Causes of Loose Stools During Menstruation

Many people experience loose stools during their menstrual period. Here’s an overview of the causes of loose stools during menstruation and ways to manage them.

Why Do Loose Stools Occur During Menstruation?

The cause of loose stools during menstruation is related to hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle.

From pre-ovulation to post-ovulation, progesterone levels increase. Progesterone suppresses uterine contractions and also reduces bowel movements by slowing down the intestines, which can lead to constipation during this time.

When menstruation begins, progesterone decreases, and constipation may be relieved. However, another hormone, prostaglandin, which promotes uterine contractions, is released. Prostaglandin also stimulates bowel movements, so as the intestines start moving again, it can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Tips for Managing Diarrhea

1. Keep Warm

To counteract hormone-induced diarrhea, keep your body warm. Warming the abdomen can help prevent the intestines from becoming overactive. Consider wearing warmer clothes, soaking in a warm bath, or eating warming foods like ginger.

2. Watch Your Diet

Avoid foods that can trigger diarrhea, such as spicy or cold foods, which can irritate the intestines. Additionally, foods like fruit and legumes, which contain sugars and sweeteners that retain water in the intestines, may also cause diarrhea. Caffeine, especially from coffee, can stimulate the digestive tract, so it’s best to limit it.

3. Medication

For those who worry about sudden diarrhea during menstruation, over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications that can be taken without water are helpful.

Certain pain relievers can also reduce prostaglandin production, helping to prevent both menstrual pain and diarrhea.

When to See a Doctor

Diarrhea during menstruation is common and usually resolves as the period ends. However, if diarrhea or constipation continues beyond your menstrual cycle, consult a doctor.

Frequent diarrhea or constipation could indicate digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, so seeking medical advice and appropriate treatment is essential.

• Herbal Medicine

Doctors may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce prostaglandin production and relieve pain.

Herbal medicine can also be prescribed to improve blood circulation and balance, aiming to improve symptoms over time. Though not a direct remedy for diarrhea, herbal medicine, combined with pain relief, may help reduce future symptoms.

• Low-Dose Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills can help alleviate menstrual pain and diarrhea by stopping ovulation, which in turn reduces prostaglandin production. However, low-dose birth control pills require medical consultation, as they may not suit everyone’s constitution.