menstruation, the more the uterus will contract. As such, excess production of prostaglandins can cause menstrual cramps and pain.

When prostaglandin levels are high, some prostaglandins may enter the bloodstream. They can then travel to various parts of the body, including the bowels.

The bowels have a smooth lining of muscle, similar to the uterus. High levels of prostaglandins can cause the bowels to contract and release their contents, resulting in diarrhea.

Excess prostaglandins can also cause other period-related symptoms, including:

Apart from causing pain and discomfort, excessive amounts of prostaglandins do not cause any health risks.

Changes in prostaglandin levels can also cause other gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during a period.

A 2014 study of healthy premenopausal women investigated the GI and emotional symptoms some people experience before and during their period.

Of the 156 participants, 73% experienced at least one GI symptom before or during a period. Abdominal pain and diarrhea were the most common. Participants also experienced:

Women who experienced emotional symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, were more likely to report multiple GI symptoms.

A 2013 study compared premenstrual GI symptoms in people with and without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers found that people with IBD experienced more frequent premenstrual GI symptoms. However, their IBD symptoms did not change significantly over the course of the menstrual cycle.

In contrast, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience a worsening of bloating, abdominal pain, and other IBS symptoms during their period, according to an article in Gastroenterology Report.

Endometriosis is where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis can occur in the following areas:

• ovaries
• fallopian tubes
• area around the uterus
• vagina
• cervix
• bladder
• bowel
• rectum

According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, GI symptoms are a very common feature of endometriosis. The symptoms typically worsen during menstruation, and may include:

Other symptoms of endometriosis include:

• painful menstrual cramping
• persistent pain in the lower back and pelvis
• stomach or intestinal pain
• pain during bowel movements or urination during a period
• blood in stools or urine
• deep-feeling pain during or after sex
• bleeding or spotting in between periods
• infertility

If people suspect endometriosis is causing diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms, they should see their doctor for a diagnosis.

People can take steps to treat diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms at home. We outline some tips below.

Treating diarrhea

Some general tips for easing diarrhea include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids: This is important for preventing dehydration. People should drink throughout the day, and should drink an extra cup of water after each bout of diarrhea.
• Consuming a liquid diet: This helps to rest the bowels. People can try drinking weak tea, apple juice, or clear broth.
• Eating smaller meals more frequently: This can make food easier for the body to digest.
• Eating foods high in pectin: Pectin is a water-soluble fiber that can help to reduce diarrhea. Foods that are high in pectin include applesauce, bananas, and yogurt.
• Replacing electrolytes: Diarrhea can deplete levels of potassium and other electrolytes in the body. People can replace electrolytes by drinking sports drinks, fruit juices, or coconut water. Good food sources of potassium include bananas, and potatoes with the skin.
• Eating salty foods: Salty foods, such as crackers, pretzels, and soups, help to replace lost sodium. This, in turn, helps the body retain more water.

People should also avoid foods and drinks that can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea. Examples include:

• caffeine
• alcohol
• carbonated drinks
• foods that are very hot or very cold
• high-fat, greasy foods
• milk products
• tobacco
• marijuana

Treating other menstrual symptoms

Below are several dietary and lifestyle tips that could help to alleviate GI symptoms and other menstrual symptoms.

• Exercising regularly: Keep up regular exercise throughout the month, especially aerobic activity that raises the heart rate.
• Avoiding certain ingredients: Avoiding foods and drinks that contain caffeine, salt, or sugar for 2 weeks before a period may help to reduce PMS symptoms.
• Getting a good nights sleep: Ensure regular, good-quality sleep, and aim for 8 hours each night. This may help to alleviate mood-related menstrual symptoms.
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling may help to ease stress-related GI symptoms.
• Avoiding smoking: People should avoid smoking. According to the Office On Women’s Health, smoking may increase the severity and frequency of pre-menstrual symptoms. Learn more about quitting smoking here.

People should see their doctor if they experience any of the following:

• diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
• blood in the stools, which may indicate an infection or other underlying health condition
• severe physical or psychological symptoms before or during periods, which may indicate an underlying health condition

People should also see a doctor or other healthcare professional if they think they may have endometriosis. The doctor will work to diagnose the condition and provide treatments to ease the symptoms and help prevent recurrent symptoms.

People may experience diarrhea and other GI issues before and during their period. This is usually due to an increase of prostaglandins, which can cause cramps, diarrhea, and other GI issues.

People who experience diarrhea during their period can follow standard guidelines for treating diarrhea. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, and replacing lost electrolytes.

Severe symptoms during or before a period can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. People should take note of their symptoms, and schedule an appointment with their doctor or gynecologist.

These health professionals will work to diagnose the cause of the symptoms, and provide appropriate treatments.

Diarrhea during period: Causes, treatment, and more

Women may experience a range of symptoms before and during their period. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other gastrointestinal issues are common symptoms of menstruation.

Here, we look at why having a period can cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues. We also provide tips on how to ease painful symptoms, and when to see a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Share on PinterestAn increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body during a period may cause diarrhea.

Some people may experience diarrhea during or before their period. This is likely due to an increase in the production of prostaglandins in the body.

Prostaglandins are hormone-like chemicals that assist certain functions in the body, including:

• muscle contractions
• blood vessel dilation and constriction
• blood clotting

Before a period starts, cells in the lining of the uterus increase production of prostaglandins. This increase in prostaglandins causes the uterus muscles to contract, thereby releasing the lining of the uterus. This is what a female experiences as her period.

The more prostaglandins the body makes during menstruation, the more the uterus will contract. As such, excess production of prostaglandins can cause menstrual cramps and pain.

When prostaglandin levels are high, some prostaglandins may enter the bloodstream. They can then travel to various parts of the body, including the bowels.

The bowels have a smooth lining of muscle, similar to the uterus. High levels of prostaglandins can cause the bowels to contract and release their contents, resulting in diarrhea.

Excess prostaglandins can also cause other period-related symptoms, including:

Apart from causing pain and discomfort, excessive amounts of prostaglandins do not cause any health risks.

Changes in prostaglandin levels can also cause other gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during a period.

A 2014 study of healthy premenopausal women investigated the GI and emotional symptoms some people experience before and during their period.

Of the 156 participants, 73% experienced at least one GI symptom before or during a period. Abdominal pain and diarrhea were the most common. Participants also experienced:

Women who experienced emotional symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, were more likely to report multiple GI symptoms.

A 2013 study compared premenstrual GI symptoms in people with and without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The researchers found that people with IBD experienced more frequent premenstrual GI symptoms. However, their IBD symptoms did not change significantly over the course of the menstrual cycle.

In contrast, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may experience a worsening of bloating, abdominal pain, and other IBS symptoms during their period, according to an article in Gastroenterology Report.

Endometriosis is where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis can occur in the following areas:

• ovaries
• fallopian tubes
• area around the uterus
• vagina
• cervix
• bladder
• bowel
• rectum

According to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, GI symptoms are a very common feature of endometriosis. The symptoms typically worsen during menstruation, and may include:

Other symptoms of endometriosis include:

• painful menstrual cramping
• persistent pain in the lower back and pelvis
• stomach or intestinal pain
• pain during bowel movements or urination during a period
• blood in stools or urine
• deep-feeling pain during or after sex
• bleeding or spotting in between periods
• infertility

If people suspect endometriosis is causing diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms, they should see their doctor for a diagnosis.

People can take steps to treat diarrhea and other menstrual symptoms at home. We outline some tips below.

Treating diarrhea

Some general tips for easing diarrhea include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids: This is important for preventing dehydration. People should drink throughout the day, and should drink an extra cup of water after each bout of diarrhea.
• Consuming a liquid diet: This helps to rest the bowels. People can try drinking weak tea, apple juice, or clear broth.
• Eating smaller meals more frequently: This can make food easier for the body to digest.
• Eating foods high in pectin: Pectin is a water-soluble fiber that can help to reduce diarrhea. Foods that are high in pectin include applesauce, bananas, and yogurt.
• Replacing electrolytes: Diarrhea can deplete levels of potassium and other electrolytes in the body. People can replace electrolytes by drinking sports drinks, fruit juices, or coconut water. Good food sources of potassium include bananas, and potatoes with the skin.
• Eating salty foods: Salty foods, such as crackers, pretzels, and soups, help to replace lost sodium. This, in turn, helps the body retain more water.

People should also avoid foods and drinks that can irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea. Examples include:

• caffeine
• alcohol
• carbonated drinks
• foods that are very hot or very cold
• high-fat, greasy foods
• milk products
• tobacco
• marijuana

Treating other menstrual symptoms

Below are several dietary and lifestyle tips that could help to alleviate GI symptoms and other menstrual symptoms.

• Exercising regularly: Keep up regular exercise throughout the month, especially aerobic activity that raises the heart rate.
• Avoiding certain ingredients: Avoiding foods and drinks that contain caffeine, salt, or sugar for 2 weeks before a period may help to reduce PMS symptoms.
• Getting a good nights sleep: Ensure regular, good-quality sleep, and aim for 8 hours each night. This may help to alleviate mood-related menstrual symptoms.
• Reducing stress and anxiety: Activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling may help to ease stress-related GI symptoms.
• Avoiding smoking: People should avoid smoking. According to the Office On Women’s Health, smoking may increase the severity and frequency of pre-menstrual symptoms. Learn more about quitting smoking here.

People should see their doctor if they experience any of the following:

• diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
• blood in the stools, which may indicate an infection or other underlying health condition
• severe physical or psychological symptoms before or during periods, which may indicate an underlying health condition

People should also see a doctor or other healthcare professional if they think they may have endometriosis. The doctor will work to diagnose the condition and provide treatments to ease the symptoms and help prevent recurrent symptoms.

People may experience diarrhea and other GI issues before and during their period. This is usually due to an increase of prostaglandins, which can cause cramps, diarrhea, and other GI issues.

People who experience diarrhea during their period can follow standard guidelines for treating diarrhea. This includes drinking plenty of fluids, and replacing lost electrolytes.

