Why do I often experience indigestion during menstruation?

Diarrhea is one of the most frequently complained of digestive disorders during menstruation. A specialist in internal medicine and digestive system from the Cleveland Clinic in the United States, dr. Jamile Wakim Fleming said that 50 percent of women experience some indigestion when menstruation arrives or even before. The most frequently complained of are diarrhea, constipation, and stomach upset. So, why menstruation can cause disturbances in the digestive system? Find out the answer below.

Why menstruation can cause indigestion?

Apart from cramps and abdominal pain, diarrhea is a condition that is often complained of during menstruation. This is associated with prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause the uterus to continue to contract. Well, prostaglandins will also trigger contractions in the intestine.

Production of prostaglandins in the body generally increases nearing menstruation, so that the uterus can more effectively push blood out. Unfortunately, prostaglandins can also trigger diarrhea, which causes you to commute to the bathroom more often.

Apart from diarrhea, prostaglandins can also cause other pain associated with dysmenorrhea (pain during menstruation). Prostaglandin-induced cramps and diarrhea usually occur in the first three days of your period.

Another cause is the hormone progesterone. Increased levels of progesterone in the body before menstruation can affect the gastrointestinal system by speeding up or slowing down digestion. This is because bowel movements can change with different hormone levels. Therefore, not only diarrhea is a complaint but also constipation or constipation can be quite a disturbing menstrual effect.

Dr. Christine Greves, an obstetrician at the Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology in Orlando Health, Florida says that women who have endometriosis are more at risk of developing constipation. Diarrhea, constipation, stomach upset, and nausea can also occur a week before menstruation comes.

How to deal with indigestion during menstruation?

1. Take medicine for diarrhea

If your period is regular, try taking anti-diarrheal medications when PMS symptoms such as diarrhea appear (even if your period hasn't arrived). Remember, the use of drugs should only be consumed when you experience symptoms of diarrhea that are quite severe and frequent. If the diarrhea occurs only occasionally and does not interfere with your activities, then you do not need to take any type of medication.

2. Drink lots of water

Try to maintain body fluid balance by drinking lots of water. In addition, consume foods high in fiber to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of diarrhea during menstruation. However, if you are constipated, avoid high-fiber foods, as they can make your stool denser and harder to pass.

3. Consume probiotics

To overcome digestive disorders during menstruation, consuming foods and drinks that contain probiotics such as yogurt can be a solution. The good bacteria contained in probiotics can help balance excessive intestinal contractions that cause diarrhea and constipation.

4. Increase your intake of vitamin B6 or calcium (if recommended by your doctor)

Taking vitamin B6 or calcium supplements when PMS occurs can also reduce indigestion during menstruation. In addition, you can also take ibuprofen before your period arrives. This is intended to treat a variety of PMS symptoms, including menstrual pain.

However, any drugs or supplements that you will consume must first consult your doctor. In addition, if the diarrhea and constipation that occurs is accompanied by bloody bowel movements and other symptoms, you may have certain diseases that are more serious. Immediately see a doctor to get the right diagnosis and treatment.