Have you ever noticed that your bathroom habits change during your period? If so, you're not alone! Many people experience what's often called "period poops" - changes in their bowel movements that coincide with their menstrual cycle.
Let's dive into this common but rarely discussed phenomenon, explore why it happens and what you can do about it.
What are "period poops"? "Period poops " refer to the changes in bowel movements that many people experience during their menstrual cycle, particularly when they're on their period.
These changes can include
more frequent trips to the bathroom changes in stool consistency and sometimes even digestive discomfort. While it might seem weird or embarrassing, it's actually a normal part of the menstrual cycle for many folks.
Your menstrual cycle involves a complex dance of hormones and hormone-like chemicals, and these hormones don't just affect your reproductive system - they can influence your entire body, including your digestive system.
The two main culprits behind period poops are progesterone and prostaglandins Progesterone affects digestion during the luteal phase Progesterone is a hormone produced primarily by the ovaries after ovulation. It helps prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle. Progesterone levels peak about a week before your period starts, then drop rapidly if pregnancy doesn't occur.
Progesterone is the hormone responsible for food cravings in the lead up to menstruation. It also slows down the speed at which food moves through your body , potentially causing constipation.
Prostaglandins affect digestion during menstruation As progesterone levels drop and your period starts, your body releases substances called prostaglandins . These are like hormones, and one of their roles in our bodies is to make your uterus contract to shed its lining. The falling progesterone tells your body, “hey! I’m not pregnant!” and it responds by making prostaglandins, which kick off menstruation and the shedding of the uterine lining.
When your body produces more prostaglandins than it needs, they will affect other smooth muscles too, such as your bowels. The result is more poop, and more frequent trips to the bathroom.
These physiological changes may cause behavior and mood changes too, which in turn can worsen digestive issues Not only are there chemical changes inside your body that can contribute to period poops, these chemical changes can also contribute to mood and behavior changes that lead to stomach troubles.
Food cravings: As progesterone rises in the weeks before your period, many people experience food cravings, often for fatty or sugary foods — the same types of foods which can contribute to digestive problems.
Mood changes: Stress and anxiety, which can increase during your period, can also impact your bowel movements .
When to Seek Help Remember, while these changes are common, severe or persistent digestive issues should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
If you're experiencing extreme pain, very heavy bleeding, or drastic changes in your bowel movements, it's best to get checked out and see a doctor.
Understanding period poops can help you feel more comfortable and in control Our bodies are complex and amazing, and the connection between your menstrual cycle and your digestive system is just one example of how interconnected everything is.
By paying attention to these changes and taking care of yourself, you can navigate your menstrual cycle with more ease and less discomfort. Everyone's body is different, so what's normal for you might be different from someone else.