Severe symptoms during or before a period can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition. People should take note of their symptoms, and schedule an appointment with their doctor or gynecologist.

These health professionals will work to diagnose the cause of the symptoms, and provide appropriate treatments.

Why You Get Diarrhea And Gas On Your Period​, According To Doctors

SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARYGetty Images

You’re probably pretty comfortable commiserating with your friends about how much cramps, bloating, and aches and pains suck on your period. But there’s one problem we talk about far less, and that should change: getting diarrhea on your period. Yup, period poops are totally a thing.

In fact, crappy symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation can all be pretty common during that time of the month, says Christine Greves, MD, an ob-gyn at the Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies. Nearly three-quarters of menstruating women say they have GI issues before their period, and another two-thirds get these types of symptoms during their period, per a 2014 study published in BMC Women’s Health. The most common GI complaints, though, are abdominal pain and diarrhea.

So, why must the period fairy bless you with period diarrhea on top of everything else? Read on for the answer, plus how to make period poops and gas a lot more bearable.

Tell me: Why do some people get diarrhea before or during their period?

While more studies are needed to determine *exactly* why, research suggests that hormone-like substances called prostaglandins and the sex hormone progesterone could be to blame, says Dr. Greves.

Here’s what happens: A few days before your period, the lining of your uterus begins to break down and releases prostaglandins, which cue the smooth muscles in your uterus to contract. If you have an excess of prostaglandins, though, your uterus could really start squeezing (the result: painful cramps). If that “contract, now!” message spreads even further, your intestines might start to get movin’, too. When that happens, what’s inside (you know, fecal matter) doesn’t have much of a chance to harden, which might be why you get period diarrhea.

Towards the end of your cycle (a.k.a. the luteal phase, when the lining of your uterus thickens up again), your progesterone levels go up. More progesterone stops all of those contractions and tells your bowels to slow down—which is where period-induced constipation can come in (yay!).

MIGHTY BLISS™ Large Electric Heating Pad

Mighty Bliss
amazon. com

$26.97

Certain conditions can exacerbate the situation, too. Some women who have a retroverted uterus (which isn’t dangerous and requires no intervention), for example, have more bowel issues because the uterus pushes down on the large intestine.

Keep in mind, though: This is a general guide to how your period might mess with your digestive system, but everyone’s different, says Dr. Greves. The key is to pay attention to your own pattern and learn how to cope accordingly.

Are there any ways to control poop problems related to my period?

If you’re dealing with mild GI issues, consider a trip to your local CVS for some over-the-counter solutions and a heating pad for your lower belly.

Depending on your symptoms, you could try anti-diarrheal meds like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) for closer-to-normal poops, or an anti-gas med like simethicone (Gas-X). As long as they don’t mess with your current health status, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) can ease your belly aches and cramps.

If you can manage a light version of your typical workout or even a brisk walk, exercise may help give you a mood boost, reduce your discomfort, or it can even help get your system going if you’re constipated, says Dr. Greves. Switching up your diet before and during your period could also help keep your symptoms in check. When you know your period’s on the way, avoid foods that typically trigger bloating and gas (like beans, broccoli, and dairy), and if you tend to get backed up, eat more fiber-rich foods (like fruits, veggies, and whole grains).

One thing you shouldn’t do: Try to self-treat period diarrhea that’s become totally life-disrupting or lasts way longer than your cycle. If that’s the case, call your doc (more on that ahead!).

Does period diarrhea ever warrant a doctor’s visit?

Yes. When you’re in intense discomfort (like if you can’t show up for work, sit still, or think about much of anything besides your out-of-whack digestive system), it’s time to call a doctor.

If you’ve been having GI symptoms like cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation that get worse during your period, you could have a gastrointestinal condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), so you’ll want to ask about visiting a specialist. If your period triggers bloody diarrhea or abdominal pain so bad that you can’t eat, you may have endometriosis, a condition where the cells that line your uterus pop up elsewhere, and you should definitely see an ob-gyn for a checkup.

Otherwise? Give it a few more days and hang in there. Thankfully, you only have to deal with this crap once a month.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

How to Get Rid Of Diarrhea During Your Period

See your health care provider if your diarrhea starts to affect your daily life or if your symptoms don’t go away. Make sure to contact your health care provider immediately if you have one of the following symptoms: your stools are bloody or black, you become dehydrated, you have a fever, or you have severe abdominal or rectal pain. Your health care provider may do the following tests to rule out other medical problems:

• Physical exam
• Gynecological exam
• Complete blood count
• Blood tests 
• Colonoscopy

The severity of your symptoms may be linked to your period. Although diarrhea can occur before your period, many people find that their symptoms get worse when they have their period. For some, their bodies are more reactive to food in the days during menstruation, particularly gassy foods.

Is diarrhea a period symptom?

Some people find that symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and constipation get worse during the days immediately after ovulation. Others report that they have an increase in the severity of these symptoms during their period. 

Is it normal to have diarrhea on your period?

Diarrhea during your period is a common complaint. During your period, the sex hormones progesterone and estrogen as well as prostaglandins can change the behavior of the smooth muscle in your intestines. As long as it doesn’t cause such severe gastrointestinal pain that it keeps you from leaving your home, it’s typically nothing to worry about.

If you notice that your diarrhea is bloody, you should see your health care provider as soon as possible. There can be different causes of bloody stools, such as trauma, infectious diseases, endometriosis, and a tumor.

Causes of diarrhea during period

Medical researchers don’t yet fully understand the exact reasons why diarrhea occurs during your period. The most likely cause is prostaglandins, which are chemicals released during your period that affect the contractions of smooth muscles in the uterus and the intestines. They send a “squeeze” message to your bowels and can sometimes go into overdrive. 

How to treat diarrhea on period

Some of the things you can do to manage diarrhea during your period include:

• Eating foods rich in soluble fiber like bananas, peeled apples, and oats
• Staying well hydrated by drinking a lot of fluids
• Taking medication that relieves menstrual symptoms
• Avoiding foods that are highly insoluble, like whole grains, broccoli, and other high-fiber vegetables

Why Do I Get Diarrhea During My Period?

Many women find that they experience diarrhea during their period. Though unpleasant and uncomfortable, digestive changes before and during your menstrual cycle are completely normal. Today, we’ll outline more information about what causes this unpleasant but common period problem, and what you can do to help alleviate it.

What Causes Diarrhea During Period Cycles?

Medical experts aren’t sure what exactly causes women to experience diarrhea during their periods, but most suspect it has to do with prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that can be found in nearly every organ of the body. They act as signals to control different bodily processes, depending on which part of the body in which they are made. In the case of menstrual cycles, prostaglandins are responsible for triggering the contractions of the uterus as it sheds its lining. They are also, however, involved in regulating the contraction and relaxation of the muscles in the digestive tract. This means that while prostaglandins are released during your menstrual cycle to trigger uterine contractions, they can also trigger contractions in your digestive system. The result is often diarrhea. Prostaglandins can also reduce the intestine’s rate of food absorption, (causing food to pass through your colon faster) or increase electrolyte secretions—both of which can also lead to diarrhea.

How to Help Eliminate Diarrhea During Your Period

Thankfully, it’s possible to treat and alleviate period-related diarrhea, just as you would any other diarrhea. Below are some tips for helping diarrhea during period cycles:

• Avoid Certain Foods: Caffeine, dairy, spicy foods, artificial sweeteners, or very spicy foods can exacerbate diarrhea. Steer clear of these foods as the time for your period approaches.
• Fiber and Probiotics: Try upping your fiber intake around the time of your period by eating more healthy grains, chia seeds, or other sources of fiber. It can also be helpful to eat yogurt or take a quality probiotic that will introduce more good bacteria into your gut and help counteract any diarrhea.
• Birth Control: Taking birth control pills can help regulate your cycle and reduce or eliminate diarrhea during period cycles. If you are interested in birth control for regulating your period or lessening other period-related symptoms, talk to your physician about what options are right for you.
• Stress Reduction: Stress can worsen menstrual symptoms, including diarrhea. This means that it’s especially important to try and minimize stress in the time leading up to your period. Exercise can be a valuable tool, as it has been proven to not only relieve stress, but also reduce menstrual-related symptoms.

When to See a Doctor

While minor diarrhea during the period is normal, you should contact your doctor if you are experiencing painful bowel movements during your menstrual cycles. Severe digestion issues can be a symptom of digestive issues, or possibly an indication of endometriosis (called rectovaginal endometriosis). See your doctor if you are experiencing irritable bowels, difficulty passing urine, diarrhea, painful bowel movements, bleeding, and constipation.

North Florida Ob-Gyn of Jacksonville Beach

Diarrhea during your period is completely normal and very common. Most women can find relief by implementing a few of the tips we’ve outlined above or trying OTC medications (such as Imodium) to help relieve any discomfort. If you are concerned about diarrhea or are experiencing other menstrual-related symptoms, it is important to consult with your physician to help rule out any underlying issues. At North Florida Ob-Gyn of Jacksonville Beach, we are committed to providing exceptional healthcare through a full range of obstetric and gynecological services in Jacksonville. If you would like to consult with our board-certified ob-gyn specialists, contact us today to make an appointment.

Diarrhea During Your Period? Here’s the Reason for Menstrual GI Problems

Getting your period can throw your entire day out of whack. Cramps, fatigue, headaches, and spotting are just a few of the annoying symptoms that many people deal with before and during their periods. But one of the lesser-talked-about bodily shifts that many women experience are stool changes like diarrhea and constipation.

Diarrhea during your period isn’t something to worry about, according to certified nurse practitioner Lois McGuire from Mayo Clinic. She told Woman’s Day that many of the women she has treated experience constipation before or during their periods, so the diarrhea can be a relief. For others, however, it can be incredibly inconvenient. And, unfortunately, medical experts aren’t sure exactly what causes it, but they have a few theories.

Stool changes during your period could be the result of progesterone levels and uterus contractions.

