Constipation is a relatively common symptom that occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This phase precedes menstruation, which is when you get your period and start bleeding from the uterus.
Approximately 7 in 10 people experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like constipation, bloating, and nausea in the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle.
You may find that you’re constipated before some periods and not others. Either way, it’s normal to experience this and other digestive issues before or after your period.
Researchers haven’t identified the exact cause of constipation during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. However, it likely occurs due to hormonal changes that affect both your uterus and GI tract.
Your menstrual cycle is the result of continued adjustments in your body’s estrogen and progesterone levels. Not only do these hormones affect when you ovulate, but they can also impact your digestive habits.
According to a 2021 review, higher progesterone levels during the luteal phase may affect gastric motility, the process by which food is processed and digested in the GI tract.
This may be due to the hormone’s effects on colonic 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) activity, a molecule that helps regulate the contraction and relaxation of the muscles that move food through the GI tract.
The review authors also note that higher estrogen levels during the luteal phase may also lead to constipation due to its effects on gastric motility.
However, it’s important to note that some studies found no effects of fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen on constipation and other GI symptoms.
You may experience a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms before your period, which are often referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some symptoms
- headaches
- nausea
- diarrhea
- abdominal bloating, cramps, and pain
- swollen, sore, and tender breasts
- fatigue
- changes in appetite, such as increased food cravings
- weight gain
- back pain
- rapid mood changes
- low mood, which may lead to sudden tearfulness or crying
- anxiety, stress, and irritability
Several home remedies, lifestyle changes, and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help relieve symptoms of constipation and PMS before your period. Some of these include:
- eating high fiber foods, such as pears, broccoli, legumes, and whole grains
- drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- exercising regularly
- always using the bathroom when you need to go
- taking fiber supplements, such as psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl)
- taking OTC medications, such as laxatives and stool softeners
If your constipation symptoms are painful or affecting your well-being, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can assess your symptoms, current lifestyle, and dietary habits to help develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
This may include prescription medications specifically to help manage constipation, such as linaclotide, plecanatide, and lubiprostone. They may also recommend oral contraception to help regulate hormones that may be causing your symptoms.