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

Minkin says that if the odor persists, your health care provider would likely perform an examination and testing to determine a course of treatment to get your vagina back into balance and smelling more like it should. Once the bacteria is balanced out after treatment, you should no longer notice any unusual smells or other symptoms during your period. If youre lucky enough to not lose your tampon every time, then theres no rule that says you have to change it after you poop, its completely your prerogative unless theres poop on the string, then definitely get rid of that thing. While for others, it can cause constipation. The period has a strong smell due to the tissues and blood leaving the vagina along with bacteria. Menstruation involves the shedding of blood and tissue from the uterine lining through the vagina. Its completely normal for this combination to have a slight odor after it exits the vagina. Mark Norman Deputy Chief of the Ministry of The Truth Author has 112 answers and 48.6K answer views 6 mo Related If you don't want to wait, you can talk to your doctor about a prescription for metronidazole, an antibiotic treatment for BV. Progesterone. In more extreme cases, ibuprofen or taking the contraceptive pill should help to reduce symptoms. The orientation of pelvic muscles in your body may make some people more likely to push out their tampon during a bowel movement.. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. People assigned male at birth often have no symptoms, but those assigned female can have a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge. But something else may be going on if you have poop or diarrhea that: A healthcare provider can check to make sure theres no other health condition causing those symptoms. What gives? You betcha. Daily showers are also important, and you can help prevent period odors by cleaning the outside of your vagina only. . Learn how IUDs can affect your menstrual flow and what you can do about it. Cant Stop, Wont Stop: Why Wont My Period End? If things are particularly messy, hop in the shower and rinse off (external parts only no need to clean inside your va-jay-jay). In that case, make an appointment with your doctor. Two important hormones are responsible for the majority of your period symptoms, including what type of poop you have during your cycle. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. 2. Maybe someone could have said, Now that youre growing up, you can expect to bleed a little each month oh, and youre gonna get torrential diarrhea.. By frequently changing tampons and pads, you may be able to control such odors, especially on days when you have a lot of flow. There could be an easy solution, but there could be something more serious happening. Lets go back to sex ed for a second: Typically the menstrual cycle is 28 days long, but it can be longer or shorter. Your whole body might feel more sensitive to pain at that time of the month. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. Something else could be going on. The scoop on poop: What does your poop say about your health? Change your tampon if any poo or toilet water gets on it. Over the last 4 months i have been experiencing foul smelling periods, i don't usually have a smell from my vagina but every period i get a foul smell similar to feces. In fact, I'm surprised it hasn't happened to me yet." If this is you, you will definitely want to up your fiber and water intake during your period. As for that uniquely rank smell? High levels of progesterone are linked to binge eating and cravings before your period, which explains why period poop smells. If diet and habit changes dont help, or youve got bloody poop, call your healthcare provider. In a word: don't. This is usually due to vaginal dryness or vigorous sex that can cause small cuts or scrapes. Try adjusting your diet accordingly depending on which type of poops youre more prone to. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Are you having period cramps, constipation cramps or diarrhea cramps? Some such conditions include: You may even notice changes to your poops during perimenopause and menopause. Prostaglandins and inflammation. This can occur at the end of a period when you dont require insertion of a new tampon as frequently, and there is no more bleeding. Consult your doctor if your period stinks, and you have any unusual symptoms. The same way that bearing down can dislodge your tampon, it can also change the way your menstrual cup sits, making it feel uncomfortable enough that youll probably end up taking it out, just to put it back in. While many vaginal smells are easily explained away, a fecal smell from your vagina is not only embarrassing, but also can be worrisome if youre unsure why its happening. Or you might have a hemorrhoid a swollen blood vessel that burst or fell off while you were pooping. (2016). While some odors are completely normal when you have your period, others may be a sign that you need to see your doctor. When youve got the big D, over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) can help. Rachmilewitz, D., 1980. As the day wears on, bacteria develop which causes an odor and the odor sticks to your pad if you dont change it. These contractions help the body to shed the uterus lining. "The problem with these is that they just cover up the odor. She adds that this problem can only be fixed surgically, and healing is not a fun process. 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. 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. For example, people with IBS are more likely to experience additional symptoms, such as abdominal pain and headaches, during the period. Your period blood can smell like poop if: You suffer from excess bacteria in your vagina (Vaginosis). About 14% of the population has IBS. