Gastroenterologist reveals how hormones impact women’s digestion, constipation, gut health

Constipation in women often begins as early as age 35. Experts reveal how hormones—from periods to menopause—play a bigger role in gut health than we think. (Image: Pexels)

Did you know that constipation often begins in women as early as age 35 due to hormonal changes? Women’s hormones play a bigger role in bowel health than most realise; from periods to pregnancy and menopause. Whether it’s constipation or bloating before your period, sluggish digestion during pregnancy, or  bathroom struggles post-menopause, your gut health is more connected to your hormones than you know. Experts are now paying attention to how a woman’s digestive health shifts across her life stages.

“Constipation in women often starts as early as the mid-thirties,” explains Dr Rakesh Patel, Senior Consultant-Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan. "Hormonal fluctuations—especially changes in oestrogen and progesterone—can slow down gut motility, affecting how food moves through the digestive tract", explains Dr Patel. These hormones don’t just regulate your reproductive cycle—they also affect the muscles in your digestive system.

In the days leading up to menstruation, for instance, women may experience constipation, bloating, or even cramping—all linked to these shifting hormones.

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“Many women assume it's something they ate,” says Dr Patel. "But often, it’s their body reacting to hormonal dips and spikes. Unfortunately, this isn’t commonly discussed, even in medical settings", he adds.

Pregnancy and supplements:

During pregnancy, the rising progesterone levels relax the muscles in the body—including the digestive system—slowing things down. “Add in the pressure from the growing uterus and iron supplements, and it’s no wonder constipation becomes a common complaint for expecting mothers,” Dr Patel shares, adding, “Lifestyle remedies like fibre or home hacks can help to a point. But sometimes, a gentle laxative or stool softener is a safe and effective solution—particularly during pregnancy, under medical supervision.”

Menopause and digestion:

Menopause brings its own set of gut changes. As oestrogen levels decline, some women may notice more frequent constipation or slower digestion. “Muscle tone weakens, metabolism drops, and even pelvic floor strength may reduce—further complicating bowel movements,” Dr Patel informs. According to Indian research, women over 60 are more likely than men to suffer from constipation, yet many don’t speak up. “There’s a cultural silence around bowel issues, especially among older women,” says Dr Patel. “It’s time we break that.”

Dr Patel further shares that misinformation and silence only add to the problem. “Many women don’t know that safe, over-the-counter solutions like laxatives can help. The fear of dependency or shame keeps them from getting relief.” he says and adds, “While long-term gut health still depends on good habits—like fibre-rich diets, hydration, and movement—curative tools like stool softeners or laxatives have their place, especially during hormonally active phases of life.” Overuse can, however, cause issues, so they should be used with guidance and balance.

The bowel is often the first place hormonal changes show up. Dr Patel says, “When women understand this, they can stop blaming themselves—or their diets—and start managing symptoms the right way.”

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FAQs on women's digestive health

1. At what age do women typically start experiencing constipation due to hormonal changes?
Constipation in women can often start as early as age 35 due to hormonal changes.

2. How do hormonal fluctuations affect digestion in women?
Hormonal fluctuations, especially changes in oestrogen and progesterone, can slow down gut motility, affecting how food moves through the digestive tract.

3. Why do women experience constipation and bloating before their periods?
In the days leading up to menstruation, shifting hormones can cause constipation, bloating, or even cramping.

4. How does pregnancy affect digestion and bowel movements?
During pregnancy, rising progesterone levels relax the muscles in the body, including the digestive system, slowing things down. The pressure from the growing uterus and iron supplements can also contribute to constipation.

5. What digestive changes occur during menopause?
During menopause, declining oestrogen levels can lead to more frequent constipation or slower digestion. Muscle tone weakens, metabolism drops, and pelvic floor strength may reduce, complicating bowel movements further.

6. What are some safe solutions for constipation during pregnancy?
Under medical supervision, gentle laxatives or stool softeners can be a safe and effective solution for constipation during pregnancy.

7. How can women manage gut health effectively through different life stages?
Long-term gut health depends on good habits like fibre-rich diets, hydration, and movement. Curative tools like stool softeners or laxatives can help during hormonally active phases but should be used with guidance and balance.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.