Why do I have diarrhea during my menstrual period?

Generally, diarrhea during menstruation may be caused by various factors including prostaglandin effects, hormonal changes, gastrointestinal dysfunction, acute gastroenteritis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Prostaglandin Effects

During menstruation, the endometrium releases large amounts of prostaglandins, which promote uterine contractions to shed the lining. These prostaglandins may also stimulate the intestines, leading to diarrhea. Symptoms can often be relieved through adequate rest and maintaining proper fluid intake.

2. Hormonal Changes

Throughout the menstrual cycle, levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate cyclically. Before menstruation begins, the decline in these hormone levels may affect normal intestinal function, increasing intestinal motility and resulting in diarrhea. Maintaining healthy eating habits and avoiding greasy or spicy foods is advised.

3. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction

Gastrointestinal dysfunction is primarily triggered by dietary and psychological factors. During menstruation, hormonal fluctuations and pelvic congestion may disrupt gastrointestinal function, leading to diarrhea. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. Patients are advised to take medications such as atropine sulfate tablets, belladonna extract tablets, or domperidone tablets under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

4. Acute Gastroenteritis

Acute gastroenteritis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. During menstruation, women's immune systems may be relatively weakened. Consuming contaminated food or exposure to pathogens during this time may lead to acute gastroenteritis and result in diarrhea, often accompanied by fever and vomiting. Patients may take medications such as compound berberine tablets, teprenone capsules, or rebamipide tablets as directed by a physician.

5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is caused by bacterial infection. During menstruation, with endometrial shedding and slight opening of the cervical os, bacteria may more easily ascend and infect the pelvic organs, exacerbating inflammation. Inflammatory chemicals produced during this process may irritate the intestines and cause diarrhea. Symptoms may also include lower abdominal pain and pain during intercourse. Patients may use medications such as levofloxacin tablets, azithromycin tablets, or cefixime tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

In addition, it is important to maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), follow a light diet, and ensure sufficient rest.