Question: Is constipation a perimenopause symptom?
Answer: It can be. Perimenopause can make us more sensitive to pain. Women can get stiff and achy, and they stop exercising and they stop moving around as much. This can slow down the bowel.
Also, in perimenopause our gut microbiome changes because of the inter-relationship between hormones and the microorganisms in our gut. This can affect how often our bowels move, and how often they move affects how hard or soft stools are.
Perimenopause can also affect how stressed we feel, either because changes in our hormones are directly affecting the nervous system or because changes in the gut are affecting the nerves. We know that stress is also associated with gut issues, whether that's diarrhoea or constipation.
What can help?
Here are a few simple tips to help ease and prevent constipation. Keep the muscles moving. Walking and stretching are great for this. Practice deep breathing. Drink plenty of water. Use bitter herbs like Yarrow before a meal to stimulate digestive secretions. And use a footstool to prop up your legs when you're using the toilet.
More advice for you
Want to learn more about this symptom? Head over to Menopause coach Eileen’s blog ‘Can menopause cause changes in bowel movements?’, where she discusses constipation, as well as diarrhoea in more detail.
For perimenopause symptoms
Looking for a way to support yourself more during perimenopause? Try a perimenopause supplement such as Balance Perimenopause Multi-nutrient drink, which can help support you in 10 different ways during perimenopause.
A.Vogel Balance Perimenopause Supplement | Helps Support You in 10 Ways | One-a-Day | Strawberry Flavoured
£17.99 (77g (14 x 5.5g)) In Stock
Are you Menopausal? Need help with your symptoms? Try our Menopause Symptom Checker.
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You may also find these articles helpful:
5 signs your digestion is struggling during menopause
7 menopause symptoms impacted by constipation
The importance of good gut health in perimenopause and menopause
