Why do I get diarrhoea at the start of my menstrual cycle, and how can I relief it?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

Menstruation occurs when an ovum failed to get fertilised. This shedding of the womb's inner lining is related to the release of a special class of hormones known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause the smooth muscles of the womb to contract which help to shear off its inner lining. This contraction is also the reason for the painful menstrual cramps that most of us are familiar with.

When there is an excessive release of these hormones during menstruation, the smooth muscle in the intestines may respond in a similar manner resulting in more frequent stools or diarrhoea. For some individuals, the stress encountered during menstruation can aggravate their underlying IBS resulting in looses stools.

The treatment for this condition depends on its severity and the frequency of the loose stools. Simple anti-cramps medicine and medicine commonly use for diarrhoea may work perfectly. In severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be required to treat both the menstrual cramps and loose stools.

Do note that hormonal cause of looses stools should not come with blood in the stools. Such finding should prompt you to seek medical help soonest possible.

- Dr Quan

Similar Questions

What could be the cause of black stools and dull ache at my pelvic area?

Black tarry and unformed stool may represent the passage of altered blood - also known as melena. The most common cause of melena is internal bleeding from peptic ulcers, usually originating from a point higher up in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract like the stomach or duodenum. Risk factors for peptic ulcer disease include presence of Helicobacter pylori (a bacteria found in the stomach) and consumption of certain medications such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

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Answered By

Human

How do I know if I suffered a seizure when I recently passed out?

It sounds like you suffered an attack of vasogagal syncope, which is a largely benign overreaction of the nervous system to certain stimuli. Ie your IBS symptoms resulted in your fainting episode. Seizures are generally determined when witnessed, although certain telltale signs (such as loss of urinary or bowel continence) might suggest a possible seizure. There are, however, many types of Seizures and it is difficult to comment on without further information. If this occurs frequently it might be best to be examined properly by a medical physician.

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Human

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