According to one theory, changes in stool during your period might have something to do with levels of progesterone, one of the sex hormones involved in menstruation and pregnancy. “In the luteal phase of the period, or second half of your menstrual cycle, which is just before you menstruate, the progesterone levels go up,” McGuire said. “And progesterone, we think, slows down the motility of the GI tract and might have some impact on why people have constipation first, and then frequent stooling or diarrhea as soon as that progesterone drops.” Levels of progesterone dropping is what also causes you to have a period, she said.

Hormones are the most common cause for stool-related issues during your period.

LaylaBirdGetty Images

Second, when your progesterone levels drop, your uterus will contract to help expel its lining (which produces the blood of a period). Prostaglandins, which are “hormonelike substances involved in pain and inflammation,” are what cause those muscles to contract, according to Mayo Clinic. “Prostaglandins can have sort of a laxative effect,” McGuire said, leading experts to believe that they may also contribute to diarrhea during your period.

There are a few different ways to control your stools just before and during your period.

McGuire suggests eating less roughage, which is the part of plant foods that you can’t digest, generally the outside or skin. The skins of fruits, beans, potatoes, whole grains, and whole-grain cereal products are all roughage and contain insoluble fiber, according to WebMD. Whole foods such as brown rice, broccoli, spinach, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, celery, and zucchini, also contain insoluble fiber and could contribute to diarrhea. Cutting these foods out of your diet entirely might not be a good idea, though, since they are thought to help with weight management, lower some risk factors for heart disease, and are a source of good bacteria for your gut, according to Healthline.

Stock up on fiber-filled foods — like oats, mangos, and apples — to help with diarrhea and constipation during your period.

Ariane Jechow / EyeEmGetty Images

Food with soluble fiber, on the other hand, might help diarrhea by “absorbing water and adding bulk to stools,” dietician Hilary Shaw told WebMD. Foods with soluble fiber include oats, legumes, sweet potatoes, apples, mangos, plums, berries, peaches, kiwi, and figs, according to WebMD. McGuire also suggests using a stool supplement like Citrucel, which also contains fiber that absorbs fluid to help make stools a little bulker.

Additionally, people who struggle with diarrhea during their periods could also consider using a birth control pill with estrogen and progesterone continuously, McGuire said. Using a birth control pill continuously, versus cyclically, would mean skipping the white placebo pills and immediately starting a new pack. Mayo Clinic notes that this approach works best if you’re on a monophasic pill, which has “the same hormone dose in the three weeks of active pills.”

Birth control pills helps prevent progesterone levels from increasing as much, which can help with stool-related issues during your period.

NenovGetty Images

But even just being on the birth control pill might help with diarrhea or changes in stool, McGuire said, because the pill helps prevent progesterone levels from increasing as much. It also stops you from ovulating, and ovulation is what causes progesterone to increase. So McGuire said that even if you took birth control the traditional way, with the placebo pills, “that might be helpful, or you could take it continuously just to avoid periods and avoid the other symptoms that go along with a period too. ” She said that people often worry that taking a birth control pill continuously will hurt them in some way, but a number of studies have shown that there are no negative health consequences.

Other hormonal birth control methods, like some forms of IUDs, might also help relieve diarrhea or constipation because they usually help to prevent cramps, but McGuire noted that they don’t stop you from ovulating.

In some cases, you may want to contact your doctor.

McGuire said that diarrhea or constipation during your period usually isn’t something to worry about, but if it’s accompanied by significant pain — worse than cramps — you might want to see a doctor. “If they’re having cyclic pain and the diarrhea, then they may want to be evaluated for endometriosis,” she said. If your pain can’t be controlled with ibuprofen, for example, that might be a sign of endometriosis, according to the Winnie Palmer Hospital. People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may also experience an increase in symptoms during their periods, McGuire said, but that usually isn’t cause for concern.

Generally, stool changes during your period are totally normal, and a few lifestyle changes might be all you need to prevent those unpleasant bathroom trips.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

90,000 Diarrhea

Diarrhea is the second leading cause of death in children under five years of age, with 525,000 deaths annually. Diarrhea can last for several days and can drain the body of water and salts needed to survive. In the past, dehydration and fluid loss were the main causes of death associated with diarrhea. Currently, an increasing proportion of all deaths associated with diarrhea are attributed to other causes, such as septic bacterial infections.Children who are malnourished or immunocompromised are at greatest risk of life-threatening diarrhea.

Diarrhea is defined as loose or loose stools three or more times a day (or more often than usual for a particular person). Frequent bowel movements are not diarrhea. Loose, “pasty” stools of breastfed babies are also not diarrhea. Diarrhea is usually a symptom of an intestinal tract infection that can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites.The infection spreads through contaminated food or drinking water, or from person to person as a result of inadequate hygiene.

Diarrhea prevention interventions, including the provision of safe drinking water, the use of improved sanitation, and hand washing with soap and water, can help reduce the risk of illness. Diarrhea is treated with oral rehydration salts (ORS), a mixture of pure water, salt and sugar. In addition, an additional course of treatment with 20 mg zinc tablets for 10-14 days can shorten the duration of the diarrhea and improve the results.

There are three clinical types of diarrhea:

• acute watery diarrhea – lasts several hours or days and includes cholera;
• acute bloody diarrhea – also called dysentery; and
• persistent diarrhea – lasts 14 or more days.

Incidence of diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the leading causes of child mortality and morbidity in the world. It develops mainly as a result of the consumption of contaminated food and water.Globally, about 780 million people lack access to improved water and 2.5 billion people lack access to basic sanitation. In developing countries, diarrhea caused by infection is widespread.

In low-income countries, children under the age of three have diarrhea, on average, three times a year. Each time, children are deprived of the nutrition they need to grow. As a result, diarrhea is a major cause of malnutrition, and children who are malnourished are more likely to develop diarrhea.

Dehydration

The most significant threat posed by diarrhea is dehydration or dehydration. During diarrhea, water and electrolytes (sodium, chlorine, potassium, and bicarbonate) are eliminated from the body in loose stools, vomiting, sweat, urine, and respiration. Dehydration occurs if these losses are not reimbursed.

There are three degrees of dehydration.

• Severe dehydration (at least two of the following):
• lethargy / unconsciousness;

90,011 sunken eyes;

• the patient cannot drink or drinks badly;
• after pinching, the skin returns to its original state very slowly (≥2 seconds).
• Moderate dehydration:
• restless behavior, irritability;

90,011 sunken eyes;

• the patient drinks with greed, is thirsty.
• No dehydration (not enough evidence to qualify as moderate or severe dehydration).

Reasons

Infection: Diarrhea is a symptom of infections caused by a wide variety of bacteria, viruses and parasites, most of which are spread through fecal contaminated water.Infections are most common where there is a shortage of clean water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene. Rotavirus and Escherichia coli are the two most common causes of diarrhea, both moderate and severe, in low-income countries. Other pathogens such as cryptosporidium and shigella may also be relevant. It is also necessary to take into account the etiological patterns characteristic of a particular area.

Malnutrition: Children dying of diarrhea often suffer from concomitant malnutrition that makes them more vulnerable.Each case of diarrhea, in turn, exacerbates their malnutrition. Diarrhea is one of the leading causes of malnutrition among children under five years of age.

Source: Of particular concern is water contaminated with human faeces, such as from wastewater, sedimentation tanks and latrines. Animal faeces also contain microorganisms that can cause diarrhea.

Other Causes: Diarrhea can also spread from person to person, exacerbated by inadequate personal hygiene.Food is another significant cause of diarrhea when prepared or stored under unhygienic conditions. Unsafe storage and handling of water in the household is also an important factor. Fish and seafood from contaminated water can also cause this disease.

Prevention and Treatment

Key measures to prevent diarrhea include the following:

• access to safe drinking water;
• improved sanitation facilities;
• washing hands with soap;
• exclusive breastfeeding of a child during the first six months of life;
• Appropriate personal and food hygiene;
• health education about the ways of spreading infections;
• vaccination against rotavirus infection.

Key measures for treating diarrhea include the following:

• Rehydration: with oral rehydration salt (ORS) solution. ORS is a mixture of pure water, salt and sugar that can be safely prepared at home. Treatment with this mixture costs a few cents. ORS is absorbed in the small intestine and replaces water and electrolytes excreted in faeces.
• Zinc Supplements: Zinc supplements reduce the duration of diarrhea by 25% and lead to a decrease in stool volume by 30%.
• Rehydration through intravenous drip in case of acute dehydration or shock.
• Nutrient-rich foods: the cycle of malnutrition and diarrhea can be broken by feeding children nutrient-rich foods (including breast milk) during diarrhea and then feeding recovered children with nutritious foods (including exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life).
• Consult a healthcare professional, in particular regarding the management of persistent diarrhea, blood in stools, or signs of dehydration.

WHO Activities

WHO works with Member States and other partners in the following areas:

• Promote national policies and investments that support the management of diarrhea cases and complications, and increased access to safe drinking water and sanitation in developing countries;
• Conducting research to develop and test new strategies for the delivery of health services in this area;
• Capacity building for preventive activities, including sanitation, improved water sources, and water treatment and safe storage in households;
• development of new health interventions such as immunization against rotavirus infection;
• Assist in the training of health workers, especially at the community level.

The first results of the Apple Women’s Health Study have become known, which will help to destigmatize the topic of menstruation

At this point, researchers at Harvard Chan School have analyzed the data of the first 10,000 users who applied and completed a demographic questionnaire. The analysis revealed a wide range of symptoms that accompany different stages of the menstrual cycle, including some little-known or little-discussed phenomena.Most often, participants noted pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, a feeling of fatigue – they are present in more than 60 percent of women who indicated symptoms. More than half of the participants experience acne and headaches. Less common symptoms include diarrhea and sleep disturbances – experienced by 37 percent of the study participants who recorded their symptoms on the app.

Initial analysis suggests that the symptom mix is ​​independent of demographic characteristics such as age, race, or location.For example, blacks, Hispanics, and white women in the United States indicated among the most common symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating and feeling tired.