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. The blood is from the lining of the uterus, and it has an odor all its own it generally smells metallic. Why does my period blood smell like poop? This can happen at the end of a period, when you dont have to insert a new tampon as often and you have no further bleeding. Global prevalence of and risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome: a meta-analysis. Coating materials like sorbitol (an indigestible sugar) can ferment and make your poop smell terrible. Michener, W., Rozin, P., Freeman, E. and Gale, L., 1999. During each menstrual cycle, the body goes through many hormonal shifts. vaginal discharge outside of menstrual bleeding. You have a rare fistula between your colon and vagina. Period farts might be unpleasant, but do not be embarrassed. The pill prevents ovulation and keeps levels of poop-causing prostaglandins low. First off, it might be your hormones. A rotten or foul odor from your nether region warrants a trip to the ob-gyn, Dr. Shirazian says. 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. Period poverty when someone cannot access period products and related hygiene resources affects people all over the world, including in the U.S. Perimenopause is the phase where your body transitions from its reproductive years to menopause. Find out what could be causing it and how to prevent it in the future. Purchase breathable cotton underwear here. Flushable wipes can really come in hand during your period, but they're still not entirely eco-friendly or cost effective. Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Ricciotti, E. and FitzGerald, G.A., 2011. Those shifts in your diet mean youre probably eating different amounts of fat and carbs than usual, which can change the way your poop looks and smells. If youre having period poops, it means youre experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or foul-smelling poop around the time of your period. Viral or bacterial infections and parasitic infections can affect digestion and cause foul-smelling stool or . Another possibility is that you're taking metal supplements, which can also lead to the production of metal-based smells. A skunk-like scent or a smell similar to body odor may be a sign that you're stressed and your sweat glands are working overtime. Bacterial vaginosis: CDC fact sheet. If you find that certain foods cause foul-smelling gas or loose, smelly poop, you might have an underlying intolerance. Try to get about 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories you eat each day. Progesterone is another hormone that increases right before a menstrual period. If you think you may have a tampon stuck up there but aren't able to get it out on your own, make an appointment with your ob-gyn ASAP. Viral or bacterial illnesses. It is normal for some womens period to smell like bad meat, and if it came late, then that isnt good, Id recommend seeing a gynecologist about that. So, begin by changing it frequently. A menstrual period consists of the shedding of an unfertilized egg, blood, and uterine lining tissues. An attachable bidet is a game-changer for having a fresh butt and lady parts during your period! If your used tampons always smell, try changing them more often, only using the smallest size you need at the time. Stress reactivity and emotion in premenstrual syndrome. Heart failure: Could a low sodium diet sometimes do more harm than good? LIVESTRONG.com may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Period poop is a totally normal thing, but it might not smell or look like your usual poop. Gut pain? Your period blood can smell like poop if: Menstrual blood or period is made of the shreds of unfertilized eggs, blood, and uterine lining tissues. Zutshi M, et al. Experiencing constipation while on your period is also normal for many women who have lower levels of prostaglandins and higher levels of progesterone. Seaman, H.E., Ballard, K.D., Wright, J.T. National Library of Medicines list This may be worsened if you drink coffee while on your period, as caffeine has a laxative effect. Whether youre constipated or having the runs, its gonna get messy. One way to help keep a good flora is to try a product like Pro-B, which is a combination of probiotics very similar to the 'good guys' of the vagina, Minkin suggests. 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. They basically double-team on slowing down your digestion and scaring away your poop. Take our free assessment to discover if hypnotherapy can work for you. Many women experience this monthly change in their toilet habits, especially if theyre prone to emotional changes during their cycle. It can even be painful for a number of reasons. The resulting rotten smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldnt be strong enough for others to detect. Odors you notice during your menstrual flow can also fluctuate. Progesterone helps regulate your period: levels of this hormone rise to prepare your body for conception and pregnancy, then drop at the start of your menses if no egg is fertilized. Heitkemper, M. and Jarrett, M., 2008. [ANSWERED]. Unlike other common odors, fishiness usually indicates a medical problem that you need to see a doctor for. Some people choose to take the pill continuously and avoid having periods at all. She says if you notice any discharge at all around your rectum, this is likely the case. Poor oral hygiene can cause your breath to smell like poop. Changes in bowel habits are often temporary and harmless. [& Other FAQ]. Poop or bowel cramps can occur higher up in the stomach if youve got gas or slightly lower, towards your intestines. Some symptoms of period poops can include: In addition to proving that period poops are a common occurrence, the study also showed that youre more likely to experience digestive issues during your period if youre also experiencing emotional symptoms, like depressed mood and anxiety. And dont get us started on period farts. "No matter what, this is not an issue you can self-diagnose or self-treat. Food-related gastrointestinal symptoms in the irritable bowel syndrome. This is also true for people with conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts. However, diet and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk or impact of stomach upset, constipation, or diarrhea. Try not to strain when passing a bowel movement. Were hiring for several roles. ], Why Does My Poop Smell Like Popcorn? Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. Last medically reviewed on June 13, 2018. Does pain vary across the menstrual cycle? 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. Read evidence-based articles, guides, health resources and more. 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.