If you’ve ever wondered, “Does my IBS affect my period and period symptoms?”—you’re not alone. Many people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) notice changes in their symptoms around the time of their period. But what’s the connection between IBS and menstruation? How do these two interact, and what can you do to manage both more comfortably? In this blog, we’ll explore how IBS affects your period, what symptoms to watch out for, and practical ways to manage both IBS and period pain.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine. It can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
IBS is a chronic condition, meaning that it can last for a long time or occur frequently. While there’s no cure, symptoms can be managed through diet, stress reduction, and medications like Buscopan, which helps relieve IBS cramps.
Many people with IBS notice that their symptoms get worse or change during their period. This is due to the hormonal fluctuations that occur throughout the menstrual cycle. Before and during your period, levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone rise and fall, affecting not just your reproductive organs but your digestive system as well.
This connection between IBS and periods is common. In fact, research from the British Society of Gastroenterology suggests that changes in hormone levels can increase sensitivity in the gut, leading to more severe IBS symptoms around the time of menstruation. These symptoms might include:
For some, IBS can make their period pain worse, leading to more discomfort during menstruation.
Your menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones, and these hormones also play a role in gut function. During your cycle:
This fluctuation is why some people experience different bowel issues, like diarrhea or constipation, at various stages of their cycle. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, these hormone-driven changes can make IBS symptoms worse, particularly in the days leading up to and during your period.
Interestingly, some IBS symptoms can mimic early pregnancy symptoms. Many people with IBS report experiencing bloating, nausea, and changes in bowel habits, which are also common early pregnancy signs. If you’re trying to conceive or think you might be pregnant, it’s worth noting that IBS can sometimes make it hard to tell the difference between early pregnancy symptoms and regular IBS flare-ups.
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to IBS or pregnancy, consider speaking with a healthcare provider for guidance. You can also read more about early pregnancy symptoms and digestive health from the NHS Pregnancy Guide.
IBS doesn’t just make period pain worse—it can also affect the timing and flow of your periods. Some people report:
Many people find that their IBS symptoms change or even flare up once their period ends. This is because of the way your hormone levels shift after menstruation. The gut can become more sensitive, and it may take a few days for your digestive system to return to normal. If you notice a pattern of IBS flare-ups after your period, tracking your symptoms with a period app like Clue or Flo can help you prepare for this cycle.
Managing IBS alongside your period can be tricky, but there are several strategies you can try to ease your symptoms and find relief. Here are some tips for handling IBS and period pain together:
Certain foods can trigger IBS symptoms, and these triggers can become even more potent during your period. Try keeping a food diary to track what you eat and how it affects your symptoms. Common IBS triggers include:
According to NICE Guidelines, avoiding these foods around the time of your period may help reduce both IBS symptoms and period pain.
Buscopan is an over-the-counter medication that’s commonly used to relieve IBS-related cramping. It works by relaxing the muscles in your gut, which can ease pain and bloating. Many people find that Buscopan helps with both IBS period pain and digestive discomfort during menstruation.
Drinking plenty of water can help keep your digestion regular and prevent constipation, which is a common issue during both IBS flare-ups and periods. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, especially during your period.
Gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can help relieve bloating, improve digestion, and reduce period cramps. Moving your body can also lower stress levels, which is important for managing IBS symptoms.
If IBS flare-ups make your period more uncomfortable, using period products that offer extra comfort and protection can make a difference. Period underwear provides excellent absorbency for heavy flow days while also being gentle on your body. Unlike pads or tampons, period underwear is soft, breathable, and perfect for days when you’re dealing with both IBS and period pain.
Check out our collection of period pants to find the best underwear for managing your symptoms.
Many people with IBS have shared their personal stories online about how the condition affects their periods. For example, users on forums like Reddit’s r/ibs discuss the overlap between IBS and periods and how they manage the combination of symptoms. Other blogs and platforms like The Mighty also feature personal experiences from people who live with IBS and deal with period-related flare-ups.
Reading about other people's experiences can help you feel less alone and give you new strategies to try for managing both IBS and period symptoms.
IBS and periods are often closely linked, and managing both at the same time can be challenging. Hormonal changes during your cycle can trigger or worsen IBS symptoms, leading to more pain, bloating, and changes in your bowel habits. However, by understanding how IBS and periods interact, and using helpful management strategies, you can reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life.
For more tips on dealing with period pain and finding the best period products for your needs, check out our period pants, designed to provide comfort and protection for heavy flows and sensitive days.
