Why You Might Be Pooping So Much On Your Periods? Know The Reason

Period poop Whenever there is talk of periods, pain and cramps get the most attention. However, there are some other physical manifestations before and around your menses that nobody talks about. Yes, we are talking about period poops. Like all the changes that accompany our menstrual phase, our bowel movements also see a prominent change. It is very common to experience constipation or diarrhoea before and during the blood flow. It might also be interesting to observe that periods not only change the texture of fecal matter but also alters the frequency at which one might visit a loo.Prostaglandins inducing contractions The menstrual phase of the reproductive cycle is associated with the body shedding the uterus lining out of the body. The process slightly mimics the pregnancy contractions, however not as powerful. Certain hormones called prostaglandins are released that induce mild intestinal contractions. This can result in increased bowel movement and frequent rushing to poop.Constipation before menses Right before the menstrual phase, our body is high on progesterone, the home-making hormone that facilitates pregnancy. However, when pregnancy doesn’t happen, there is a drop in hormone levels. Studies have shown that progesterone can affect bowel movement. It is known to cause constipation. Hence, right before the onset of menses, a woman might experience constipation followed by loose stool when suddenly the hormone levels drop.Dramatic bowel changes Most bowel movement changes are hormone directed during menses. Hence, at this time intestinal problems independent of hormones can be confused with PMS symptoms. Many women who already suffer from conditions like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) can experience more dramatic bowel changes.Cramps or pooping urge? Sometimes uterine contractions and bowel contractions can feel very alike. Since both are initiated by prostaglandins, sometimes a woman can get confused if she is having cramps or if is it the bowel contraction, urging her to poop.