Constipation, gender and age.

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 with advancing age and during different life stages. If you feel that constipation is a growing problem in your life, don't feel alone: many people have the same experiences as you might be having.

The menstrual cycle

The relationship between gender and constipation is quite complex. Female reproductive hormones have been shown to also have an effect on the movement of the muscles of the colon. However, while women regularly report changes in their digestion systems at particular times in their menstrual cycle, experts have recently concluded that the role of reproductive hormones is minimal in changing gut function during the menstrual cycle. The only exception is in the case of pregnancy, where it has been clearly shown that there is a link to reproductive hormones and constipation.1 If you suffer painful cramps, severe constipation or any unexpected bleeding at any time in your menstrual cycle, you should visit your healthcare professional immediately.

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 effect 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. 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. Menopause can happen quickly or take two to four years (some women experience ‘hot flushes’ into their 70's). Many women experience digestion problems during this time, as the sudden changes in hormone levels also effect the sensitive muscles of the colon. 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 on your life. Always consult your healthcare professional if you experience painful cramps, unexpected bleeding or severe constipation that does not respond to treatment.

Age

The simple process of aging can slow the effectiveness of the colon's muscles in both men and women. As we get older and less active, 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 role.1 Please refer to our Avoiding Constipation section for more tips for seniors. Also, the Treating Constipation section provides information about the safe and effective treatment, Dulcolax®.

Reference

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