The Truth About Diarrhoea During Your Period

What Causes Your Stomach To Act Up During Your Period?

Blame prostaglandins. These are hormone-like chemicals your body releases to help the uterus contract and shed its lining. But when there’s an overload, they can sneak into the bloodstream and head straight for your intestines.

And once they’re there? Things get moving. Fast. Your bowel muscles start contracting more than usual, leading to loose stools, urgent trips to the loo, or full-on period-related diarrhoea. Basically, your body is doing the most - clearing out the uterus and the gut in one go. Efficiency, but make it uncomfortable.

Why Does Digestion Change Even Before Your Period Starts?

It's not just your period days; your gut may start acting up before your flow begins. In the lead-up to menstruation, your hormone levels (especially oestrogen and progesterone) are all over the place. That hormonal rollercoaster affects how your digestive system behaves. Some folks feel bloated and backed up during PMS, then deal with diarrhoea once their period starts. Others have the exact opposite.

Can Existing Gut Conditions Make Period Symptoms Worse?

Living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? Then you probably already know your period can turn things up a notch. People with these conditions often notice their symptoms worsening around their cycle.

This could be due to increased gut sensitivity, inflammation, or stress levels peaking around the same time. For them, diarrhoea during menstruation isn’t a one-off; it’s part of a monthly pattern that can be seriously draining.

Is It Possible That Endometriosis Is the Cause?

If you’re experiencing painful digestion, cramping, and consistent gut issues, like diarrhoea, that show up with your cycle, it could be endometriosis. This condition causes tissue similar to the uterine lining to grow outside the uterus, sometimes even on the bowels. That kind of internal traffic jam can mess with digestion in a big way. If the pain or symptoms feel cyclical and intense, it’s worth checking out.

Which Foods Help And Which Ones Should You Avoid?

Food can either fuel the fire or help put it out. During your period, try to keep things simple. Your gut is extra sensitive, so give it gentle, grounding, and easy-to-digest foods.

• Go for bland, binding options like white rice, toast, bananas, and applesauce.
• Avoid greasy, spicy, or dairy-heavy foods. Your gut will thank you.
• Drink lots of water or herbal teas. Diarrhoea linked to your period can dehydrate you quickly, and staying hydrated helps regulate digestion.

Even a few small tweaks can ease discomfort and give your gut some breathing room.

What Are Some Simple Ways To Ease Digestive Discomfort?

Along with diet, these gentle habits can help calm your system when it’s in full rebellion mode:

• Use a heating pad on your stomach. It relaxes muscles and helps with cramps and intestinal spasms.
• Move your body gently. Think stretching, walking, or some gentle yoga. It keeps digestion moving without overwhelming your body.
• Sip on herbal teas like ginger or peppermint. They’re soothing and anti-inflammatory.
• If your symptoms are intense every month, you could speak to your doctor about hormonal birth control options that reduce prostaglandin levels, easing both cramps and period-related diarrhoea.

When Should You Speak To A Doctor?

If you notice diarrhoea during your period once in a while, it’s often manageable with simple home care. But if it disrupts your daily life or comes with concerning signs - such as blood in your stool, severe fatigue, or unexplained weight loss - it’s essential to speak with a doctor. Keeping a diary to track all your symptoms can also be helpful. Note what you eat, when the symptoms appear, and how you feel physically and emotionally. This type of tracking can give your doctor valuable insights and help guide the next steps.

Is It Normal To Experience Diarrhoea During Your Period?

Let’s be real. No one talks enough about the bathroom side of periods, but it’s a genuine and valid symptom. Diarrhoea during your period might not be cute or convenient, but it is manageable once you understand why it takes place. Support your gut. Listen to your body. And if it gets too loud to ignore, ask for help.