Women's Gastrointestinal Health

The staff of the Gastroenterology/Hepatology Program understands women’s digestive disorders as well as their concerns.

Common GI Disorders in Women

Gastrointestinal disorders can be different in men and women. Certain diseases have complications specific to women. These disorders may cause embarrassment and prevent women from seeking medical care. 

Some disorders that occur more often than women than in men include: 

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Constipation
• Fecal incontinence
• Some gastrointestinal disorders, such as a rectocele, occur only in women. A rectocele is an abnormal bulging of the rectovaginal septum (a membrane between the rectum and vagina).

How Hormones Impact Women’s Gastrointestinal Health

Hormones may play a role in a women’s gastrointestinal health. During pregnancy, for example, gastrointestinal disorders are common among women. Certain functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract can be triggered or worsened by hormonal changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle. 

The decline in estrogen and progesterone production during and after menopause may also affect a women’s GI health, causing symptoms such as GI distress, indigestion, flatulence and nausea.

When to Seek Care for GI Issues  

Make an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist if you if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Persistent symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or abdominal pain that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments or dietary changes
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
• Blood in the stool or black, tarry stools
• Severe or worsening symptoms during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
• Chronic heartburn or indigestion that interferes with daily life
• Nausea or vomiting that lasts more than a few days
• A noticeable bulge or pressure in the pelvic area, which could indicate a rectocele or another pelvic floor disorder