Diarrhea during menstruation may be experienced by some women. This condition certainly makes it uncomfortable, especially if accompanied by abdominal pain and menstrual cramps.
However, diarrhea during menstruation is actually a common condition. This condition is closely related to hormonal changes and the body's natural processes during the menstrual cycle.
Quoted from Everyday Health, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, one of the main causes of diarrhea during menstruation is a natural chemical in the body called prostaglandin.
The substance is released during menstruation to help the uterus contract and shed the lining on its walls. However, the effects are not limited to the uterus, but also affect other organs, namely the intestines.
When prostaglandin levels increase, the intestines also contract more actively. This causes bowel movements to be faster than usual, so that feces cannot be absorbed properly and eventually cause diarrhea.
In addition to prostaglandins, hormonal changes during menstruation also play a role in affecting the digestive system. Gastroenterologist, Frank Marrero, said bowel movements can change following hormonal fluctuations.
"Bowel movements can change along with the difference in hormone levels," said Marrero.
Like the change in progesterone hormones, which can have different effects on each woman. This hormone can slow down the digestive system, causing constipation.
However, diarrhea during menstruation can still be overcome so as not to interfere with daily activities. One way is to regulate the diet, namely the consumption of foods rich in fiber such as vegetables, fruits, and grains that help improve stool consistency.
In some cases, antidiarrheal drugs such as loperamide can be used to relieve symptoms. However, the use of these drugs should be consulted with a doctor first.
"If women can predict when symptoms will appear, they can start taking medication before symptoms begin," Marrero concluded.
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