Why does the number of bowel movements increase during menstruation?
Disease description:
Normally having a bowel movement once a day, but during menstruation, having two to three bowel movements per day. Why does the frequency of bowel movements increase during menstruation?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Zhe
An increased frequency of bowel movements during menstruation is generally caused by pelvic congestion. During and around the menstrual period, estrogen levels in the body are relatively low. The drop in hormone levels leads to pelvic congestion. This congestion stimulates the colon, increasing its motility and causing overactivity of the entire digestive system, resulting in more frequent bowel movements. Besides increased bowel movements, symptoms such as hunger, increased appetite, and mild diarrhea may also occur during menstruation.