“Our research will be another step towards gender equality – a future in which everyone who has a menstrual cycle can receive the health care services and products they need to feel comfortable and confident,” said Dr. Michelle Williams, Dean of Harvard Chan. School.“By building a credible knowledge base, the Apple Women’s Health Study allows us to explore the factors that make some menstruate hard and feel marginalized, while also helping to spread the word about what women around the world go through every month.”

“This study is helping us move towards understanding and destigmatizing the symptoms that accompany menstruation,” said Dr. Sumbul Desai, Apple’s vice president of health projects.”Harvard Chan researchers are the best in this important area and we are very proud to be able to help them scale up their research with the Research app.”

The team of scientists will continue to analyze the preliminary data. This will result in a detailed analysis broken down by method. It will be presented to the scientific community and published in print media.

“The preliminary data we presented today show that women across the country experience a similar range of diverse symptoms associated with menstruation, and that this natural monthly occurrence is worth talking more about,” said Dr. Shruti Mahalingaya, one of the project’s lead researchers. Assistant in the Department of Ecology, Reproduction and Women’s Health at Harvard Chan School.”We look forward to continuing to develop a baseline dataset over an extended period of time from which other studies can be conducted in the future.”

The Apple Women’s Health Study is the first study of its kind to understand the mechanisms underlying menstrual cycles and how they correlate with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility, and menopause. IPhone and Apple Watch owners across the US are downloading the Research app to participate in this study, which is being conducted in collaboration with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). Users who are 18 years of age or older (19 in Alabama and Nebraska, 21 in Puerto Rico) and who have had their period at least once are eligible to participate.

90,000 Menstrual pain in a teenage girl. How can I help my child?

Illustration by Roman Zakharov specially for Informburo.kz

The transitional age is a difficult time both for the teenagers themselves and for their parents.The psychological and physical changes that a child experiences are uncomfortable. The body grows, the hormonal background changes, the teenager is under stress. In girls, the situation becomes more complicated with the onset of menstruation. During the first cycles, pain often occurs, which leads to decreased ability to work, sleep disturbances, tearfulness and irritability. You do not need to endure ailments, you need to understand their causes and choose the right method to deal with them.

Why do teenage girls often have painful periods?

Every month, the female body prepares for the onset of pregnancy: a functional layer of the endometrium matures in the uterus, to which the ovum can attach.If pregnancy does not occur, it is rejected and menstruation begins. Old cells are removed from the body so that the uterus can prepare for pregnancy again. During menstruation, prostaglandins, mediators that increase the sensitivity of pain receptors, are produced in the uterus. To remove blood and endometrium faster, the uterus contracts greatly, and cramps occur in the lower abdomen. Sometimes, back pain is added to these sensations. Prostaglandins also affect the contraction of smooth muscles in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which is why many girls are worried about nausea and diarrhea.

What if it’s still some kind of violation. How to figure it out?

As a rule, painful periods in adolescents do not indicate the presence of diseases. Such pains are called primary dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea occurs in 60-93% of girls from 10 to 20 years old. It is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, lower back, legs. Usually, the ailments begin before or during menstruation and subside within two days. But if menstruation becomes irregular, pain lasts more than two days, its intensity does not decrease, and bleeding is heavy and lasts longer than 7 days, you need to see a doctor.

Let’s say it’s not dangerous. Now you have to endure pain every month?

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain. These are drugs that have analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects, reduce pain levels, fever and inflammation. They reduce the production of prostaglandins – they fight not with symptoms, but with the “culprits” of trouble. Ibuprofen is one of the most common non-steroidal pain relievers *.For example, SANTO produces ibuprofen capsules. Capsules are more convenient than tablets, do not have a medicinal odor and taste, and their shell dissolves quickly, and the medicine is more easily and quickly absorbed by the body. For menstrual pain, girls over 12 years old (weighing more than 40 kg) can take 1 capsule up to 3-4 times a day, but not more than five capsules or 1000 mg per day. The interval between doses should be 6-8 hours (do not exceed the daily dosage).

How else can you help your body to endure menstrual pain more easily?

There are several non-drug methods that can make you feel better during your period:

– Avoid hypothermia

If possible, it is worth taking a warm shower (taking a bath during menstruation is undesirable), lying under a blanket.If you need to leave the house, it is better to dress warmly and choose comfortable clothes, without hard elastic bands and belts.

Roman Zakharov for Informburo.kz

– Monitor Power

You cannot go on a hunger strike, even if you suffer from severe nausea. A balanced and regular diet is especially important when the body is depleted. You should try not to eat a lot of salt or sugar, so as not to retain fluid.

– Relax and take a comfortable position

It is better to lie on your side, bending your knees or raising your legs higher.You can do a relaxing self-massage.

– Move more

It is better to postpone sports, but moderate activity – walking, light muscle relaxation exercises can help cope with painful periods.

Is it possible to get rid of pain once and for all?

For many women, menstrual pain decreases with age, and for some, it lasts until menopause. Despite popular belief that pain disappears after childbirth, there is no scientific evidence for this.If the pain during menstruation is not caused by diseases, then they are not dangerous. But this is still not a reason to endure. Therefore, we advise you to undergo a gynecological examination, consult a doctor, choose the right pain reliever and learn to listen to the body.

* E.A. Mezhevitinova, MD, DSc, A.N. Mheryan, P.R. Abakarova, Ph.D., E.R. Dovletkhanova, Ph.D. Scientific Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology named after acad. IN AND. Kulakova, Ministry of Health of Russia, Moscow, “Possibilities of using a drug containing diclofenac and B vitamins in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea”.

Irritable bowel syndrome – ProMedicina Ufa

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder in the digestive system that can cause bowel cramps, flatulence, diarrhea, and constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome cannot be completely cured, but symptoms can be treated with lifestyle changes, dietary changes and, if necessary, drug therapy.

Irritable bowel syndrome is not a life-threatening disease, this disease does not lead to structural disorders of the intestine, it only creates a state of discomfort.

Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common diseases on the planet. According to statistics, about 15 – 20% of the population of our planet suffers from this disease, and people aged 20 to 45 are most susceptible to this disease, and women are 2 times more likely than men. Also, due to not very pronounced symptoms, about 2/3 of the population suffering from irritable bowel syndrome do not seek medical help.

Causes

The disease develops under the influence of a combination of several factors, the main of which are: stress, eating under stress, illiterate diet, too high levels of caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods (fatty foods very strongly stimulate intestinal motor activity), soda, lack of vegetable fiber in the diet, gluttony.

Representatives of the weaker sex suffer more from the disease during menstruation, since the symptoms are provoked by sex hormones, the amount of which is increased during this period.

According to some reports, the syndrome can be triggered by an acute intestinal infection.

People suffering from chronic infectious and parasitic diseases of the digestive system are also at risk.

Most often, IBS is combined with giardiasis, since lamblia secrete substances that destroy the mucous membrane of the large intestine.Persons suffering from dysbiosis are also at risk. The intestines of such people are very sensitive to any minor microflora disorders.

Symptoms

In its manifestations, symptoms, irritable bowel syndrome differs little from typical intestinal disorders. Today, there are several of its variants.

In a variant where diarrhea is the first among the symptoms, there is a pronounced urge to defecate immediately after or even during a meal, and this pattern is repeated several times a day.Morning hours and the first half of the day are more typical for this. Sometimes loose stools occur with strong emotional excitement or experiences, fears. Popularly, this condition is known as “bear disease”, because it is the brown inhabitants of the forest that react with involuntary defecation to fear or danger. Also, with this variant of IBS, bloating, pain in the lateral parts of the abdomen below the navel, which precede the sudden urge and decrease after relief, is observed.
In the variant with a predominance of constipation, all the same bloating and pain along the colon are observed, but accompanied by a stool retention for more than three days.Pain can occur in the form of intestinal colic or have a prolonged aching character, subside somewhat after bowel movement. The stool often changes shape, becomes more dense in the form of “sheep feces” and has an admixture of clear or white mucus. Against the background of stool delays, digestive disorders may also appear in the form of appetite disorders, nausea, heartburn, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

The third option – alternation of diarrhea and constipation A variant of IBS, in which the leading becomes abdominal pain and alternation of constipation or diarrhea – this is the third type of syndrome.

Diagnostics

Often, the above symptoms occur in other, more serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, conducting a full comprehensive survey is relevant.

In case of abdominal pain, stool disorders and flatulence, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist and undergo the following diagnostic tests:

– Complete blood count. Allows you to detect anemia as a manifestation of latent bleeding and an increase in the number of leukocytes, which indicates the presence of inflammation.
– Biochemical blood test. For example, an increase in amylase concentration indicates inflammation of the pancreas-pancreatitis, which explains diarrhea.
– Fecal occult blood test will help determine bleeding that is not even visible to the eye, and increased loss of fat in the feces indicates the presence of pancreatitis.
– Coprological and microscopic examination of feces will reveal the underlying disease, including the infectious process.
– Ultrasound of the abdominal organs is the gold standard for detecting pancreatitis, cholecystitis, neoplasms of internal organs.
– Colonoscopy – instrumental examination of the intestine. Helps in the diagnosis of inflammatory diseases, developmental anomalies, tumors, diverticula (protrusion of the membrane) of the intestine.

In the absence of abnormalities, a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is made.

Treatment

Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome should be comprehensive.

With a predominance of constipation, a diet with the addition of wheat bran is indicated. In case of a predominance of diarrhea, it is recommended to limit foods rich in fiber (vegetables, fruits, bran). All, without exception, patients with irritable bowel syndrome are advised to follow a diet that does not contain caffeine, lactose, fructose, sorbitol, vinegar, alcohol, pepper, smoked meats, as well as foods that cause excessive gas formation – milk, dairy products.

A set of measures aimed at improving the functions of the central nervous system and the correction of autonomic disorders, includes psychotropic drugs, rational psychotherapy.Optimally, the diagnosis of psychoemotional disorders and their elimination should be dealt with by a neuropsychiatrist or psychotherapist.

Indications for the use of antibacterial drugs for irritable bowel syndrome are diarrhea, flatulence and abdominal pain.

