If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Any fecal matter that close to your pretty little flower poses a risk of vaginal infections, and nobody wants that. Who's the culprit? Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Rotten smell. Here's Why, Vulvar Pain During Your Period? Poop and Periods: 10 Reasons Why It's A Shitty Combo In females who have chronic bowel issues or an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohns disease, menstruation can make symptoms worse. In many cases, foul-smelling stools occur due to the foods people eat and the bacteria present . Digestive conditions that can contribute to foul-smelling stool include celiac disease, Crohn's disease, chronic pancreatitis and diseases that cause malabsorption, like cystic fibrosis and pancreatic infection, according to Mount Sinai. The increased acid and bacteria in your vagina is why your period blood smells sweet. Why Does My Poop Smell Like Moth Balls? About 14% of the population has IBS. This is why your period blood smells, according to a gynecologist - Yahoo! "The problem with these is that they just cover up the odor. Kuttner, L., Chambers, C.T., Hardial, J., Israel, D.M., Jacobson, K. and Evans, K., 2006. But . Dr. Shepherd says that kind of odor can indicate an infection, like bacterial vaginosis. This is most likely related to the vaginal substance itself, but bacteria and acidity can also play a role. Period Poops: Why Do They Happen? - Cleveland Clinic The smell of period poop is due in part by the change in women's eating habits, normally the week before their period. If an egg is not fertilized and implanted, that lining is released," Taraneh Shirazian, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn with NYU Langone, tells LIVESTRONG.com. Some people describe these changes as period poop.. The number-one cause of pungent pee? It's also possible that you have an infection. It may take a while for you to learn how your body reacts during this time and how best to care for yourself (and your aching uterus/gastrointestinal tract). Or you might have a hemorrhoid a swollen blood vessel that burst or fell off while you were pooping. Progesterone, though its main job is preparing your body for pregnancy, is also responsible for the regularity or irregularity of your periods. Healthy periods can have a slight smell of blood. National Library of Medicines list Some women experience more gas before their period or notice that their farts are extra-smelly. Youre better off using unscented products and wearing breathable cotton underwear and clothing to keep unpleasant odors at bay. If this is you, you will definitely want to up your fiber and water intake during your period. The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. It's normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. A slight change is usually nothing to worry about, Dr. Greves said, but if all of a sudden your period smells. Mary Jane Minkin, MD, OB/GYN at Yale University, Dr. Tara Carpacci, nurse practitioner and lecturer, This article was originally published on November 4, 2017, Karmic Relationships: What They Are & When To Leave, According To Experts, Placenta Previa Dos & Donts, & What To Expect When You Give Birth, Vaginal Bleeding After C-Section: What To Expect & How Long It Lasts, What Parents Are Talking About Delivered Straight To Your Inbox, By subscribing to this BDG newsletter, you agree to our. The conversation around our periods is changing. Prostaglandins are also involved in many other PMS symptoms, including headaches. Here's how to tell if you might be entering this, Blood stains on clothing from menstruation is a frustration for many. The scoop on poop: What does your poop say about your health? "There's also a chance that it's some sort of infection that's happening, or you might have forgotten a tampon and it's beginning to rot, which may smell vaguely like poop before it begins to putrefy in earnest." Hello cramps! Plus, your butt might be sore from all the extra bathroom trips and wiping (especially if you have diarrhea). If your periods are also really heavy and long-lasting, talk to your doctor about options that can minimize the length and duration of your period, such as oral hormonal birth control or an intrauterine device (IUD), Dr. Shirazian says. This one is probably one of the most irritating things about pooping on your period. 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. The role of low progesterone and tension as triggers of perimenstrual chocolate and sweets craving: some negative experimental evidence. V-Steams 101: What is Vaginal Steaming and How Does it Work. Stress reactivity and emotion in premenstrual syndrome. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. You have a rare fistula between your colon and vagina. The smell usually subsides after completing or changing your medication. Last medically reviewed on June 13, 2018. Sometimes having a flow from one hole just isnt enough for Mother Natures standards, when shes feeling especially wicked. Also, read; Here are 3 things the smell of your period blood is saying about your health. Butt, just because its normal, does not mean its not shitty. For some, progesterone can affect the gastrointestinal tract to cause either constipation or diarrhea. Poop Appearance - The Scoop on Your Poop's Size, Shape & Color You have had prolonged labor with some blood vessels squeezed by the babys head and some areas of the vagina have died and filled in with a communication to the bowel (a fistula). It results from the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Good hygiene practices can also combat normal period odors and make you more comfortable during menstruation. The blood is mostly liquid but might also contain small, jelly-like chunks. Unlike other normal odors, fishiness is a big sign of an underlying medical condition that needs the attention of a medical doctor. Another possibility is that you're taking metal supplements, which can also lead to the production of metal-based smells. These are most likely caused by not practicing good hygiene during the menstrual cycle. foul smelling periods like feces | Menstrual cycle (period) related Yoga for anxiety: a systematic review of the research evidence. Any old, black, dark, or deep red blood should be discussed with GP. Why Does My Floss Smell