IBS Relief After My Period

I never thought it could happen, but lately, I’ve been looking forward to my period. The reason is that my gut seems to "reset" afterward. It’s such a relief—no bloating, no cramps, at least for a week or so.

Hormones influences IBS

I asked my OBGYN about it, and she confirmed that IBS is influenced by our hormones. She explained that it’s common for IBS symptoms to fluctuate with hormonal changes throughout the month. After menstruation, many women find their IBS symptoms reset, bringing a period of calm to their digestive system.

When my period begins, it feels like a rollercoaster for my body. Hormonal changes often mean increased discomfort, including bloating, cramps, and changes in bowel habits. The body is under a lot of stress during this time, and the digestive system is no exception.

After my period my IBS takes a break

But once menstruation ends, my body starts to stabilize. Hormone levels balance out, and this is when many women notice significant improvement in their IBS symptoms. It’s as if the digestive system takes a deep breath and starts to function more smoothly. This period after menstruation can feel like a reset, providing a much-needed break from the intense symptoms experienced earlier in the cycle.

During this phase, I feel more in control and comfortable in my daily life. I feel more confident, I can wear all my clothes and I am back on being myself fully. I really hope that I will feel this way on my -soon to come- wedding day! Of course the event is surrounded by many other IBS related fears, but I decided to not stress to much about it - yet!

Making the most of this time

During this more stable time, it’s helpful to focus on gentle self-care and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Eating a well-rounded diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating gentle exercise can support digestive health and extend the period of relief. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can also help keep IBS symptoms at bay. Following this kind approach to my body, has been the best decision ever. It helped ease a lot of my IBS disorders.

Understanding this cycle of symptoms can be empowering. Knowing there’s a light at the end of the tunnel after menstruation can help women with IBS navigate their month more effectively. It allows for better planning and managing of activities and responsibilities, knowing that relief is on the horizon.

I honestly think that in school, they do not teach in depth how our body work. Especially for women, where our monthly period affects every aspect of our body and mind.

So, while the days leading up to and during menstruation may be challenging for those with IBS, the period following menstruation can bring a much-needed reset, allowing for a return to a more balanced and less symptomatic life—at least for a while!