why does my period smell like poop why does my period smell like poop

While the particular cause of the overgrowth isnt known, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. Although theres no single cure for period poops, if you follow these simple steps you could reduce the likelihood of digestive trouble: To avoid digestive troubles during your period, try to eat clean as much as possible. If you don't want to wait, you can talk to your doctor about a prescription for metronidazole, an antibiotic treatment for BV. Dr. Greves recommends increasing your fiber intake a few days before your period starts to avoid constipation. A few things can cause pain when you poop while on your period, including: constipation, which can make stool hard and painful to pass. During each menstrual cycle, the body goes through many hormonal shifts. You may lose weight when you poop, and experience other symptoms like weakness and fatigue. If you find that certain foods cause foul-smelling gas or loose, smelly poop, you might have an underlying intolerance. Other options include eating yogurt with active cultures or popping a probiotic. What Causes Yellow Discharge Before Your Period? Its typical for the vagina to contain bacteria, though the amount can vary. Carabotti, M., Scirocco, A., Maselli, M.A. 2023 Greatist a Red Ventures Company. ], Why Does My Poop Smell Like Popcorn? Ibuprofen, ZzzQuil, and prenatal vitamins are also great influencers. In turn, this may help reduce cramps, nausea, and pain associated with bowel movements.If youre thinking about taking the pill to help with your digestion problems, make sure you consult a doctor first. She says if you notice any discharge at all around your rectum, this is likely the case. Your doctor, in some cases, may advise you to start the contraceptive pill. You have had prolonged labor with some blood vessels squeezed by the babys head and some areas of the vagina have died and filled in with a communication to the bowel (a fistula). The first step is always figuring out the underlying source and treating that," Dr. Shirazian says. Once treatment begins, the bacteria slowly begins to balance out. Once again, the main culprit is prostaglandins. Theres no way around it. Copyright 2022 Mindset Health Pty Ltd ABN 11 617 368 957, Period Poops: What Are They & How to Stop Them, the cells in your uterus begin to release prostaglandins. (2018). Stress can also affect a persons bowel movements, causing constipation or diarrhea. isnt helped by changes in diet and habits. Tagliaferri, V., Romualdi, D., Scarinci, E., Cicco, S.D., Florio, C.D., Immediata, V., Tropea, A., Santarsiero, C.M., Lanzone, A. and Apa, R., 2018. Once more, your hormones are to blame. and De Vries, C.S., 2008. There could be an easy solution, but there could be something more serious happening. The effect of systemic ibuprofen on gingival inflammation in humans. This smell indicates that it is time to change the pad or tampon to control the odor. Download your free guide to managing IBS with hypnotherapy, Manage IBS symptoms without diets or drugs. In this article, we look at possible reasons why periods can affect bowel movements and some tips for managing the symptoms. Then theres having menstrual cramps, which is painful as it is, and having cramps on top of either having diarrhea or constipation is even worse. If it seems like your period wont stop, there are several causes (like a new IUD or endometriosis) that could be to blame. The smell of period poop is due in part by the change in womens eating habits, normally the week before their period. Constipation and defecation problems. If this happens and your period comes, the bacteria will have extra food (blood) to eat and multiply! The effects of exercise upon symptoms and quality of life in patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled trial. Another possibility is that you're taking metal supplements, which can also lead to the production of metal-based smells. "Sometimes, there's some damage done to the anus or the muscles in the region that might cause some leakage and make you think that the smell is coming from your vagina because gravity pulls it that direction every time you stand." Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. If this happens and your period comes, the bacteria will have extra food (blood) to eat and multiply! Being mindful of what you eat, before and during your period, can help. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. If you have pus-like, green or frothy discharge, see your doctor right away, Dr. Shirazian says. Evia uses gut-brain hypnotherapy to help you manage menopausal hot flashes and night sweats without drugs. These conditions may also flare up during your period. 2023 BDG Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Fishy "As blood exits the vagina, especially if there's a lot of bleeding, it can change the pH of the vagina," Dr. Shirazian explains. Outkast said it best. If you are concerned that you may have forgotten to remove a tampon, try to feel for the strings at the opening of your vagina. Changes in mood and stress levels are common during your period. However, if your diarrhea is bloody, get checked out by a healthcare provider. Some women report that their period smells like death, though this isnt necessarily a cause for concern. Bacteria in the vagina are normal, though the amount can differ. Global prevalence of and risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome: a meta-analysis. This is most likely related to the vaginal substance itself, but acidity and bacteria can also play a role. The most likely culprit for constipation is your fluctuating hormones. We avoid using tertiary references. