Period diarrhea is more common than you think, doctor explains why |

During menstruation, many women experience what is often referred to as period diarrhea. Medical professionals explain that this is primarily due to prostaglandins, which are chemicals released during your cycle. These substances not only induce uterine contractions but also enhance bowel activity, resulting in more frequent and sometimes looser stools.

Periods are mostly reduced to cramps and bleeding, but the body does much more during those days. A recent social media post by Dipshikha Ghosh put words to a symptom many quietly deal with: period diarrhea. The post struck a nerve because it explained a very real problem in clear, honest language, without shame or drama. Here’s what is periods diarrhea and everything that we need to know about it.

What the doctor said online

Dipshikha Ghosh who goes by the username ‘Doctor’ replied to a simple question, “Why do I have diarrhea?”, during a discussion on period symptoms. She explained that period diarrhea is not random or unusual. According to her, it happens because the body releases chemicals called prostaglandins during menstruation. These chemicals help the uterus contract to shed its lining. But they do not limit their action to the uterus. They also affect the intestines and speed up bowel movement. Faster movement means the gut absorbs less water, which leads to loose stools or diarrhea. Her post also highlighted that this is common, normal, and rarely talked about openly.

The science behind prostaglandins

Research shows that prostaglandins play a key role in both menstrual cramps and bowel changes. Studies published in gastroenterology and gynecology journals explain that high prostaglandin levels increase smooth muscle activity. The uterus and intestines both have smooth muscles. When these muscles contract more than usual, cramps increase and stools move faster through the gut. This is why stronger cramps often come with worse digestive symptoms.

Hormones and the gut connection

Just before a period starts, progesterone levels drop. Progesterone usually slows digestion slightly. When it falls, that calming effect on the gut disappears. Research confirms that this hormonal shift can make stools looser. During menstruation, the gut also becomes more sensitive. People who already have irritable bowel syndrome feel this change more strongly. Pain signals and inflammation during periods can further stimulate the gut through the brain-gut connection.

When it is normal and when it is not

Period-related diarrhea usually starts just before or during bleeding and settles once the period ends. Medical guidelines say this pattern is considered normal. But the doctor also gave an important warning. Diarrhea that lasts beyond the period, contains blood, comes with fever, or leads to weight loss should not be ignored. These signs point to problems beyond menstruation and need medical attention.What made the post stand out was its honesty. It reminded readers that the uterus and intestines sit close together and share nerve and chemical pathways. The body does not separate systems as neatly as textbooks do. Talking openly about such symptoms helps people understand their bodies better and seek help without embarrassment.Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It does not replace medical advice. Anyone with severe, unusual, or ongoing symptoms should consult a qualified healthcare professional.