7 Common Causes Of Constipation In Women

Constipation is a frustrating and uncomfortable experience that disrupts your digestive flow. It's characterised by infrequent bowel movements (having fewer than three stools a week), hard and dry stools, straining during bowel movements, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. While constipation can affect anyone, research suggests it's twice as common in women compared to men. 

Several factors contribute to this. Hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life cycle, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact digestion and muscle contractions in the intestines. Anatomical factors, like a weaker pelvic floor in some women, can make it harder to complete a bowel movement. This blog dives into the 7 common causes of constipation in women and explores ways to manage them for a smoother digestive journey. Keep reading!

Table Of Contents

1. What Are The Causes Of Constipation In Females?

2. What Causes Severe Constipation In Elderly Women?

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

What Are The Causes Of Constipation In Females?

The following are the causes of constipation in women:

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal changes, especially those associated with menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can affect a woman's digestive system. Estrogen and progesterone make changes in the body and affect the digestive system.

High progesterone levels, especially during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy, can slow bowel movement and cause constipation. Similar to how hormonal changes during pregnancy might impair digestive system function, postmenopausal women are more likely to experience constipation.

2. Diet And Hydration

Diet influences digestive tract management. Women who eat a diet low in fibre may become constipated. Fibre adds bulk to stool and helps it pass through the colon. 

Drinking enough water is another critical factor. Proper hydration is essential for soft stools and easier passage. Women who don't drink enough water or consume too many diuretics, such as caffeine and alcohol, are at risk of constipation.

Also Read: 11 Best Constipation Relief Foods To Promote Healthy Digestion!

3. Physical Inactivity

One established risk factor for constipation is a sedentary lifestyle. Exercise stimulates the digestive system to help stool pass through the colon. Women who lead a sedentary lifestyle can cause discomfort in the intestines, leading to constipation. Regular exercise, including walking, running, and yoga, can help maintain a healthy digestive system.

4. Medications And Supplements

Some medications and supplements can cause constipation in women. Women who include opioids, antidepressants, antacids containing calcium or lead, iron supplements, and some antihypertensive medications may suffer from constipation regularly.

These medications can slow digestion or change the electrolyte balance, making it harder to digest food. Women taking this medication should consult their doctor for other treatments or support to relieve constipation.

5. Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic floor dysfunction is another important cause of constipation in women. Conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, rectocele, and dyssynergia (impairment of pelvic organ function) can affect bowel function. 

These conditions are often caused by childbirth, ageing, or pelvic surgery. Women with pelvic inflammatory disease may experience problems with bowel movements, such as straining or feeling like bowel movements are failing.

6. Psychological Factors

Stress, anxiety, and depression can affect the digestive system. The gut-brain connection means that stress on the brain can affect the digestive system and cause constipation. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help relieve constipation.

7. Hypothyroidism

Constipation is a typical side effect of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones are vital for controlling the digestive system and metabolism. Lack of these hormones can slow digestion and cause constipation. Women with unexplained constipation and symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain should have their thyroid function checked.

Also Read: Magnesium For Constipation: Benefits, Efficacy And Side Effects!

What Causes Severe Constipation In Elderly Women?

For older women, severe constipation is a common and distressing condition that is affected by many factors. Ageing naturally slows digestion and reduces physical activity, and changes in diet (such as low fibre and water intake) can cause serious problems again. Medicines often prescribed to older women, including opioids, antidepressants, and calcium channel blockers, can make constipation worse.

Management includes modifying the diet to include more fibre and fluids, encouraging regular physical activity, and reviewing medications with a doctor to rule out constipation. Sometimes, stool softeners, laxatives, or other medications may be needed. Addressing underlying health issues and providing a supportive environment is critical to improving gut health and overall quality of life in older women.

Also Read: 6 Best At-Home Ayurvedic Treatment For Constipation To Give You Quick Relief!

Dietitian's Recommendation

As a dietitian, I recommend consuming a mixture of chia seeds, ginger, and Ajwain water twice daily for constipation. This concoction smoothens the bowels and helps manage constipation. Prebiotics like yoghurt can also help reduce constipation. You can even opt for ToneOp Care's Isab go sachets for instant relief.

Dt Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Constipation in women can be caused by a combination of hormonal, dietary, lifestyle, and physical factors. Addressing root causes through nutritional changes, increased physical activity, hydration, and stress management can help prevent and reduce constipation. You must consult a doctor to determine the underlying health condition and receive appropriate severe or severe pain treatment. Understanding the specific causes of constipation in women, strategic plans can be used to promote better health and overall health.