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. The resulting "rotten" smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldn't be strong enough for others to detect. Take the quiz and find out if you can manage your flare-ups by fixing the miscommunication between your gut and brain, Created by Dr Simone Peters from Monash University. Its partially caused by changing levels of hormones such as prostaglandins and progesterone. Or you might have a hemorrhoid a swollen blood vessel that burst or fell off while you were pooping. If you think you might have a more serious problem, dont be afraid to ask for help from a professional. Eating certain foods can increase the frequency of bowel movements and relieve constipation. Understand the science behind hypnotherapy and how it works. The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. 2. (If it's tough to get to your gyno, there are online sexual health companies, such as Wisp, where you can chat with a doc about your symptoms, see if the Rx is a good option for you and then get them shipped to your home.). In other words, this is a completely normal smell. [SEE HERE! Vaginosis is a result of an overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. A womans body goes through so many changes during her menstrual cycle and hormones play a part in changing the frequency and consistency of bowel movements. These include: If youre struggling with frequent bathroom trips every month, there are things you can do to reduce your symptoms. Your vagina is a precious thing that can serve as an escape route for babies and give you orgasms; don't mess with the magic talk to an expert. But theyre far from rare: In fact, one small study found that most women have gastrointestinal issues, particularly abdominal pain and diarrhea, before or during their periods. The increased acid and bacteria in your vagina is why your period blood smells sweet. If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the Because you may notice that, like your vagina, your period has an odor. Although you wont find this term in a medical dictionary, its a common way to describe changes in your bowel movements around the time of your period. Or perhaps the other way around? The resulting rotten odor from bacteria mixed with the menstrual flow should not be strong enough to detect others. If your symptoms are particularly severe, you should make an appointment with your doctor. Mindset Health only uses high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed research, to support our articles. However, the smell should not be anything like rotten meat and if that happens, youd need to see a gynecologist. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Some vaginal bacteria can naturally have a sweet smell, according to Women's Medical Associates of Nashville. However, if the symptom persists, consult your doctor to identify the possible cause. It is normal for blood to smell after D and C. Just wait it out, the smell will eventually tamper off. Any old, black, dark, or deep red blood should be discussed with GP. And you know what? Just something worth checking. Viral or bacterial infections and parasitic infections can affect digestion and cause foul-smelling stool or . When youve got the big D, over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) can help. Bowel movement changes during menstruation can include constipation, diarrhea, or more frequent bowel movements. As for that uniquely rank smell? And dont get us started on period farts. You might find that you do fine with them, but they may also throw off your vagina's pH and increase the odds of a yeast infection, she says. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. If youre concerned that you may have forgotten to remove a tampon, try to feel at the opening of your vagina for the strings. Best food forward: Are algae the future of sustainable nutrition? Understand our mission, read our manifesto, meet the team and join us. 2. So, if you leave a tampon in for longer than recommended, the foul smell is dead blood cells and bacterial growth. Foul-smelling stools have an unusually strong, putrid smell. I would suggest carrying a small baggie with flushable wipes and using one whenever you use the bathroom. 1. Does pain vary across the menstrual cycle? You shouldnt douche either, as the process can get rid of healthy vaginal bacteria and lead to infection. Wald A. Heres how you can clean up properly after pooping during your period: Now you know that period poop probs are normal. Some people poop multiple times every day, others only a few times a week. Why does my period blood smell like poop? and Chang, L., 2009. Blanchard, E.B., Lackner, J.M., Jaccard, J., Rowell, D., Carosella, A.M., Powell, C., Sanders, K., Krasner, S. and Kuhn, E., 2008. One of these involves bloating, Menstrual cramps are a natural occurrence, but severe cramps can affect a person's quality of life. All rights reserved. "As blood exits the vagina, especially if there's a lot of bleeding, it can change the pH of the vagina," Dr. Shirazian explains. Quiz: Could hypnosis help you quit smoking? Many people notice that their bowel habits change predictably throughout their monthly menstrual cycle. Use separate wet wipes to clean your vagina, your booty, and anywhere else you might have