Period blood may smell metallic due to the presence of blood and iron. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. National Library of Medicines list No, its not your imagination: Your poop and pooping schedule can change during your period. If you cant feel them, schedule a vaginal exam with your doctor to confirm. Changes in bowel movements during your period are normal, but you should seek medical advice if you experience the following: Your doctor can help you find a diagnosis and provide treatment options. This is because what happens in your brain can affect what happens in your gut. 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. Experiencing constipation while on your period is also normal for many women who have lower levels of prostaglandins and higher levels of progesterone. And for some people, period diarrhea interrupts their lives. A randomized trial of yoga for adolescents with irritable bowel syndrome. Iacovides, S., Avidon, I. and Baker, F.C., 2015. Dysmenorrhoea and prostaglandins: pharmacological and therapeutic considerations. If you cant feel them, see your doctor for a vaginal exam to confirm. You can try acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) for overall pain and bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) or antacids for digestive pain. (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.). This shift in pattern is because the bowel is affected by period-related hormone changes. Yoga for anxiety: a systematic review of the research evidence. 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. nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/menstruation/conditioninfo, kidshealth.org/en/teens/menstruation.html, cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm, kidshealth.org/en/teens/feminine-hygiene.html, mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-odor/basics/definition/SYM-20050664, fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/InVitroDiagnostics/HomeUseTests/ucm126074.htm, girlshealth.gov/body/health_help/gynecologist.html. In this article, we look at possible reasons why periods can affect bowel movements and some tips for managing the symptoms. Period poops can be caused by two hormones called prostaglandins and progesterone. "There is something called a retrovaginal fistula, which is an opening that forms between the rectum and the vagina, that can cause your vagina to smell like feces. Yup, you have your changing hormones to thank for all those side effects. The following techniques may help you naturally eliminate unusual vaginal odors: The following reasons cause a smelly tampon: A smelly tampon should be thrown out immediately. There are a few possible reasons why your period blood might smell like dog poop. Dr. Shirazian adds that this is often "self-limiting," meaning it will go away on its own without any particular treatment. We know you like to think your shit doesnt stink, but this right here is next level. "No matter what, this is not an issue you can self-diagnose or self-treat. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection. Purchase breathable cotton underwear here. People dont talk about poop-related side effects as much as, say, chocolate cravings. Theres no way around it. Most of the time, that's actually A-OK. 2. In more extreme cases, ibuprofen or taking the contraceptive pill should help to reduce symptoms. She adds that this problem can only be fixed surgically, and healing is not a fun process. //www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3901893/https: http://ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/atvbaha.110.207449, https://labtestsonline.org/tests/progesterone, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550857909000230?casa_token=yDLdiAopEt8AAAAA:0P7-hurKxdgFFFGgaZ8shC29izRrHFCBzlTEBTTnWhbc64Y4RtPLBVtH8B3JtGbhnuBYYjAX, https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/BF01308037.pdf, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0016508504021894?casa_token=M-2Ynf5anFoAAAAA:IhKBcOmHNNmiGVXGHH89c97e_ey_mVDclZoCQLZ6C4I4h54ec_4rJylMRqGpLqhAGr0RNkYh, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022399908000627?casa_token=qaWM_VM4mocAAAAA:mcXMTRbh6up3lVCVzulYBcE89hir2CxNhnb3bfZg3g330liL7AZnXdPqhrAmkdUYPb5fW2oy, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938499000943?casa_token=8toE54jmRFQAAAAA:MtsgUIDH1v3QDTy2NBx6geZC4gN1Ue7LK1LD6DqRpkXd72MLUFkp0L6bc-4GBy1cpQNBua0t. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. This is because high levels of progesterone can cause digested materials to travel more slowly through your system. You arent changing your pad or tampon enough. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. It's possible you have an infection. Compounds called prostaglandins tell your uterus to contract to give your uterine lining the heave-ho thats why cramps happen. But . Thanks to your prostaglandins stimulating the smooth muscles of your body like your uterus and bowels, you may feel the need to poop much more often during your period. Consult your doctor if your period stinks, and you have any unusual symptoms. You shouldnt douche either, as the process can get rid of healthy vaginal bacteria and lead to infection. and De Vries, C.S., 2008. Viral or bacterial infections and parasitic infections can affect digestion and cause foul-smelling stool or . They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. While these products may help, its always a good idea to check with your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications that could impact your health. Like we said, period poop can be on one end of the poop spectrum or the complete opposite. Want to manage your IBS in 15 minutes a day? The period has a strong smell due to the tissues and blood leaving the vagina along with bacteria. Coating materials like sorbitol (an indigestible sugar) can ferment and make your poop smell terrible. and Ford, A.C., 2012. