Why Do We Get ‘Period Poops’—And What to Do About Them
If you’ve ever experienced irregular bowel movements during your period, you’re not alone.
If you’ve ever experienced irregular bowel movements during your period, you’re not alone.
Your menstrual cycle can lead to symptoms like bloating, cramping, and changes in your bowel movements. Many people experience diarrhea while on their period (commonly known as “period poops”). We spoke to doctors about what causes the phenomenon and how best to manage stomach-related issues associated with your menstrual cycle. [time-brightcove not-tgx=”true”]
What causes “period poops”?
In the week or two leading up to your period, it’s not uncommon to experience constipation and bloating. That’s because your body is releasing more progesterone (in preparation for a possible pregnancy), which can relax your gut muscles so your gastrointestinal system “doesn’t move things along as quickly,” says Dr. Wendi LeBrett, a gastroenterologist in Idaho. But when you start your period, your progesterone levels drop. “I describe this as taking the brakes off,” LeBrett says. “Then, all of a sudden, whatever’s been slowing down your gut is gone, and so then there’s an increase in gut motility.”
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