What is the Relation Between Gut Health & Menstruation
gut health and periods
When the circulating estrogen is deactivated by the liver, it is passed to the gut for secretion. However, if there are bad bacteria present in there, they will reactivate the hormone, elevating the levels of hormone and creating an imbalance.
The increased amount of estrogen leads to several issues, including PCOD, endometriosis and elevated risks for uterine and breast cancer.
In the premenstrual phase, you may experience constipation. This is due to high levels of progesterone before bleeding starts. The hormone reduces the contraction of muscles that can lead to the build-up of gas. It can also slow down digestion.
On the other hand, the fatty acids released during periods cause intestinal cramps and diarrhoea. Therefore, if your gut health is compromised, your body will experience hormonal imbalance, and your menstrual cycle will be disrupted. Similarly, if you are experiencing issues with your menstrual cycle, chances are that you would also face digestive issues.
Around one in four women of reproductive age experience heavy periods, also known as heavy menstrual bleeding. Periods are a very personal experience and women (and people with uteruses) who have had heavy periods for a long time will often consider this normal, or something to be simply put up with.
A woman with normal periods loses between six to eight teaspoons of blood with each period. On average, bleeding lasts for five days, but a normal period can last for up to eight days. Trying to work out the amount of blood loss can be tricky, but if you have any of these symptoms you probably have heavy periods:
bleeding through clothing
having to change pads and tampons every one to two hours
passing clots larger than a 50 cent coin
avoiding leaving the house on the heaviest days
periods that interfere with your physical, emotional, or social life.
Many women with heavy periods also experience severe period pain. If you are having heavy periods, talking with your doctor can help you choose the right treatment option for you.
5 tips for getting help for heavy periods
Don’t delay. See your GP if you think your periods are heavy or if they’re interfering with your work or personal life
keep a diary of symptoms and track your cycle to help your GP understand your periods. Jot down some notes, fill out a period tracking chart or use a free app to keep track
allow enough time. Make an appointment specifically to discuss your heavy periods and get answers to any questions you have. Consider making a double appointment
don’t be embarrassed to discuss your symptoms or ask your GP questions. This is a common and important problem
go back for review if your bleeding isn’t improving after starting treatment. It might be time to discuss other options.
Menstruation, or period, is normal bleeding that occurs as part of a woman's monthly cycle. Every month, your body prepares for pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, the uterus, or womb, sheds its lining. The menstrual blood is partly blood and partly tissue from inside the uterus.
You must be logged in to post a comment.