1. Elia
    2. >
  2. Diarrhoea and periods : what are the causes and solutions?

Diarrhoea and periods : what are the causes and solutions?

lWith periods approaching, many women suffer from stomach upsets, with an estimated 60% of all women suffering from these ailments. But the symptoms that are least talked about, despite the fact that many women suffer from them, are digestive problems, including diarrhoea.


Contents

 

Is it normal to have diarrhea during her periods

Yes, an estimated 73% of women have experienced digestive problems during their digestive problems during their periods or during their PMS. It's a phenomenon to which many women are prone, even if few talk about it. Diarrhea is often associated with stomach ache, nausea, bloating and chronic fatigue.

 

Diarrhea and periods : the role of prostaglandins

If many women suffer from diarrhoea during their periods, it's because of prostaglandins: these hormones, secreted by the endometrium at the time of periods, facilitate the expulsion of the endometrium by creating contractions. This is also the source of menstrual pain and cramps.

But prostaglandins, which pass through the bloodstream, also spread outside the uterus and sometimes reach the digestive tract, leading to episodes of diarrhea.

Our 5 tips for treating diarrhea periods !

Even if digestive problems during periods, nausea and other premenstrual symptoms are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about s, they're still not very pleasant. Here are a few tips to help you get through this time of the month.

1. Eat a simple diet rich in starchy foods and vegetables

A basic tip for improving intestinal transit, especially during menstruation, is to adapt your diet and eating habits. To limit episodes of diarrhoea, it is highly recommended to give priority to starchy foods such as rice (white or wholemeal) and vegetables.

2. Avoid foods rich in arachidonic or linoleic acid

It's advisable to limit fatty foods in the run-up to periods. In fact, since prostaglandins are responsible for the onset of diarrhoea, it's worth looking into their origin: prostaglandins are made from specific fats: arachidonic acid and linoleic acid. These fatty acids are generally considered to be good for the body. They belong to the omega-6 family. 

In fact, these acids play vital roles in the proper functioning of the brain, in the fight against cardiovascular disease and in strengthening the immune system. However, if consumed in excessive quantities before periods, they can lead to an overproduction of prostaglandins. Overproduction of prostaglandins can lead to worsening menstrual pain and digestive problems.

3. Keeping active to promote transit

Even if, as we approach periods, we tend to feel more tired than usual, sport is a good way of regulating transit. In fact, when you exercise during your periodsyou accelerate blood circulation and thus muscle oxygenation. 

Sport really helps to reduce menstrual pain and menstrual crampswhether in the uterus or the intestines. Of course, the aim is absolutely not to tire you out and make you feel bad: just listen to yourself!

4. Drink vegetable broths to s'hydrate

When you're prone to diarrhea, you need to watch out for dehydration! At this point in your cycle, you lose a lot of water! Remember to stay sufficiently hydrated, i.e. drink enough water. Since it's advisable to eat vegetables during and before periods, you can opt for vegetable soups and broths: they'll keep you hydrated and provide you with the nutrients you need.

5. Use essential oils

The virtues of essential oils for relieving to relieve menstrual pain.. But did you know that certain essential oils can also relieve episodes of diarrhea? This is the case for two of them:

  • Ceylon cinnamon essential oil: this oil has anti-infectious properties, making it a powerful remedy for intestinal infections, gastroenteritis and tourista. As soon as you experience the first symptom of diarrhea, take a drop of Ceylon cinnamon essential oil. You can take it on a piece of bread, with a spoonful of honey, etc. The dosage should be taken for 5 to 7 days, up to 4 times a day;
  • The second essential oil of interest for diarrhea is oregano essential oil. This oil has anti-infectious and antibacterial properties, which can help relieve digestive disorders. As for dosage: as with Ceylon cinnamon essential oil, you can take it for 5 to 7 days, up to 4 times a day.

How are diarrhea and endometriosis linked?

Although, as mentioned above, diarrhea is a common phenomenon in women during periods, it can also be a symptom of endometriosis.

L'endometriosis is a very common gynaecological disease, affecting one in 10 women. It is characterized by the development of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. This tissue is influenced by hormones during the monthly cycle. The main symptoms of endometriosis are pelvic pain and dyspareunia (pain during intercourse).

But diarrhea can also be a symptom of symptom of endometriosis. In fact, when endometriosis develops in areas such as the intestines, colon or rectum, it can cause digestive disorders, in particular alternating diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms are particularly aggravated during the periods period. Endometriosis can also lead to painful bowel movements, and in some cases to the presence of blood in the stool.

If you are prone to severe menstrual pain and often have digestive problems at lor during periods, consult your doctor.

The diagnosis of endometriosis is often lengthy, as the symptoms of endometriosis differ from woman to woman. Don't hesitate to talk to your doctor, midwife or gynecologist.

What to do if diarrhoea is chronic with each period?

If your periods symptoms automatically lead to episodes of diarrhoea, you can use our tips detailed above in l. But if your symptoms persist and make your daily life more difficult, consult your doctor: he or she will be able to prescribe a suitable treatment. 


The FAQ for diarrhoea during periods

Can periods cause diarrhoea?

It's not uncommon to experience diarrhea when having periods. This is due to the production of prostaglandins, the hormones that create contractions to evacuate the endometrium.

How to treat diarrhea during periods ?

There are many ways to relieve diarrhea during periods : by changing your diet, by using essential oils, or by exercising! It's up to you to find out which method suits you best. If premenstrual syndrome persists and is too disabling to cope with on a daily basis, consult a specialist.

 

You may also like :