If you’ve noticed your gut symptoms get worse at certain times of the month, you’re not imagining it. Hormones and digestion are deeply connected.
Studies show IBS symptoms worsen for many women during their period. Tracking your cycle alongside symptoms can reveal powerful patterns.
How Hormones Affect Your Gut
- Estrogen affects gut motility and sensitivity
- Progesterone can slow digestion, causing bloating
- Prostaglandins (released during periods) can cause cramping and diarrhea
- Serotonin fluctuations affect both mood and gut function
Common Patterns
- Week before period: Increased bloating, constipation, cravings
- During period: Diarrhea, cramping, increased sensitivity
- Ovulation: Some women notice mid-cycle bloating
- Follicular phase: Often the “best” gut days
What Helps
Knowing when to expect harder days lets you prepare. You might eat more simply during your premenstrual week, plan gentler meals during your period, and be extra kind to yourself when hormones are shifting.
Your body isn’t broken. It’s just speaking a language that changes throughout the month.