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Talk to your doctor and see if your periods are making you anemic. Its no wonder many of us are in the dark about how our periods affect our bowel movements. There are several conditions that have similar symptoms to period poop that could indicate a more severe underlying gastrointestinal or gynecological condition. Stress reactivity and emotion in premenstrual syndrome. The tampon is scented and the scent is used as the fragrance. The number-one cause of pungent pee? Read evidence-based articles, guides, health resources and more. These conditions may also flare up during your period. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ejp.714?casa_token=p6xympb9drQAAAAA%3APBwlAgzDiHzUzYCnIuRdLAoj8A1qahZR-Dpx_U9dogU2jLiL7xrjxFH5DSK21zPddBVc_wlFanuPug, https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/51878, https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Chloe_Grimmett/publication/51393313_The_Effects_of_Exercise_upon_Symptoms_and_Quality_of_Life_in_Patients_Diagnosed_with_Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome_A_Randomised_Controlled_Trial/links/5447626b0cf22b3c14e0cb0d/The-Effects-of-Exercise-upon-Symptoms-and-Quality-of-Life-in-Patients-Diagnosed-with-Irritable-Bowel-Syndrome-A-Randomised-Controlled-Trial.pdf, https://www.hindawi.com/journals/prm/2006/731628/abs/, https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/39/12/884.short, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/nmo.13461?casa_token=dw4wklQKZ8UAAAAA:kBw4YZ_xxLb_XHae74Zyr5OKGmL32-GtmIyC2ogYDDgZbqHbQTn87Rrxl08JUecpgN9QaopP2vG9DA, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-051X.1993.tb00697.x?casa_token=PMv3H55aWQkAAAAA:xaEmvfutFywt3FLvB7GS0iovrjU4FHYE0f4pzMbx7jNFpEsjdhmSJSwHx7JdzDXFSRFi0kVYJHYKdA, https://accpjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/j.1875-9114.1992.tb04479.x, https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00003495-198122010-00003, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1542356512003084?casa_token=6v2Z9ylEkRcAAAAA:iKcsh1B2Kg5jH0Zj3hpuVStpJz8dGa3P4kDKtaqq-IFksP9s3IjdTuILA03I-_ZdSghoOseL, https://journals.lww.com/gastroenterologynursing/Fulltext/2006/01000/Increased_Symptoms_in_Female_IBS_Patients_With.00002.aspx?casa_token=sGg3xj7R2VAAAAAA:KAKsF0P5stPHqnrxZUg37Nlkm_ti7wXVvEj6XmyRlk8JptYTg4kG6tO1m3X7tQtL5Y7nrbsdSC2XbhV6AB3-Gg, https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.01879.x, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12325-018-0673-5, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1933719117711262, Too much water (if you tend to have diarrhea on your period). Are you having period cramps, constipation cramps or diarrhea cramps? "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." LIVESTRONG.com may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. During the luteal phase (after ovulation and before you period) increased levels of progesterone may induce unusual cravings and influence your diet. Stress can also affect a persons bowel movements, causing constipation or diarrhea. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? One of which is consuming metal-rich foods, too frequent. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. Unfortunately, a poop smell from your vagina is not always so simply solved. But did you know, it can work the other way as well? Either of these can be healthy. Here are the main causes of vulvar pain plus, Your cervix gets lower and softer before menstruation. Once again, this is due to the magic of hormones! More often than not, sitting on the toilet to take a poo will dislodge your tampon, whether its a fresh one or not. (Side note: it's also possible to forget you're wearing a diva cup and think you're just wearing a pad. The nerves in your stomach are linked to the brain through an internal link called the gut-brain connection. Any old, black, dark, or deep red blood should be discussed with GP. Here's What Your Vaginal Odor Is Trying to Tell You, What Your Vaginal Discharge Means, According to an Ob-Gyn, 3 Reasons You Might Have Vaginal Discharge After Working Out, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Bacterial Vaginosis CDC Fact Sheet, Women's Medical Associates of Nashville: "The Most Common Vaginal Odors (And Why They Happen)". Progesterone may increase feelings of hunger and can cause cravings for foods high in fat or sugar, such as ice cream or chocolate. Progesterone is another type of hormone released into your body as part of your monthly cycle. 14 Causes of Irregular Periods. Youre better off using unscented products and wearing breathable cotton underwear and clothing to keep unpleasant odors at bay. Additionally, your digestive symptoms might worsen due to stress levels or changes in your diet (like, for instance, how your period makes you want to eat a box of donuts for dinner). "I've seen retained tampons that can cause a really foul smell because someone has forgotten to take them out," Dr. Shirazian says. 1. Additionally, your digestive symptoms might worsen due to stress levels or changes in your diet (like, for instance, how your period makes you want to eat a box of donuts for dinner). Hence seed immediate medial attention. If you do use tampons, mind that string! Flow on the Fritz? Taking ibuprofen 24 hours before your period starts can prevent the release of prostaglandins. Many period smells are totally normal, but there are a few you should tell your doctor about. Wald A. The smell lasts for upto 4 days after my period, and i usually have to douche to remove the smell. Ricciotti, E. and FitzGerald, G.A., 2011. Menstrual cups, absorbent underwear, or pads may save you from going through box after box of tampons. Liu, Q., Wang, Y., van Heck, C. and Qiao, W., 2017. Rachmilewitz, D., 1980. Heres How to Remove Period Stains Like a Pro. Prostaglandins and inflammation. Do fluctuations in ovarian hormones affect