A Provider’s Perspective: Four Common GI Issues in Women
A Provider’s Perspective: Four Common GI Issues in Women
Anyone can have digestive issues, and in the field of gastroenterology (or GI), we treat all kinds of these irregularities in our day-to-day practice. In our experience, these are some of the most common GI issues we see specifically in women.
- Constipation is infrequent and hard bowel movements that can cause belly cramping. It can happen because of not having enough fiber or water in your diet, lack of exercise, stress, medication, or travel that takes you outside of your normal routine. It is also linked to certain conditions, such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. Because a woman’s colon is slightly longer than that of a man, and is also more cramped (it competes for space with the reproductive organs), it empties more slowly and it is more difficult for food to navigate through the digestive process.
- Bloating is when your belly feels stuffed, swollen, or filled with gas. It can happen because of dietary habits such as eating too fast, consuming a lot of fatty or high fiber foods, or drinking carbonated beverages. Some women experience bloating before and during their menstrual cycle, as well as throughout pregnancy.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) occurs when the colon contracts more slowly or quickly than normal. This can cause abdominal pain, bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, and mucus in stool. While there is no known definitive cause for IBS, stress as well as the hormonal factors that women experience can aggravate the symptoms.
- Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum that may cause itching, bleeding, swelling, prolapse, or leakage. Many women experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy, though they can occur in any adult, at any time. Other things that may trigger hemorrhoids are a lack of fiber in your diet, sitting for extended periods of time on the toilet, and improper lifting.
While also taking these things into consideration, you should follow a generally healthy lifestyle to help maintain and foster optimal digestive health and wellness. If you continue to experience GI issues, you should seek the care of a medical professional.
GAP is a gastroenterology practice with locations in Winston-Salem, Kernersville, and Clemmons. Visit gapgi.com or call (336) 448-2GAP to schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider.
