why do i get diarrhea on my period

Diarrhea during your period is commonly caused by an increase in prostaglandins, natural chemical messengers produced by your body just before and during menstruation. Prostaglandins cause the uterus to contract in order to shed its lining, but they also affect the smooth muscles in the intestines, increasing bowel contractions and fluid secretion. This results in more frequent, loose, or watery stools. Additionally, prostaglandins reduce the intestine’s absorption of food, further contributing to diarrhea. This is a normal symptom for many people during their period, although severe or persistent symptoms could indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis.