Periods and poop 

Have you ever noticed the change in your bowel movements during PMS & your period? If you have, jsk you are not alone. Our hormone levels can really change the way our bowels work if it is diarrhea, constipation, fart cramps & running to the loo more than usual.

We have a variety of hormones gushing through our bodies & especially during menstruation! During periods we have higher levels of prostaglandins that stimulate contractions in the uterus and bowels (eureka) while the changing levels of progesterone levels can have constipating effects on your body around ovulation.

During menstruation, we tend to poo much more than average & you may find yourself rushing to the toilet more than 3 times a day: “is this my 4th poo of the day? What did I eat? Is this normal in any way? We are here to tell you that it is normal ! those extra difficult bowel movements during menstruation due to hormonal shifts that take place before & during periods. So don’t be alarmed if your poo is smells absolutely awful- you are not alone here dear. 

PMS can be a headache literally and physically, but what some don’t realize is that your PMS is not only about your uterus but it can also involve gastro discomfort and changes in bowel movement like pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and even vomiting. 

How does it work? Your body releases an abundance of prostaglandins during PMS- these compounds really stimulate our smooth muscles (muscles that you cannot control on demand) of the uterus which cause muscle contractions that support your body in shedding it’s uterine lining. In the poop case this hormone stimulates your bowels which can lead to extra toilet time

 What can I do to ease the pain and poop less?

Well, tackling diarrhea is the same in every situation so it would be no different during menstruation… the key is quite basic (sorry):

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid caffeine 
• Avoid alcohol, processed foods

Basically live a healthy lifestyle and take care of your lovely vessel.