Like Poop? Its no doubt that pooping on your period is messy. Many women and other menstruating folks report that they experience more frequent bowel movements during their period. (2017). Period-related bowel changes can be unpleasant, but they usually end as the period ends. First off, it might be your hormones. Other odor changes during your period can include a sweaty gym smell or an odor of onions or salt. If your period smells like poop, this could be the culprit. Period poop is a thing because periods are a thing. The orientation of pelvic muscles in your body may make some people more likely to push out their tampon during a bowel movement.. "Menstrual blood smells different due to the fact that the blood is more than just blood," says Dr. Shepherd. "When your body is dehydrated , the urine has a strong odor and appears dark in color," says Sherry Ross, M.D., an ob-gyn at . They also often report looser stools. Sometimes, its honestly hard to tell. Many period smells are totally normal, but there are a few you should tell your doctor about. While the exact cause of this overgrowth isnt understood, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. Exercise therapy of patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Yup, you have your changing hormones to thank for all those side effects. Once treatment begins, the bacteria slowly begins to balance out. In other words, this is a completely normal smell. 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. See a certified medical professional for diagnosis. If your period blood smells strong and fishy, that might be cause for concern. Its normal for menstrual periods to have a slight odor. PMS cravings will have you binging on hot cheetos and ice cream, and next thing you know youve surprised even yourself after that first trip to the bathroom after your period hits and it hits different trust us. Download your free guide to managing IBS with hypnotherapy, Manage IBS symptoms without diets or drugs. 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Any odors you might notice during your period can also fluctuate. Period blood may smell metallic due to the presence of blood and iron. Your whole body might feel more sensitive to pain at that time of the month. You're cleaning the right way, you should poop the right way! For example, in people with IBD-related constipation, progesterone-associated changes can make constipation worse. There are several reasons why passing a bowel movement may hurt during your period. Oh, and if you wear period underwear (which are truly wonderful, btw), you may want to consider if you need to change them or if they're being properly washed. What gives? Poor oral hygiene can cause your breath to smell like poop. Dr. Martin Raff answered. Constipation can happen before your period even starts. Take our free quiz to discover if hypnotherapy can work for you. Generally speaking, period odors arent noticeable to others. In that case, make an appointment with your doctor. We share eight methods to help regulate your menstrual cycle and manage premenstrual symptoms. 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. Here are 9 causes of smelly urine. This question should be posed to a gynecologist. Seaman, H.E., Ballard, K.D., Wright, J.T. What is the latest research on the form of cancer Jimmy Carter has? Role of progesterone signaling in the regulation of G-protein levels in female chronic constipation. Furthermore, people with IBD are more likely to experience other PMS symptoms, such as headaches or menstrual pain. First things first, why does period blood smell? If youre having period poops, it means youre experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or foul-smelling poop around the time of your period. But if the scent is strong and you notice other symptoms, such as cottage cheese-like discharge, burning, dryness or itchiness, you could have a yeast infection. Ali, T.T. You shouldnt douche either, as the process can get rid of healthy vaginal bacteria and lead to infection. Menstruation involves the shedding of blood and tissue from the uterine lining through the vagina. Just before menstruation, the body releases hormones known as prostaglandins. This sensitivity can exacerbate symptoms, too. Some women have been known to experience and report a fishy smell during menstruation. This shift in pattern is because the bowel is affected by period-related hormone changes. Because the pelvic muscles operate so closely to your anal sphincter, bearing down to poop may move or expel your tampon. Something else could be going on. Changes in bathroom habits like constipation, diarrhea, and stomach cramps are side effects of your period too. A tampon left in for too long or forgotten could lead to a rotten odor. She emphasizes that this issue does not mean you arent taking care of yourself or that you necessarily have bad hygiene, noting that it's just that the vagina is literally right next door to the rectum very close and the bacteria can give the odor. This is also true for people with conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts. Some such conditions include: You may even notice changes to your poops during perimenopause and menopause. "The first thing you might want to do is think back to what you ate," Dr. Lee says. Read more about possible foods, alternatives, and more. Are you having period cramps, constipation cramps or diarrhea cramps? Take the quiz and find out if you can manage your flare-ups by fixing the miscommunication between your gut and brain, Created by Dr Simone Peters from Monash University. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. 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. High levels of progesterone are linked to binge eating and cravings before your period, which explains why period poop smells. 