Your hormones aren’t the sole reason for your irregular period cycle! Ulcerative colitis (UC) can also contribute to this issue. Keep reading to learn more about the connection.
When you hear the word “periods,” you likely think of mood swings, cramps, bloating, sore breasts, breakouts, and more. These symptoms are a result of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. While the menstrual cycle is challenging for most women, those with ulcerative colitis (UC) experience more severe and intense symptoms. Many women with UC complain of irregular menstrual cycles and painful periods with severe PMS. This could be linked to ulcerative colitis, which is another potential cause of irregular periods.
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It leads to ulcers, inflammation, and irritation in the lining of the large intestine, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fatigue, and weight loss. While the exact cause is unknown, a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors is believed to be involved. Although there is no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms and reducing inflammation through medications, lifestyle adjustments, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
Individuals with ulcerative colitis may experience the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain (often on the left side)
- Persistent diarrhea (sometimes bloody or pus-filled)
- A constant urge to pass stools
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis are common in menstruating women and can include irritability, nervousness, restlessness, headache, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, leg swelling, low back pain, constipation, increased urination, abdominal pain, and exhaustion.
![Woman having period pain Woman having period pain](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/02/06140212/mesntruation-370x207.jpg)
What is the link between ulcerative colitis and menstruation?
People with UC may experience changes in their periods or an irregular menstrual cycle. Gastroenterologist Sharad Malhotra explains, “Ulcerative colitis can be influenced by hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can affect the immune system and gastrointestinal function, exacerbating inflammation in individuals with ulcerative colitis and leading to increased symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding during certain phases of the menstrual cycle.”
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A study published in the journal Inflammatory Bowel Diseases found that out of 1,200 women studied, half reported heightened inflammatory bowel disease symptoms during menstruation. Besides how the menstrual cycle impacts UC, chronic inflammation and malnutrition associated with UC can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system, leading to hormonal imbalances and menstrual irregularities.
The interaction between UC and menstruation can be complex to manage. Additionally, the stress associated with menstruation can trigger or worsen UC flare-ups due to hormonal imbalances.
UC medications can affect the period cycle!
Dr. Malhotra explains, “Medications commonly used to manage UC symptoms, like corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, can potentially interfere with the menstrual cycle and worsen menstrual symptoms.”
![Medicines with a glass of water Medicines with a glass of water](https://images.healthshots.com/healthshots/en/uploads/2024/01/23140646/medicines-370x207.jpg)
A study published in Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology focused on females aged 18 to 50 with UC or another IBD type. It found that those taking medication reported heightened symptoms like irritability, fatigue, lower back pain, and pelvic pain before menstruation, with increased severity in women who smoked.
If you experience menstrual irregularities or unexpected side effects from UC medication, it’s essential to discuss your concerns with your doctor for better management.