Experiencing constipation during your menstrual period is common. This phenomenon is linked to the body’s natural physiological changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Understanding these shifts helps explain why digestive patterns vary around menstruation.
Hormonal Fluctuations and Gut Motility
The primary hormonal driver behind period-related constipation is progesterone. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise and remain elevated throughout the luteal phase. This increase in progesterone is essential for preparing the uterus for a potential pregnancy.
Progesterone has a widespread relaxing effect on smooth muscles throughout the body, including those found in the digestive tract. This relaxation slows down the rhythmic contractions of the intestinal muscles, a process known as gut motility. As gut motility decreases, the transit time of waste through the intestines lengthens. This extended transit allows more water to be absorbed from the stool, resulting in harder, more difficult-to-pass bowel movements and contributing to constipation. While estrogen levels also fluctuate during the cycle and can indirectly influence gut function, progesterone is considered the main hormonal factor for constipation during this phase.
Prostaglandins and Pelvic Discomfort
Prostaglandins also play a role in menstrual-related digestive changes. These compounds are produced by the uterine lining and initiate uterine contractions to shed the lining during menstruation. While often associated with increasing gut motility and sometimes leading to diarrhea, high levels of prostaglandins, particularly PGF2alpha, can also disrupt normal bowel function in complex ways.
The increased prostaglandin activity and the general inflammatory response in the pelvic area can create an environment of discomfort and disruption for the intestines. This pelvic discomfort, combined with the strong uterine contractions, can indirectly make bowel movements more challenging or infrequent, contributing to a feeling of constipation. While prostaglandins typically promote contractions, their overall impact during menstruation can contribute to constipation for some individuals.
Lifestyle and Dietary Contributions
Beyond hormonal influences, lifestyle and dietary habits can worsen or alleviate period-related constipation. Insufficient water intake is common, as adequate hydration is necessary to keep stools soft and facilitate passage. When the body is dehydrated, more water is absorbed from the colon, making stools harder.
Inadequate fiber intake also impacts bowel regularity. Fiber adds bulk to stool, which helps it move more easily through the intestines. Reduced physical activity, which some individuals experience during their period, can further slow down digestion, as movement helps stimulate gut motility. Additionally, stress can influence the gut-brain axis, potentially affecting gut motility and contributing to digestive issues like constipation. These factors can compound the hormonal effects, making period-related constipation more pronounced.