Diarrhea during your period is commonly caused by an increase in prostaglandins, which are hormone-like chemicals your body produces to help your uterus contract and shed its lining. These prostaglandins don't just affect the uterus; they also influence your intestines by increasing muscle contractions and fluid secretion, leading to more frequent and looser bowel movements during menstruation.
Why Prostaglandins Cause Diarrhea
- Prostaglandins cause the uterus to contract to shed the lining, which is the menstrual bleeding.
- These chemicals can enter the bloodstream and make intestinal muscles contract more frequently, causing diarrhea.
- They increase electrolyte and fluid secretion in the intestines, which also softens stools and speeds up bowel movements.
Additional Factors
- Hormonal changes around your period, especially fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen, affect gut motility and can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms including diarrhea.
- Some underlying conditions such as endometriosis may worsen symptoms, as endometrial tissue can sometimes affect the bowel.
If diarrhea during your period is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation. This explains why diarrhea often occurs on or just before the period and links it largely to the body’s natural production of prostaglandins during menstruation.
