Peri Menopause and Menopause Gut Health: Hormones and Digestion

It's no secret that peri menopause and menopause can cause all sorts of weird and wonderful changes in our bodies. But did you know that it could also affect your gut health?

Yep, those fluctuating hormone levels can wreak havoc on your digestion, leading to constipation and other digestive issues. Here's our guide to preventing and relieving constipation.

With all the changes your body is going through, including hot flushes, changes in weight, mood changes and even an increased risk of osteoporosis, it's important to look after your gut health too.

There's growing evidence around the gut-brain axis, which suggests that the health of our gut can have a significant impact on our mental wellbeing. So if you're feeling a bit rubbish during peri menopause or menopause, it might be worth considering focussing on your gut health.

Here's what you need to know about peri menopause and menopause gut health...

What is peri menopause?

Peri menopause is the time leading up to menopause, when our hormone levels start to fluctuate and change. It usually lasts for around four years but can last up to ten!

Peri menopausal women can experience all sorts of symptoms including hot flushes, mood changes, weight gain and insomnia.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the point when a woman's periods stop, typically occurring aged between 45 and 55 - but we're sure that you know women outside this range.

As well as the aforementioned symptoms, menopausal women may also experience changes in their sexual function.

How do hormones affect gut health?

Alterations in the levels of hormones progesterone and oestrogen related to menopause can affect how fast food moves through the GI (gastro intestinal) tract, and symptoms of constipation. Higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone, especially during peri-menopause, may slow your intestinal movements and cause constipation.

Peri menopausal women may experience constipation, as well as bloating, gas and abdominal pain. Menopausal women may also suffer from these symptoms, as well as diarrhoea. If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's important to speak to your GP.

How can I improve my peri menopause and menopause gut health?

There are a few things you can do to help ease peri menopause and menopause gut health problems:

Eat a healthy diet: This one is important for all sorts of reasons, but a healthy diet rich in fibre can help with peri menopause and menopause digestive issues.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water will help to keep things moving through your system.
Movement: Exercise is important for gut health, as well as general physical and mental wellbeing.
Consider taking a biotic that targets gut health or increasing the amount of pre or pro biotic foods you're eating. This may help to ease peri menopause and menopause gut health issues.

If you're struggling, speak to your GP: They may be able to prescribe medication or refer you for further tests or treatment.