After antibacterial therapy, a long-term (up to 1.5-2 months) intake of bacterial preparations (probiotics) is recommended.

All patients with irritable bowel syndrome during an exacerbation of diarrhea are prescribed astringent drugs, as well as decoctions of herbs of a similar effect (chamomile, peppermint, St. John’s wort, alder cones, blueberries and bird cherry).Some antacids can be used for a similar purpose.

With irritable bowel syndrome with a predominance of constipation, it is necessary to develop the lost morning reflex to defecate and increase the amount of dietary fiber in the diet due to the introduction of wheat bran into it. To stimulate defecation at the first stage of developing the lost reflex, 1-2 dessert spoons should be prescribed the night before duphalac (lactulose). Train yourself to empty your bowels every morning.

Normal cycle – What is your period?

If you are one of them, this will soon pass. In any case, the concept of “normal” periods is very broad and includes their onset, duration and symptoms.

On average, women begin their periods between the ages of 11 and 14. A normal cycle lasts 28 days, but it can last from 21 to 35 days. And even longer during puberty! And it will be established only with time.After puberty, most women have a regular menstrual cycle with approximately equal intervals between periods and the same duration of the menstrual period. Menstrual bleeding lasts only 2 to 7 days, with an average duration of 5 days.

The most severe bleeding occurs during the first 2 days. Usually 2-3 tablespoons of blood (30-40 ml) are lost during menstruation. But remember that it always seems like there is more blood.Some women have more bleeding and more often have to change their pads or use pads with a higher absorbency level.

At the peak of menstruation, the blood is red, and on days when the bleeding is less profuse, the blood can be pink, brown or black – this is absolutely normal. Hormonal changes before menstruation can also cause emotional shifts and physical discomfort: diarrhea, back pain, flatulence, nausea, breast enlargement.Some women feel sad before their period and become whiny or irritable. There are signs of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Little joy, but all within normal limits

Over-the-counter pain relievers or light exercise can help ease pain and discomfort. You can also place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your stomach. It helps a lot to get cozy under the duvet. If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain reliever.Symptoms such as flatulence, mood swings, and irritability tend to diminish after your period starts and disappear completely soon after your period ends.

90,000 Living with Endometriosis: The Mysterious State of Health

Author: Female staff

Menstrual cramps are no joke: throbbing pain, bloating that follows, desire to wear sweatpants for a week in a row.There is little you can do to relieve the pain, but take the pain reliever and wait. However, if you experience severe pelvic pain during your menstrual cycle, you may have a more serious medical condition. Living with endometriosis can be painful at times. However, you still have options.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis affects more than five million women in the United States and occurs when uterine tissue, also known as the endometrium, is located in the wrong place, such as outside the uterus or on nearby organs.In a healthy menstruating woman, the endometrium grows inside the uterus and sheds every month during menstruation. In women with endometriosis, tissue cannot leave the body when it sheds during menstruation. This causes severe pelvic pain and other symptoms that cause discomfort.

What are the first signs of endometriosis?

Living with endometriosis can be painful at times. Many women usually describe the pain as more severe than normal menstrual cramps. Endometriosis symptoms include:

• Severe pain during menstruation
• Pelvic pain at any time of the month
• Painful urination or defecation during menstruation
• It hurts to sit down during your period
• infertility
• Bloating, constipation or diarrhea during menstruation
• Great fatigue during menstruation

Causes of endometriosis

The cause of endometriosis is unknown.However, the medical industry suspects that the accumulation of uterine tissue in the fallopian tubes is causing the tissue to flow into the abdominal cavity. In addition, the risk of developing endometriosis is increased in those with a family history of it.

Diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis

Laparoscopic surgery detects and diagnoses endometriosis. The surgeon inserts a small camera into the abdomen to check the endometrial tissue. If the surgeon detects endometriosis, he may remove the tissue with a laser or other surgical instruments.

In addition, hormonal drugs such as birth control pills and medications may help. In addition, they block estrogen and progesterone, relieving pain and other symptoms.

Endometriosis and pregnancy

If you want to get pregnant and have endometriosis, tell your doctor or gynecologist right away. Some medicines used to treat endometriosis can harm the fetus. In most cases, your doctor will advise you to continue taking your endometriosis medication before you try to get pregnant.

If you have pelvic pain and other symptoms associated with endometriosis, make an appointment with your gynecologist. Alternatively, find an obstetrician-gynecologist in the women’s care department. The sooner you are diagnosed, the sooner you can start treatment and return to a healthy and pain-free life.

If you are experiencing endometriosis symptoms, please make an appointment with your doctor here.

90,000 Diarrhea during menstruation: reasons, what to do?

Menstruation for two or three days causes significant discomfort to many women, and in addition to rashes on the face, abdominal pain and mood changes during critical days, diarrhea can occur.

Approximately one third of women of childbearing age overtake diarrhea in the first days of menstruation. However, this phenomenon is not considered a signal of problems in the body and, in principle, is not a reason to worry.

Today we will figure out why diarrhea occurs during menstruation and how to stop the disease.

Diarrhea during menstruation: why there is

Why does diarrhea occur during menstruation?

Diarrhea during menstruation is a completely safe process, albeit unpleasant. In most cases, diarrhea disappears on the very first day of menstruation, but sometimes it can linger for another couple of days.

There is a logical calming explanation for this – at the beginning of critical days, the female body produces a lot of progesterone.

An increase in this hormone provokes a powerful cleansing of the body and, in addition to diarrhea, brings troubles typical for menstruation:

1. Rapid fatigue, lethargy, tearfulness.
2. Slight increase in weight.
3. Acne on the face and décolleté.
4. Headache.
5. Change in appetite, permanent hunger.
6. Soreness when touching the mammary glands, and the like.

Diarrhea during menstruation occurs in every third woman

In addition, during menstruation, the uterus is enlarged and contracts regularly, expelling blood, thereby stimulating the rectal wall.

Such pressure causes the urge to defecate, on the first day of menstrual bleeding, when the volume of blood coming out is maximum, a woman may constantly want to go to the toilet “in a big way.”

Intestinal peristalsis works in the same rhythm with uterine contractions, therefore, as soon as the latter become more frequent, the intestine seems to be synchronized and also accelerates its work.

In addition, during menstruation, women experience sharp changes in food preferences – someone is drawn to sweets, someone, on the contrary, prefers salty or spicy food.

The intestine immediately reacts to unfamiliar food, which irritates its walls and provokes diarrhea. The consumption of sweet foods during menstruation increases the sugar content in the body, causes fermentation in the stomach, bloating, flatulence, and causes diarrhea.

Salty, on the contrary, provokes a strong thirst, the woman often drinks, because of which the feces are liquefied.

Some women experience changes in their taste preferences during PMS

There are two more explanations for why critical days in women are accompanied by diarrhea. Firstly, blood circulation in the small pelvis increases, which significantly affects the work of the digestive tract. Blood rushes to the intestines, stimulates it, pushes it to increased activity.

Secondly, due to the presence of progesterone in an increased amount, women feel more acutely all external problems, become more susceptible, vulnerable, irritable. Light stress can also cause increased intestinal motility and diarrhea.

Diarrhea with PMS: causes

Women who have a hard time enduring menstruation – suffer significant abdominal pain, dizziness, severe symptoms of a psychoemotional nature, can meet with manifestations of diarrhea a week before the onset of menstruation.In this case, diarrhea is considered as part of PMS – premenstrual syndrome.

For many women, critical days are accompanied by abdominal pain and dizziness

A few days before the onset of menstruation, diarrhea occurs for the same reasons that we listed above. The body strives to cleanse itself as soon as possible – this is what nature has in mind. In addition, there are benefits to premenstrual diarrhea.

With the accelerated evacuation of the eaten, women often lose weight, and by the third or fourth day of the cycle they can observe a “plumb line” of the order of two to three kilograms on the scales.

In addition to weight loss, diarrhea that lasts one to two days allows you to feel light in the body and easier to endure the beginning of the period.

Diarrhea instead of menstruation

Sometimes it happens that a woman is expecting the onset of her period and instead gets an attack of diarrhea. In this case, the first step is to visit the pharmacy and purchase a test showing the onset of pregnancy.

Diarrhea before menstruation may be due to pregnancy

The fact is that diarrhea is a very “talking” symptom, which, against the background of a delay in menstruation, indicates a new life that has arisen inside the female body.If, in parallel, a woman experiences nausea in the morning, pain in the mammary glands, intolerance to certain odors and a sharp change in taste preferences.

Diarrhea in this case acts as a method of self-cleaning of the body and is considered the very initial stage of preparation for pregnancy. In this situation, the weakening of the stool can take place within a week, while the woman does not feel pain or discomfort.

Also, diarrhea in the early stages of pregnancy occurs in women planning a child.Often, young ladies who want to become mothers take drugs such as folic acid, magnesium, vitamin B6, or complexes for expectant mothers.

Drink more water

At this time, it is important for a woman to monitor the water balance, and regularly drink clean water. A visit to the doctor must be planned at least in the light of the two strips that appeared on the test, and during the conversation, consult with a gynecologist about diarrhea and find out the doctor’s opinion about the need to take tests and start therapy.

Menstrual diarrhea: pathology

Diarrhea during menstruation is not always natural. Although not often, this process can be caused by pathological changes and a number of diseases. This can be a signal of problems of a gynecological nature or in the urinary system, as well as a marker of unhealthy digestive tract.

Table 1. Pathological causes of diarrhea during menstruation

According to medical statistics, diarrhea during menstruation most often occurs in those women who suffer or have a history of the above diagnoses. Accordingly, for the onset of critical days, you need to prepare in advance in order to minimize or completely prevent diarrhea.

How to relieve period diarrhea?

If the causes of diarrhea are associated with natural causes inherent in the female body, do not rush and immediately take pills for diarrhea, such as “Loperamide” or “Imodium”.

Do not forget that menstruation and its characteristic manifestations are not a disease or its symptoms. Antidiarrheal drugs in this case can work in the opposite direction and cause constipation.

The maximum that can be taken is Polysorb powder.