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. and Severi, C., 2015. So this would likely be a variant of bacterial vaginosis when the bad guy bacteria predominate over the good guys of the vagina, Minkin says. Some people choose to take the pill continuously and avoid having periods at all. These hormones stimulate muscle contractions in the uterus. Your menstrual cycle is regulated by the hormones progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone, which all work together. Deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays, arent recommended because of the possibility of irritation. Studies have shown that your cycle can affect mood regulation and increase negative emotions and sensitivity to stress.Stress and anxiety have been shown to affect bowel movements and can cause diarrhea or constipation. Lovell, R.M. Why Does My Poop Smell Like Metal? [Causes & Solution Explained!] More Black Women Have Heavier Periods and Fibroids: Whats the Deal? Raise your hand if you get bloated, crave a Snickers, or feel hella weepy when watching sappy commercials before or during your period. The . Wrapping Up In short, period poop is unpleasant for many reasons. More often than not, sitting on the toilet to take a poo will dislodge your tampon, whether its a fresh one or not. It also means you can get pregnant from anal sex," Carpacci says. When progesterone builds up in your body before your period, it may affect your digestive system and cause constipation. Understand the science behind hypnotherapy and how it works. Theres no way around it. You might notice that you poop more often during your period. 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. The menstrual cycle is important in the development of the female body but has a range of uncomfortable effects. 11 Reasons Why Your Pee Smells Weird | Women's Health If this happens and your period comes, the bacteria will have extra food (blood) to eat and multiply! This will help limit the growth of bacteria and you should feel fresher throughout the day. Some other effective exercises for gastrointestinal upset include: Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication commonly used to treat pain and fever. Rodio-Janeiro, B.K., Vicario, M., Alonso-Cotoner, C., Pascua-Garca, R. and Santos, J., 2018. Prostaglandins and diarrhea. While the particular cause of the overgrowth isnt known, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. You need to see your provider and get a full evaluation to determine what is causing the smell and how it can be remedied," Carpacci says. Daily showers are also important, and you can help prevent period odors by cleaning the outside of your vagina only. Eating certain foods can increase the frequency of bowel movements and relieve constipation. (BV can also itch and burn, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, so it's not exactly a walk in the park.) Iacovides, S., Avidon, I. and Baker, F.C., 2015. Foul-smelling poop can be caused by: Celiac disease Crohn's disease Chronic pancreatitis, which is inflammation of your pancreas Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that can affect your lungs, pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestines An intestinal infection, which can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasites in your intestine Malabsorption Dr. Greves recommends increasing your fiber intake a few days before your period starts to avoid constipation. "A common one is lactose, but people can . Popular vagina myth-busting ob-gyn Dr. Jen Gunter has an amazing saying: "It's a vagina, not a pia colada!" Having Irregular Periods After Marriage? Basically, you want to keep that area as clean and dry as possible. Malabsorption. "If you have twin 2-year-olds banging on the door while you're trying to change your tampon, as I did, it could easily happen.. Do fluctuations in ovarian hormones affect gastrointestinal symptoms in women with irritable bowel syndrome?. Rachmilewitz, D., 1980. Gut pain? A menstrual period consists of the shedding of an unfertilized egg, blood, and uterine lining tissues. (2007). 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. Although you wont find this term in a medical dictionary, its a common way to describe changes in your bowel movements around the time of your period. Xiao, Z.L., Pricolo, V., Biancani, P. and Behar, J., 2005. Question: Why Does My Period Blood Smell Like Dog Poop Its partially caused by changing levels of hormones such as prostaglandins and progesterone. In this article, we look at possible reasons why periods can affect bowel movements and some tips for managing the symptoms. If you're noticing a particularly fecal smell emanating from your vagina, you've every right to be concerned. What 7 Urine Smells Mean, According to a Urologist | livestrong One possibility is that you have an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis. Diarrhea? Bacterial vaginosis: CDC fact sheet. Heres the Deal, Here's How Your Cervix Changes Before Your Period. Period Poop: Causes, Symptoms, Tips for Relief - Greatist Diarrhea means your poop is soft and watery, and you may have to go a lot. If you think you might have a more serious problem, dont be afraid to ask for help from a professional. Other options include eating yogurt with active cultures or popping a probiotic. What if you could calm IBS in just 6 weeks? This can cause symptoms such as: Additionally, prostaglandins may cause the body to absorb more water and make stools softer, causing diarrhea. On the path to wellness, were here to show you the way. When youve got the big D, over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) and bismuth subsalicylate (Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol) can help. ALSO SEE: Why Does My Poop Smell Like Metal? And you know what? Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. There could be an easy solution, but there could be something more serious happening. Increased symptoms in female IBS patients with dysmenorrhea and PMS. A period so heavy that it prevents you from doing everyday activities isnt, A menstrual period is vaginal bleeding that occurs at the end of the monthly menstrual cycle. Be sure to clean up carefully, especially if youre wearing tampons. Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. A metallic-smelling poop could be caused by various factors. Food-related gastrointestinal symptoms in the irritable bowel syndrome. These conditions may also flare up during your period. They cause the muscle contractions that help your uterus shed its lining during your period. Period poop: How does your period affect bowel movements? If home treatments do not help, a doctor may recommend medication for an underlying issue or hormonal treatments. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. Why Does My Period Blood Smell Like Poop? [EXPLAINED]