Many women experience a urge to defecate during their period, and some even experience diarrhea. Is this normal during menstruation? What are the causes? What should be done if the diarrhea is severe?
We have invited Dr. Li Ye, Chief Physician of the Department of Gynecology at Beijing Hospital , to explain this issue in detail from a professional perspective.
Why do people get diarrhea? Uterine contractions stimulate the intestines.
First of all, to be frank, diarrhea during menstruation is normal and nothing to worry about. However, if the situation is severe, such as if you already have menstrual cramps and experience diarrhea on the first day of your period, causing you to go to the toilet more than ten times a day and resulting in serious discomfort, you must see a doctor immediately.
During menstruation, a woman's pelvic cavity is constantly congested, which can lead to poor blood circulation in the pelvic floor. Furthermore, it's important to know that the uterus doesn't sit alone in the pelvic cavity; it's surrounded by various intestinal tracts. Behind the uterus is the rectum. During menstruation, the uterus contracts, which stimulates the surrounding intestines and, consequently, the rectum. This combination of pelvic congestion and uterine contractions can naturally cause intermittent abdominal pain and even diarrhea. This sensation is particularly pronounced in women with a retroverted uterus.
In short, if it's mild, normal diarrhea that doesn't interfere with your quality of life, there's no need to worry too much; most women experience this to some extent during their menstrual period. Remember, maintaining a positive mood is very important during your period.
How to relieve diarrhea: Short-acting oral contraceptives
What if some people simply don't like this feeling and want to alleviate it? Li Ye suggests taking short-acting oral contraceptives. "Take them after your period starts; this should help alleviate diarrhea next time."
Li Ye also mentioned that oral short-acting contraceptives have a very high safety profile, reaching 99%, and will not affect health. Besides relieving diarrhea during menstruation, women who require contraception, have heavy menstrual flow, or severe dysmenorrhea can take them cyclically as prescribed by their doctor, provided there are no contraindications. "However, it's best to consult a specialist at a reputable hospital for the first two times, as there are several types of contraceptives, and some people may react to certain medications. A doctor needs to assess and observe the patient. After two months of use to allow the body to adapt, you can then purchase the medication yourself."