“Loperamide”

“Imodium”

In addition to the fact that this drug is an enterosorbent, that is, it literally magnetizes toxins, harmful substances and microorganisms to itself, contributing to gentle cleansing and relief of an attack of diarrhea.

Taking “Polysorb” during menstruation is also not bad because it acts in a cleansing way, helping to fight inflammations that have appeared on the face, reducing the oily skin and minimizing allergic rashes.

Polysorb MP

However, you can do without powder. Every woman can completely eliminate diarrhea or completely postpone unpleasant symptoms by paying attention to her diet and rhythm of life. Diet for menstruation is a very effective remedy that counteracts not only the appearance of diarrhea, but also allows other troubles characteristic of critical days to pass by.

Three to four days before the onset of menstruation, it is better to give up heavy, salty or sweet foods, reduce the consumption of foods that stimulate peristalsis and cause fermentation: beets, apples, sour milk products of the first freshness, refuse dried fruits such as prunes.

There is no need to surprise the body these days by trying new products. Even if you are on vacation in an exotic country, postpone the tasting for at least a couple of days.

Unaccustomed food already irritates the intestines, and during menstruation it will almost completely be a powerful provoking factor for diarrhea.

Eating foreign dishes, you risk seriously surprise the gastrointestinal tract and provoke fermentation processes

You need to give preference to porridge boiled in water, soups, lean meats, drink a couple of cups of tea a day, which has anchoring properties.

It is important not to drink hot drinks, as high temperature water provokes diarrhea. Herbal tinctures show a good effect, which will prevent diarrhea from developing.

The following herbs can be used, which have a bactericidal, soothing, astringent effect:

• chamomile;

90,011 yarrow;

• oak bark.

Any of the selected herbs must be brewed in boiling water – two tablespoons require two hundred milliliters of water. The infusion is closed with a lid and cooled to a comfortable temperature, after which it is drunk in three or four doses in equal shares.

There are other ways to minimize troubles with menstruation. Valerian extract works well, which can be drunk in the evening, and then before going to bed on the first or second day of menstruation. Valerian normalizes the psycho-emotional state, allows you to sleep better and prevents diarrhea from developing against the background of violent emotions.

Valerian tincture

Also, in the first days of menstruation, activity that causes increased intestinal motility is not encouraged. For a day or two, it is better to give up sports or physical activity, the maximum is a leisurely walk.

In case of painful menstruation, a woman needs to postpone all affairs to the maximum and ensure comfort and peace for herself

Diarrhea during menstruation: should I go to the doctor?

We have already found out that short-term diarrhea against the background of menstruation is a natural process that should not cause fear in a woman.But it also happens that dyspeptic disorders take on an alarming character, and it will not be superfluous to discuss the problem with a doctor. So, it is worth making a visit to the hospital if:

1. Diarrhea does not go away within three days (for natural reasons, diarrhea cannot last longer).
2. Loose stools include bloody discharge, greens, foaming, too dark or discolored, strong unpleasant odor.
3. Vomiting, fever, dizziness, severe abdominal pain are connected to diarrhea.

We have already figured out that in some cases, the causes of diarrhea are not female nature at all, but pathological changes in the body. Since menstruation comes to women on a regular and monthly basis, there is nothing surprising in the fact that the initial or acute form of any disease can occur at this time.

Video – Three questions women are embarrassed to ask about periods

Activity summary

Diarrhea during menstruation is an unpleasant phenomenon, but quite understandable and in most cases harmless.If a woman knows that the onset of critical days will be overshadowed by frequent trips to the toilet, you need to take measures in advance, not force yourself to solve important issues, but just relax and lead a relaxed lifestyle for a couple of days.

It is important to revise the diet for this period, limit activity, devote time to quiet hobbies, or simply spend more time in a comfortable position. At the same time, you should listen to your body with special sensitivity, and seek help from doctors if the situation has ceased to resemble natural for a woman.

Source: https://stomach-info.ru/bolezni-kishechnika/ponos/ponos-pri-mesyachnyih-pochemu-voznikaet.html

Causes of diarrhea with menstruation

Unfortunately, diarrhea during menstruation is not uncommon. The female body is designed so that menstruation occurs every month when the egg matures. Together with the blood, an unfertilized egg and the lining of the uterus leave the body.

Critical days for most women are painful, they are worried about the feeling of a bloated abdomen, swelling, pain, bad mood.

In some of them, hormonal changes end not only with menstruation, but also with unpleasant surprises on the face in the form of rashes and acne.

However, these are not all the side effects of menstruation. Sometimes, with this natural process, the female body fails, the process of digestion and bowel movement is disrupted. This usually results in excess gas, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Why does diarrhea occur during menstruation

Many experts argue that such a feature at the onset of critical days, as a violation of bowel emptying, is a completely natural phenomenon and in no case should you be afraid of this.

It should be noted that in case of diarrhea on the background of menstruation, only 3% of women are associated with an intestinal infection. For the rest, this occurs in connection with hormonal changes and the production of an increased amount of progesterone. Usually, experts advise not to panic if diarrhea begins during menstruation. The female body, with the arrival of menstruation, begins to produce more female hormone, the internal organs begin to cleanse themselves, hence the frequent urge and loose stools. The body, as it were, gives a signal that it is time to cleanse all organs and systems of the body along with the release of blood from the woman’s body. It is for this reason that diarrhea can occur very often. This phenomenon most often disappears within one day, but it can be delayed until the end of the cycle.

With the cessation of bleeding, the swelling decreases and the abdomen falls off. Many people experience weight loss after their period ends.

There are other causes of digestive upset, for example, it can be the so-called irritable bowel syndrome or too relaxed vaginal muscles during menstruation.

Sometimes the opposite problem occurs during menstruation, such as constipation. Therefore, very often during one cycle, a woman may suffer from frequent urge to use the toilet, and in the next there is a problem of the impossibility of complete emptying of the intestines.

Another cause of diarrhea is changing taste preferences during critical days. The body thus reacts to unusual foods that enter the stomach, the process of digestion and assimilation of food is disrupted.The intestinal walls are irritated, it begins to contract involuntarily, and frequent emptying occurs.

The role of nutrition in solving the problem

Do not experiment with food during critical days. You should limit the consumption of spicy, smoked and fatty foods. Also, you should not eat large quantities of vegetables and fruits that cause gas formation and fermentation in the digestive organs.

It is best to use cereal cereals and bran bread during critical days.If, nevertheless, diarrhea made itself felt, then rice porridge will help to stop it. It has a good fixing effect.

You need to eat in small portions and at least 5 times a day.

Such a routine applies not only to the period of menstruation, but also to the constant regime of a woman who seeks both to feel good and to have a beautiful slender figure.

Food must be fresh and of high quality, fast food, chips and carbonated drinks must be excluded from the diet, since they do not benefit the body, but only empty calories and excess weight.

Most often, compliance with these recommendations leads to an improvement in the body’s work on critical days.

Vomiting during menstruation

There is a category of women for whom menstruation and diarrhea are inseparable phenomena, they always have this natural process in this way. But some women vomit during menstruation – this phenomenon is alarming.

It should be remembered that if vomiting is accompanied by increased menstruation, then this may be due to some gynecological diseases, in this case you need to immediately call an ambulance.

It is strictly forbidden to self-medicate and prescribe drugs for yourself, this can lead to sad consequences. Indeed, most often vomiting and diarrhea are signals of a more severe and serious illness, and only a specialist can accurately name the cause of such a woman’s condition.

Diarrhea with delayed periods

Sometimes the exact opposite situation arises when, instead of the expected onset of bleeding, a woman has diarrhea and nausea. This is mainly due to the possible onset of pregnancy.

In this case, frequent companions of diarrhea and vomiting are fever, frequent urge to urinate. The body begins to intensively cleanse itself and prepare for bearing a child, which is why all these unpleasant symptoms arise.

In case of a delay in menstruation, vomiting and diarrhea can last up to 10 days, as a rule, there are no painful sensations in the abdomen.

Diarrhea during menstruation occurs most often due to an excess of progesterone and an improper diet, in the event that diarrhea is accompanied by vomiting and fever, you should urgently consult a specialist.

Perhaps this is the beginning or a consequence of a more serious disease that needs to be identified and treated in time.

It is important to listen carefully to the signals of your body – this will help to avoid many problems associated with the health and normal functioning of the digestive system and other organs.

Source: https://zavorota.ru/kishechnik/ponos-pri-mesyachnyx.html

Why does diarrhea occur during menstruation

For most women, menstruation begins with a severe deterioration in well-being.The condition returns to normal only on day 2-3 of the cycle. Diarrhea during menstruation is a common occurrence. Sometimes this is a manifestation of gastrointestinal diseases, since it is during menstruation that the female body is weakened.

Loose stools should not be accompanied by worries if the symptom has appeared only once and is not accompanied by additional negative signs. Diarrhea due to physiological underlying causes does not need treatment and disappears on its own.

In case of alarming manifestations, you should visit a doctor and undergo a diagnosis.

Menstruation may be accompanied by diarrhea

When diarrhea is not associated with disease

Diarrhea during critical days in most cases is not due to the course of pathologies. Usually the symptom is associated with intense hormonal changes. The main root causes of the condition are presented in the table.

All of these factors are physiological.No treatment is required. The condition is normalized without outside interference. Usually, diarrhea disappears already on the second day of the menstrual cycle.

The condition is generally satisfactory. For physiological reasons, diarrhea usually occurs no more than 2-3 times a day. Toilet calls should not be too frequent.

As soon as menstruation begins, the hormonal background changes

What diseases can be

Diarrhea may be the result of existing pathological processes.In most cases – infectious abnormalities, which, if untreated, lead to the formation of complications. It is also impossible to exclude diseases of the genitourinary system and reproductive organs.

Diarrhea may coincide with critical days. Do not exclude the likelihood of an exacerbation of chronic diseases, since it is during menstruation that a woman’s body is most vulnerable and prone to various deviations.

The most common cause is a bend in the uterus. This pathology is characterized by a severe course.It is accompanied by pain and severe stool disturbance. The intestines are irritated. The deviation does not respond to treatment, but sometimes disappears after delivery.