period blood or poop. She emphasizes that this issue does not mean you arent taking care of yourself or that you necessarily have bad hygiene, noting that it's just that the vagina is literally right next door to the rectum very close and the bacteria can give the odor. Prostaglandins are also involved in many other PMS symptoms, including headaches. Daley, A.J., Grimmett, C., Roberts, L., Wilson, S., Fatek, M., Roalfe, A. and Singh, S., 2008. This disrupts your bacteria or yeast balance and can cause infections. Your doctor can also identify or rule out more serious conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Bacterial vaginosis: CDC fact sheet. and Dash, B.H., 1992. Consult your doctor if your period stinks, and you have any unusual symptoms. If an egg is not fertilized and implanted, that lining is released," Taraneh Shirazian, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn with NYU Langone, tells LIVESTRONG.com. The resulting rotten smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldnt be strong enough for others to detect. Read evidence-based articles, guides, health resources and more. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. Thats your period. The color can vary based on what you eat, but you might also notice your poop gets reddish around your period. ], Why Does My Poop Smell Like Cow Manure? Poor hygiene. [online] Available at: [Accessed 20 August 2020]. They cause the muscle contractions that help your uterus shed its lining during your period. Learn more about some of the common odors associated with periods, and which symptoms warrant a doctors visit. Chances are if you smell yourself, others are smelling the odor too. In fact, I'm surprised it hasn't happened to me yet." Its as simple, and as complicated, as that. Here are some period problems that are worth discussing with a medical expert. Experiencing bloating? Our good friends prostaglandins occasionally decide to start wilding, causing you diarrhea. The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. The same is true for the consistency of your poop it may be more solid at some times than at others. "Bacterial vaginosis. Why does my period blood smell like poop? Period Poop: Because Cramps, Cravings, and Crying Aren't Big Enough Pains in the Butt Periods and digestion Period poop symptoms Sanitary care and cleanup When to see a doctor No, it's not. This can result in a fishy smell. At the end of it, you shouldnt notice any unusual smells or other symptoms during your period. Some styles can hold several tampon's worth of blood, but yours may need to be changed sooner. Exercise during a period can improve mood, reduce pain, and provide overall health benefits. Progesterone helps thicken the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg may develop, but this hormone can have other effects on the body too. What gives? Consider alternatives to tampons, such as a menstrual cup (or even a pad). (2016). Xiao, Z.L., Pricolo, V., Biancani, P. and Behar, J., 2005. Coating materials like sorbitol (an indigestible sugar) can ferment and make your poop smell terrible. Pooping is uncomfortable while on your period. "A common one is lactose, but people can . Your poop may also be smaller or harder than usual. . Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising should help to relieve symptoms. Fix the miscommunication between your gut and brain, Manage IBS with gut-directed hypnotherapy, Full access to our apps, white papers, and more, Free discovery call with our health specialists. People assigned male at birth often have no symptoms, but those assigned female can have a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge. If things are particularly messy, hop in the shower and rinse off (external parts only no need to clean inside your va-jay-jay). Eat a high-fiber diet to reduce constipation. vaginal discharge outside of menstrual bleeding. Its also a good idea to cut back on inflammatory foods and drinks like coffee during this time. "I've seen retained tampons that can cause a really foul smell because someone has forgotten to take them out," Dr. Shirazian says. If youre dealing with constipation, straining to poop can be painful. This over-the-counter medication may also help to control inflammation in the uterus and the bowels to reduce pain. They basically double-team on slowing down your digestion and scaring away your poop. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? Heres, Vulvar pain is a common side effect of menstruation, but it could also be a sign of a medical condition. V-Steams 101: What is Vaginal Steaming and How Does it Work. Experts say disruptions to a woman's menstrual cycle from the COVID-19 vaccine are usually temporary and minor. Changes in bowel habits are often temporary and harmless. This will help limit the growth of bacteria and you should feel fresher throughout the day. This is because high levels of progesterone can cause digested materials to travel more slowly through your system. If youre worried about your poop suddenly smelling worse during your period, try and avoid overeating and cut out refined sugars and processed foods.. Once again, this is due to the magic of hormones! This shift in pattern is because the bowel is affected by period-related hormone changes. Deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays, arent recommended because of the possibility of irritation. Furthermore, people with IBD are more likely to experience other PMS symptoms, such as headaches or menstrual pain.