weird question - menstrual cramps

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I was asked by a friend why menstrual cramps (for her) often include loose stools. I have no idea. I tried to google on the physiology of this but have come up short.

any ideas?

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I was asked by a friend why menstrual cramps (for her) often include loose stools. I have no idea. I tried to google on the physiology of this but have come up short.

any ideas?

I think is is hormonal. Our hormone surges affect every part of our body systems, happens to me too sometimes.

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yup, hormones, the shift that is allowing mens., not the cramps themselves....constipation for a few days before is also fairly common...you might get a better/more thorough explanation on the ob/gyn board...good luck

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Specializes in cardiac/critical care/ informatics.

my thouhgt was that the contractions of the uterus stimulated the bowel? That is just my guess. I have wondered the same thing also.

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i may have made this up in my head...but i think it has something to do with progesterone having a laxative effect. darn! now i have to look it up...ill get back to you.

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

During the menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus produces hormones called prostaglandins which stimulate contractions of the uterus. Prostaglandins cause diarrhea in some women.

Etiology: A rapid movement of stool is one of the most common causes of diarrhea. If stool does not stay in the large intestine long enough, evacuation will be watery. Prostaglandins enable this to occur.

Drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen as well as some prescription drugs inhibit prostaglandin production and help to relieve menstrual cramping, including prevention of diarrhea.

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Hmm.. you learn something new everyday. Now you know next time I have my period I am going to have something to think about while I sit on the pot. :lol2:

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During the menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus produces hormones called prostaglandins which stimulates contractions of the uterus. Prostaglandins causes diarrhea in some women.

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My lifelong myster has been solved ;)

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Same here! Every period, since age 14...bowel cramping accompanied by uterine cramping=one lousy couple of days! I try to eat a few bananas...that helps sometimes.

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Hmm.. you learn something new everyday. Now you know next time I have my period I am going to have something to think about while I sit on the pot. :lol2:

LOL i agree!

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