The facts about constipation

Research shows that women suffer from constipation more frequently than men, and that older people suffer more than younger people. Many women experience increasing problems with constipation as they get older; a topic that will be discussed in this section.

The menstrual cycle
The relationship between gender and constipation is quite complex. Female reproductive hormones have been shown to affect the peristaltic movement of the muscles of the colon. Whilst the exact details of this are not completely understood, it is a fact that many women regularly experience constipation during their menstrual cycle.

If you are suffering from constipation during your menstrual cycle, you may find it useful to refer to our "Treating Constipation" section for tips on how to minimise any negative effects on your lifestyle.

Please note that if you suffer painful cramps, severe constipation or any unexpected bleeding at any time in your menstrual cycle, it is very important that you visit your health care professional.

Pregnancy
Almost all pregnant women experience changes in their digestive system. This is due to the effects of special hormones that are produced during pregnancy. These hormones prevent the contraction of the muscles of the uterus, but they also affect the muscles of the colon. This often slows peristalsis and leads to constipation. If you are pregnant, please refer to our "Treating constipation" section for tips on keeping a healthy digestion during this very important time.

Perimenopause
Constipation is often experienced by women in perimenopause (the period before the actual menopause). Perimenopause begins when a woman's oestrogen levels start to decline. Although this decline usually begins in a woman's late 30's or early 40's, some women can begin to experience perimenopausal symptoms in their early 30's. The average length of perimenopause is five to ten years, but it can take longer.

Menopause
During menopause, the levels of reproductive hormones produced by the body change quite dramatically. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age at 51. Many women experience digestion problems during this time, as the sudden changes in hormone levels affect the sensitive muscles of the colon also.

If you are approaching or experiencing menopause, you may find it helpful to refer to our "Avoiding constipation" and "Treating constipation" sections to minimise the effect of constipation. Please remember to speak to your health care professional if you experience painful cramps, unexpected bleeding or severe constipation that does not respond to treatment.

Age
The process of aging can slow the effectiveness of the colon's muscles in both men and women. As we get older, the nerves that control peristaltic movement may become less effective and the muscles lose strength.

You can minimise this effect with regular exercise: Constipation in older people/seniors seems to be linked to decreased physical activity. However, other factors such as diet and medications (which may have side effects that cause constipation) may also play a role¹.

Please refer to our Avoiding Constipation section for more tips for seniors. Also, the Treating Constipation section provides information about the safe and effective use of Dulcolax® products.

Find out More:
		Am I constipated
		Why am I constipated
		Constipation, gender and age
		Types of constipation

1. Müller-Lissner SA, Kamm MA, Scarpignato C, Wald A. Myths and Misconceptions About Chronic Constipation. American Journal of Gastroenterology 2005; www.amjgastro.com