gastrointestinal symptoms in women with irritable bowel syndrome?. "As blood exits the vagina, especially if there's a lot of bleeding, it can change the pH of the vagina," Dr. Shirazian explains. And wondering why your vagina smells like poop may not be something you're comfortable asking your BFF about as you chat over mimosas and french toast at brunch. Constipation can happen before your period even starts. This is certainly not a normal or desirable aroma to be experiencing. If youre concerned that you may have forgotten to remove a tampon, try to feel at the opening of your vagina for the strings. Women, were all in the same boat here. Quiz: Could hypnosis help you quit smoking? A slight change is usually nothing to worry about, Dr. Greves said, but if all of a sudden your period smells. It can be difficult to tell the difference between uterus cramps and stomach or intestinal cramps at this time. Vaginal dryness impacts more than 50% of women experiencing menopause, and there are a range of options at your disposal to increase lubrication. What Causes Yellow Discharge Before Your Period? The fistula allows feces to leak into the vagina. Once treatment begins, the bacteria slowly begins to balance out. Take our free quiz to discover if hypnotherapy can work for you. Some women tend to encounter rotten smells from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow. The smell usually subsides after completing or changing your medication. Its normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. It's normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. Change your tampon if any poo or toilet water gets on it. During each menstrual cycle, the body goes through many hormonal shifts. Prostaglandins are also involved in many other PMS symptoms, including headaches. Here are a few things you can do to make your poop softer and bulkier and help your intestines do their job: For some of us, diarrhea is a special treat that comes along with our period. Many women experience this monthly change in their toilet habits, especially if theyre prone to emotional changes during their cycle. DOI: Ways your period messes with your business, Periods and poops: A guide to proper care and cleanup, niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea, goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/do-i-need-change-my-tampon-after-using-bathroom-0, womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/endometriosis, pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/march/poop, womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/your-menstrual-cycle, gi.org/topics/constipation-and-defection-problems/, What You Need to Know About Period Poverty And Ways You Can Help, Could You Be Going Through Perimenopause? So why didnt you learn about this from sex ed classes or awkward puberty talks? Its no doubt that pooping on your period is messy. They basically double-team on slowing down your digestion and scaring away your poop. Something went wrong while submitting the form. While most odors are healthy, some may be signs of an infection. Being mindful of what you eat, before and during your period, can help. This can cause symptoms such as: Additionally, prostaglandins may cause the body to absorb more water and make stools softer, causing diarrhea. Clearly, youre a pro front-to-back wiper. In addition, research has identified a link between IBS, period pain, and endometriosis.. In fact, I'm surprised it hasn't happened to me yet." People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are more likely to have severe period cramps and be diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) than those who do not. "The problem with these is that they just cover up the odor. You may have constipation, diarrhea, stomach cramps, pain, and changes in poop color and smell. However, if youre having bowel problems frequently, with symptoms occurring at different points in your cycle, you may have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Best food forward: Are algae the future of sustainable nutrition? If your used tampons always smell, try changing them more often, only using the smallest size you need at the time. A few things can cause pain when you poop while on your period, including: constipation, which can make stool hard and painful to pass. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Take the quiz to see if your symptoms are consistent with IBS. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Well, a quick Google search of the subject about this particular subject could lead you to a dark place. Evia uses gut-brain hypnotherapy to help you manage menopausal hot flashes and night sweats without drugs. People assigned male at birth often have no symptoms, but those assigned female can have a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge. If this is a continual problem, take your tampon out before pooping. However, ibuprofen may cause side effects such as: If your period poops are severe and are getting in the way of your daily life, it might be time to ask for help. Global prevalence of and risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome: a meta-analysis. Rotten smell. This will help limit the growth of bacteria and you should feel fresher throughout the day. However, if the symptom persists, consult your doctor to identify the possible cause. Understand the science behind hypnotherapy and how it works. Last medically reviewed on November 15, 2019. She notes that this is not as uncommon as you think, and moms especially are given to distraction and having this happen. Constipation? This condition can cause a range of digestive problems, the most common of which include: If you think you might have IBS, it is best to seek medical advice for a diagnosis., Period poops show us how the reproductive system can influence the digestive tract. Diarrhea? Lovell, R.M. Period poop is a thing because periods are a thing.