In endometriosis, cells are able to enter the intestinal tract. Usually, with pathology, there is pain during bowel movements. There is blood in the liquid stool. Cystitis is also manifested by diarrhea. In addition, the woman complains of frequent urination. There is soreness in the abdomen.

With regular diarrhea, it is necessary to exclude gastrointestinal diseases.Often these diseases make themselves felt precisely during critical days.

Another reason is intestinal infection. This violation is the result of the consumption of low-quality food or unwashed fruits and vegetables. Symptoms also occur with infrequent hand hygiene, especially after using the toilet.

Intestinal infection can also cause diarrhea

What is the characteristic of diarrhea

If the condition is due to menstruation, then diarrhea appears in the morning.Even a week before the critical days, a woman may notice stool disturbances. The symptom is accompanied by moderate pain in the abdomen.

Going to the toilet brings relief during menstruation. For a while, the pains in the abdomen subside. The urge to defecate should not be more than 3 times a day. With more frequent diarrhea after the end of the critical days, you will need to see a doctor.

When to see a doctor

A good reason to see a doctor is the presence of diarrhea even after the end of menstruation.Consultation of a therapist or gastroenterologist is required.

Alarming symptoms include:

• Uncharacteristic unpleasant odor from feces;
• the presence of mucous inclusions in feces;
• significant discoloration of feces;

Bad stool odor can be a bad symptom

• The presence of green or bloody streaks;
• the presence of a foamy consistency.

In the presence of the listed manifestations, it is required to immediately seek help from a doctor.

How to relieve the condition

In case of diarrhea, you need to direct your efforts to restore the state. To alleviate the condition, you need:

• to minimize the impact of stress;
• Refuse to consume any junk food, for example, fatty, fried, overly salty, spicy;
• to quit smoking and consumption and alcohol-containing beverages;
• give preference to light physical activity.

Any medicines are taken only in consultation with the doctor and when absolutely necessary.Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Products must be fresh and of high quality. In addition, there should be a drinking regimen. Limit the amount of caffeine.

This video will tell you what happens to the body during the menstrual cycle:

You can eat cottage cheese and crackers. Drink strong tea instead of coffee. Confectionery must be excluded. If the symptom is accompanied by abdominal pain, then you need to rest as much as possible and take a horizontal position. With menstruation, you should give preference only to positive emotions.

Reduce the amount of salt. Drink should be warm. Cold or excessively hot is prohibited. You can use unconventional methods to alleviate the condition. However, you should first consult your doctor. The doctor will select effective recipes.

Source: https://mesyachnie.com/informacija/ponos-pri-menstruacii.html

Bowel disorder in women on critical days

Women are more prone to intestinal disorders than men due to the physiological characteristics of the body.They are manifested by functional intestinal disorders, including spastic colitis, less often constipation or diarrhea during menstruation. They are subjective in nature, but, nevertheless, cause concern on the part of the fairer sex.

Often during menstruation, a woman develops diarrhea

Causes of intestinal disorders during menstruation

Numerous complaints from many patients about changes in the frequency and nature of stools on the eve of or during menstruation have led to basic and clinical research, which were aimed at studying changes in progesterone and estrogen levels and their effect on the functioning of the digestive system.As a result, the reasons were identified that affect the frequency of bowel movements, and in some cases, the appearance of diarrhea during menstruation with a regular menstrual cycle.

The female body on critical days is unnecessarily weakened and subject to various external influences or internal disturbances.

It has been proven that most women of reproductive age experience unpleasant symptoms before and during menstruation: weakness, headaches and dizziness, pain in the lower abdomen, nausea.

And only a third of them complain of vomiting, flatulence, intestinal cramps and diarrhea during menstruation. What are the causes of such a common ailment, and how to deal with it?

Important! A minor bowel disorder during menstruation has a beneficial effect on a woman’s body.

Common causes of upset stools and associated symptoms are:

• Changes in hormonal levels, since during this period the level of prostaglandins increases, which cause muscle contraction of the intestinal walls.
• blood filling of the pelvic organs, as well as increased contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus, which affects intestinal motility.
• An increase in vagus nerve tone, which is manifested by hypotension, profuse sweating, freezing of the hands, also affects the functioning of the intestines.
• A change in taste that leads to the consumption of foods that have a laxative effect.

Stool disorder can occur not only during menstruation, but also on the eve of their appearance.As a rule, this process is normal and does not cause side complications and pathological changes.

It has been proven that normal diarrhea before menstruation and during their discharge lasts only 2-3 days, after which it disappears without a trace.

Experts say that in this way the body cleans itself from harmful substances and toxins, restoring the normal functions of organs and systems. Therefore, physiological diarrhea does not require special treatment.

When diarrhea on critical days – pathology

Not always diarrhea that occurs on the first day of menstruation is a physiological process associated with cleansing the body.Sometimes it can be a manifestation of some serious illness, and its appearance at the beginning of the menstrual cycle is a mere coincidence.

To verify this, you should pay attention to the nature of the stool, accompanying symptoms, the duration of diarrhea. If, after menstruation, the stool has not returned to normal, but as before has a liquid consistency, you should urgently consult a therapist or gastroenterologist.

In this case, diarrhea may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

• unpleasant odor;
• by the presence of mucus;
• color change;
• The presence of greenery or blood streaks;
• by acquiring a watery consistency.

During menstruation, you should rest more and exclude nervous disorders

Only a specialist after a survey and finding out why with monthly diarrhea, as well as after receiving the results of laboratory tests, can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Attention! Diarrhea, accompanied by fever, nausea and vomiting, may be due to intestinal poisoning or a symptom of a more serious illness.

Diarrhea on critical days: to treat or not

For upset stools, a strict diet should be followed.

To alleviate the condition of a woman during menstruation and eliminate diarrhea, it is recommended:

• change the diet, excluding foods that cause flatulence, as well as heavy foods: fried, fatty, spicy foods;
• include fresh vegetables and fruits in the daily diet, switch to frequent and fractional meals;
• increase the volume of liquid you drink, and decoctions from tansy, nettle, rose hips have an excellent effect;
• Engage in gentle physical activity as it helps balance hormones;
• eliminate irritating factors: stressful situations, nervous disorders, increased physical activity, give the body rest and good nutrition.

During menstruation, experts recommend including foods with a strengthening effect in the diet. These include:

• strong meat broths;
• black tea;

90,011 cottage cheese;

• white bread rusks;
• cereals: buckwheat, rice, oatmeal.

If during menstruation diarrhea is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, we can confidently talk about intestinal poisoning. In this case, you should reconsider the diet, or even go on a strict diet.

In this case, it is necessary to visit a doctor who will determine the nature of diarrhea, vomiting and other alarming symptoms and prescribe the appropriate therapeutic measures: drug therapy, exercise, appropriate nutrition.

The author of the article: Krylova Natalia

All materials on the site ozhivote.ru are presented for review, contraindications are possible, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY! Do not self-diagnose and self-medicate!

Source: https: // ozhivote.ru / ponos-v-kriticheskie-dni /

Diarrhea during menstruation – what can such symptoms indicate?

Why diarrhea with menstruation is a question that interests a large number of girls. Diarrhea is often the first symptom of an approaching period. On such days, diarrhea does not require treatment, it goes away on its own in the same way as it occurs. This is what constitutes the main problem, since getting rid of diarrhea during menstruation with a medication is sometimes very difficult.

In some women, diarrhea appears only on the first day of menstruation, and in some throughout the entire period of menstruation. There can be many reasons for this manifestation, therefore, many women are interested in why diarrhea appears during menstruation, and whether this is normal.

Causes of diarrhea during menstruation

An intestinal disorder is always associated with loose stools. In this case, loose stools become the result of infections and inflammation in the body.Diarrhea during menstruation differs in that it is not accompanied by a high temperature. However, other characteristics may be present such as:

• discomfort in the abdomen;
• headache;
• nausea.

Diarrhea during menstruation appears due to contractions of the walls of the uterus. Such movements spread to nearby organs, including the intestines. Under the influence of this activity, diarrhea begins. In this case, diarrhea is combined with soreness in the lower abdomen.Also diarrhea during menstruation can be caused by other factors:

1. Diarrhea before menstruation can occur due to an increase in the level of the hormone prostaglandin, which can affect all organs and systems in the body. The peculiarity of this enzyme is that it acts in a relaxing way on the muscle tissue of the intestine.
2. Diarrhea during menstruation can also appear under the influence of a change in hormonal levels. The body of a woman during menstruation strives for cleansing, and therefore the intestines begin to excrete all harmful and toxic substances.
3. Sometimes the reason why diarrhea occurs during menstruation is diseases of the digestive system. During menstruation, a woman’s body becomes more susceptible to external influences, and therefore diseases become aggravated, which causes the development of diarrhea.
4. Diarrhea during menstruation is sometimes the result of increased blood flow to the organs of the genitourinary system and the abdominal cavity. With increased stress, the intestine reacts with disorder.
5. On the first day of menstruation, diarrhea may appear along with severe pain in the lower abdomen and bleeding.The reason for such manifestations is the bend of the uterus. The problem goes away on its own after childbirth, as the woman’s hips expand and the uterus acquires a normal position.

The most common and main cause of diarrhea during menstruation is hormonal disruptions and disorders. In this case, it will not be possible to get rid of diarrhea. Efforts can only be directed at reducing symptoms and their intensity.

Loose stools during menstruation is the norm

As a rule, diarrhea before menstruation in women occurs at different times.In some, the disorder is observed with the arrival of menstruation, on the first day, while others have diarrhea a week before menstruation. It is at this time that the stool begins to gradually liquefy. Further, the symptoms are especially pronounced in the last two days before the onset of menstruation.

Basically, at this time, loose stools are observed in the morning, accompanied by severe pain. You need to pay attention to the frequency of the urge to defecate. It is considered normal when you want to go to the toilet for the most part no more than three times a day.

Otherwise, you need to see a doctor, since diarrhea is most likely caused by a disease in the digestive tract.

