Is Your Constipation Related to Your Monthly Cycle?

If you’re frustrated with the symptoms that come along with your monthly menstrual cycle, it can be comforting to know that you’re not alone. Commiserating with girlfriends has a way of taking the edge off the pain. But one commonly experienced but not commonly discussed symptom of the monthly menstrual cycle is constipation—and the pain, swelling, and uncomfortable bloating that tends to come with it. Part of this is timing. Period-related constipation usually occurs in the second half of your cycle and is usually brought on by an increase in the hormone progesterone, which increases in the second half of the cycle to help prepare the uterine lining so it will be ready for implantation of a fertilized egg. Constipation can make your every activity a chore and your entire day an uncomfortable experience. However, there are ways to avoid this uncomfortable condition, and they can be as simple as a change in diet, an increase in exercise, or simply taking special care to ensure that you are consistently hydrated. Read more…