Can menopause cause stomach problems? - Elite Hormone Health

Menopause can cause a variety of symptoms, and stomach problems are common complaints during this transitional time. Fluctuating hormones, especially declining estrogen levels, are believed to play a major role in gastrointestinal issues that arise during perimenopause and postmenopause. Some of the most frequently reported digestive problems associated with menopause include:

• Bloating and abdominal discomfort
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Estrogen helps regulate gut motility and digestion. As estrogen production in the ovaries declines leading up to and during menopause, the lining of the stomach and intestines also undergo changes. Lower estrogen allows for increased gas production in the intestines, which leads to bloating and other uncomfortable symptoms.

What Causes Menopause-Related Stomach Issues?

Fluctuating reproductive hormones impacts the gastrointestinal tract in various ways:

• Slowed digestion - Low estrogen slows the transit of food through the digestive tract, often leading to constipation. Food stays in the intestines longer, allowing more gas production and bloating.
• Increased stomach sensitivity - The lining of the stomach may become more susceptible to irritation during menopause due to estrogen changes. This can worsen issues like acid reflux or heartburn.
• Altered gut microbiota - Evidence shows that gut microbiota changes with menopause, with shifts in populations of bacteria. This can contribute to bowel changes like diarrhea/constipation and increase inflammation.
• Slowed metabolism - Declining hormones contributes to a slower metabolic rate during menopause. This can lead to weight gain, especially increased abdominal and visceral fat, which is associated with higher risk for IBS and other bowel problems.

In addition to hormonal influences, lifestyle factors like diet, weight gain, stress and sleep changes during the menopausal transition can worsen digestive issues. Managing these factors can help improve gut health.

Common Menopausal Stomach Problems

Some of the most bothersome stomach issues women face during menopause include:

Bloating

About 80% of women going through menopause report issues with a swollen, bloated belly. Bloating may be triggered by:

• Slowed digestion and intestinal gas
• IBS
• Food sensitivities like lactose intolerance
• Constipation

Acid reflux and heartburn

• At least 50% of postmenopausal women suffer from heartburn
• Lower esophageal sphincter relaxation allows stomach acid back up through the esophagus
• Can cause irritation, indigestion, pain

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Up to 55% higher risk of developing IBS during menopause
• Symptoms include cramping, constipation, diarrhea, gas
• Related to hormonal impacts on gut function and nerves

Constipation

* 90% higher incidence after menopause * Slowed colon function * Dehydration * Medications * Low fiber diets

Diarrhea

* Result of slowed motility (constipation) then faster transit * IBS * Food sensitivities like lactose intolerance

Testing and Treatment Options

If you develop new onset digestive troubles during perimenopause or after menopause, see your doctor to rule out any serious conditions. Testing may include:

• Physical exam
• Symptom review
• Blood tests to check for anemia and signals of inflammation
• Stool sample tests for blood or infections
• Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan if severe pain
  • Consider food allergy testing

Treatment approaches will vary based on the type and severity of your stomach issues. Some options include:

• Diet changes - Eat smaller, more frequent meals - choose foods high in fiber and low in fat, dairy and gas-producing compounds
• Probiotics and prebiotics - Supplements support healthy gut bacteria shown to help regulate bowel function and gastric symptoms
• Over-the-counter medications - Antacids, H2 blockers or PPIs to reduce reflux or heartburn; laxatives or stool softeners for constipation
• Prescription medications - In cases of severe IBS, diarrhea or constipation that impairs quality of life, medications may help regulate bowel function
• Bioidentical hormone therapy - Supplementing with a customized blend of estrogen and progestogens tailored a woman's specific hormone needs and symptom profile throughout perimenopause helps regulate hormone levels, which can improve digestive issues (more below)
• Alternative therapies like mind-body practices - Hypnosis, acupuncture and certain herbal remedies may complement other treatment approaches for stomach relief during menopause

We conduct comprehensive lab testing to accurately assess your ovarian reserve, estrogen and other hormone levels. Then we create fully customized bioidentical hormone therapy using unique pellet implants to restore optimal balance. Along with dietary guidance, our integrative protocols help 75% of women achieve complete relief from menopause digestive complaints. Consider booking a telehealth consult to explore whether our amenity-rich hormone balancing services are right for you. We empower women to reclaim their vitality during this transitional life phase.