In most cases, the cause of diarrhea during critical days is the usual premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, at the end of menstruation, upset bowel syndrome will go away by itself.

Infection or premenstrual syndrome?

An upset stomach may result from an infection entering the body.In this case, the signs of intestinal or gastric upset are very similar to those of premenstrual syndrome. The only difference is that the signs of an infectious disease appear somewhat stronger. In general, the disorder is manifested by the following symptoms:

• loose stools, which appear quite often;
• severe headache;
• general weakness in the body;
• high body temperature;
• nausea;
• painful sensations in the abdominal cavity;
• vomiting.

Loose stools during menstruation, combined with the listed symptoms, can only be observed with an extremely severe course of menstruation. In other cases, you should worry, since such signs should be attributed to manifestations of diseases.

In this case, the infection must be detected as soon as possible, so as not to cause an even more severe disorder and spread of the infection.
You should also be concerned if diarrhea continues after your period.In this case, the color and smell of feces are of great importance. Alarming are streaks of blood, green and black inclusions, and a strong unpleasant odor.

If these signs are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, diarrhea is likely due to an exacerbation of the disease.

Prevention measures

In order to relieve the symptoms of diarrhea during menstruation, a woman needs to follow some preventive measures. In the second half of the menstrual cycle, you should switch to a special dietary food.The following foods must be present in the diet:

• meat broths, preferably strong;

90,011 cottage cheese;

• strong black tea;
• buckwheat, oatmeal;

90,011 potatoes;

• rusks;
• white bread.

These products have a strong firming effect. The feces become harder. However, you should be careful about your diet and not overload the intestines with too heavy food, otherwise constipation and intestinal obstruction may occur.

The diet also includes the temporary exclusion of certain foods from the diet. In the period before menstruation, the following products should be abandoned:

• cabbage;

90,011 beets;

• cucumbers;
• legumes;
• alcohol;
• coffee;
• milk products;
• juices;
• Fig.

Important! It is not recommended to take medications to eliminate diarrhea in premenstrual syndrome, as they can harm the body.It is better to use folk recipes to relieve symptoms. For example, a decoction of chamomile, oak bark or St. John’s wort can help well.

Alternatively, you can swallow a few black peppercorns. To relieve pain caused by a spasm in the intestines, you can use the herbal preparation No-shpa.

Diarrhea during delayed periods

Delayed menstruation and diarrhea often go hand in hand. It should be noted that the combination of these symptoms does not appear just like that.

Diarrhea and delayed menstruation occur due to the fact that the hormonal background in a woman’s body is seriously changing. All systems and organs begin to prepare for carrying a pregnancy, and therefore the ratios of hormones begin to change.

An increase in progesterone in the blood has a relaxing effect on the intestines and other organs of the digestive tract.

In addition, in addition to loose stools, other symptoms appear, such as headache, breast enlargement, apathy, increased body fatigue, drowsiness and decreased performance.Diarrhea during pregnancy can last for a couple of months.

Know! Diarrhea with delayed menstruation is a sure sign of pregnancy.

In the future, the feces will become harder, even constipation is observed in the last months of pregnancy. Sometimes diarrhea appears before the delay of menstruation, in this case it is too early to talk about pregnancy.

You should wait 2-3 days, if the critical days do not come on time, you need to buy a pregnancy test.Often, with diarrhea and delay, a woman’s lower back pulls, which is also a sign of pregnancy.

In the first weeks, the ovum is fixed, and therefore painful sensations arise.

Diarrhea during ovulation

The occurrence of diarrhea during ovulation does not indicate a direct relationship between these phenomena. However, diarrhea can occur during ovulation as a result of irritable bowel syndrome.

This syndrome occurs due to a decrease in the distance between the egg and the intestine.As a result of increased stress on the intestines and abdominal cavity, irritation in these organs increases.

Ovulation can also cause an increased contraction of the intestinal walls, which in turn causes a thinning of the stool. Getting rid of diarrhea that occurs during ovulation or during premenstrual syndrome with drugs will not work.

The only thing that can be done in this case is to adjust the power supply. Some folk methods can also help.However, you should be especially careful about the symptoms of the disorder. If diarrhea continues after ovulation, especially with an increase in temperature, you should visit your doctor.

Source: https://PriPonose.ru/simptomy/pri-mesyachnyh-ponos.html

Causes of diarrhea: Why does diarrhea begin during menstruation?

Many girls are worried about why diarrhea begins during menstruation. Those who are especially impressionable are even frightened when they have diarrhea during menstruation.Nevertheless, this phenomenon has a simple explanation.

Causes of diarrhea during menstruation

Diarrhea during menstruation is a fairly common occurrence, so you should not be afraid of it in most cases. Aside from the discomfort, the disorder is usually harmless. Why does diarrhea occur with the onset of menstruation? Doctors point to the following reasons:

1. Progesterone production. During menstruation, an increased production of this hormone occurs, and its excess causes the body to need to cleanse itself.Diarrhea is the body’s most natural way to cleanse itself.
2. Ration. For many women, taste preferences change before and during menstruation. If a woman eats foods that are unusual for the body, he may “respond” with indigestion. This happens due to irritation of the intestinal walls.
3. Features of the body. Certain diseases and characteristics of the body increase the risk of diarrhea. For example, women diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome are at risk.
4. Painful sensations. If during menstruation a woman experiences abdominal pain, they may also be accompanied by diarrhea. This reaction is especially characteristic for cramping pains – the stronger the contractions, the more the intestinal walls contract and the greater the risk of diarrhea.
5. Elevated prostaglandin levels. In turn, they contribute to an increased contraction of the muscles of the intestinal walls. Diarrhea is often a response to these contractions.
6. Hormonal imbalance.During menstruation, the hormonal background changes. An imbalance in hormones can cause disorders in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
7. Increased blood circulation in the pelvic organs. Diarrhea is one of the external manifestations of increased blood supply.
8. Vagus nerve tone. On the first day of menstruation, nerve tone is often increased. This is evidenced by increased salivation, hypotension, increased sweating, cold palms. Some doctors are of the opinion that such symptoms also affect bowel function.

If diarrhea accompanies the first days of menstruation, a woman should not worry about this at all. As a rule, this situation does not require treatment, and the bowel function normalizes by itself.

Causes of concern

In some situations, it is nevertheless worth paying more attention to your health. These are the symptoms that cause you to see a doctor:

1. Diarrhea accompanied by vomiting. If a woman has never had diarrhea during menstruation, or even more diarrhea with vomiting, she should consult a doctor, since this situation may be a sign of any disease (for example, food poisoning).If a woman’s periods are always accompanied by such symptoms, then there is no reason to see a doctor.
2. Prolonged diarrhea. If diarrhea lasts more than three days, and is also accompanied by vomiting and profuse discharge, this is a reason to consult a gynecologist.
3. Delay of menstruation. Sometimes, while menstruation should begin, a woman begins to have diarrhea, and the menstruation itself does not occur. This is also not normal. However, this may also indicate pregnancy.Therefore, in such a situation, it makes sense to purchase a pregnancy test. Pregnancy is especially likely if the diarrhea is accompanied by frequent urination, vomiting, and fever. On the other hand, diarrhea that started before your period can delay your period. Very often, girls react to this phenomenon with panic, especially if they do not want to get pregnant. Panic leads to stress, which in turn leads to an even longer delay in menstruation. Therefore, the most important thing in such a situation is to calm down.
4. Diarrhea after menses. If the diarrhea does not stop at the end of menstruation, this is also a reason to see a doctor.

Normal diarrhea stops within the first three days after the onset of menstruation. This is due to the fact that the hormonal surge has declined, the hormonal background is gradually leveled out, and the blood supply to the pelvic organs decreases.

Treatment of diarrhea during menstruation

In most cases, diarrhea during this period does not require any treatment.

Nevertheless, in some cases, it can cause severe discomfort, for example, at work, where it is not possible to empty the intestines as soon as necessary. In this case, doctors give the following recommendations:

1. Disclaimer of certain products. Thanks to a well-formulated diet, you can easily prevent diarrhea and relieve the condition. So, you just need to exclude unusual and new foods, fatty, spicy, fried and spicy foods from the diet. A few days before the onset of menstruation, exclude beets, prunes, dried apricots, plums from the diet, since these products have a laxative effect.
2. Eat healthy foods. These include any cereals, bread. Rice and oatmeal and wholemeal baked goods are especially useful for diarrhea. Apples, bananas and cheese work well for the intestines.
3. Power mode. First, it is better to eat less, but more often. Secondly, eat only fresh and proven foods.
4. Drinking regime. It is simply necessary to restore bowel function. Pure water, green and black tea, jelly, herbal decoctions – these are the most beneficial drinks for the intestines.By the way, it is better to refuse coffee, because in many people it causes irritation of the intestines and, as a result, diarrhea.

In addition, if possible, you should adhere to other recommendations:

1. Maintain bed rest. It is extremely difficult to cause diarrhea at rest. If it is not possible to lie in bed, you should try to at least exclude physical activity.
2. Do not take pills for indigestion. Medicines can have the opposite effect.
3. Lead a passive lifestyle. For a while, you need to give up any physical activity, sports, outdoor activities.
4. Provide the body with rest. You need to spend more time lying or half-sitting in a relaxed state.
5. Emotional state. If possible, you do not need to solve serious problems during menstruation, especially if you feel unwell or diarrhea. Against the background of stress and experiences, diarrhea can even begin on its own, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle.
6. Relaxation. In the first days of menstruation, it is better to devote time to yourself: do what you love, watch a movie calmly or read a book wrapped in a blanket – every girl knows better what activity gives her positive emotions.

Prevention of diarrhea also plays an important role, which should be considered long before the onset of menstruation.

Preventive measures

Prevention is reduced to strengthening the muscles of the intestinal walls. Methods to achieve this include:

1. Sports activities.Despite the fact that during menstruation it is better not to engage in active sports, the rest of the time an active and athletic lifestyle, on the contrary, strengthens the body as a whole. This activity has a positive effect on the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Performing special exercises.