HomeAnswersMedical GastroenterologydiarrheaAm I having loose stools due to periods?

Can periods cause loose stools?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At May 31, 2020
Reviewed AtDecember 18, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Loose stools that are yellowish in color. Only minor abdominal cramping that feels like a period cramp (due to having period for the past two days). Taking oral contraceptive. Abdominal cramping is not continous. Only been occuring for 24 hours.

Answered by Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I need to know whether the loose stools are really having organic cause or just secondary to functional changes occuring with time of periods. Loose stools are said when stool volume is more than 200 ml in a day, semisolid to liquid in consistency.

Mild abdominal cramping is common when one approaching menstruation, a condition is called premenstrual syndrome which is common condition with various symptoms, not necessarily related to female genital tract. But accompany with emotional and physiologic changes in to abdomen, skin, body blood circulation.

You just make sure, that you take home made well cooked diet. Otherwise no need of any investigation or medicine for now. Take oral rehydration solution (ORS) in one liter of water, and take 200 ml to 300 ml every time you have loose stools. I could have helped you much if you have provided some more information about that pain and quantity of stools. Well, onset for 24 hours, mild cramping, does not show any alarming symptoms. So do not worry. You can take a gynecologist opinion on this. Take care, have a good day.

The Probable causes

Nonspecific abdominal cramp and loose stools? Food poisoning? Premenstrual syndrome?

Regarding follow up

Follow up with gynecologist

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ajeet Kumar
Dr. Ajeet Kumar

Medical Gastroenterology

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