Constipation

Overview

Constipation can be incredibly frustrating. It often feels like a waiting game or a guessing game; what worked yesterday may not work today, and what helped someone else might not be effective for you.

Chronic constipation is defined as experiencing complex, infrequent, or incomplete bowel movements, quantified as having less than three spontaneous bowel movements per week, persisting for at least three months. Gastroenterologists typically classify constipation into primary or secondary causes, but in either case, it is a symptom of an underlying issue that warrants attention. The causes of constipation can vary widely. 

Often, women are referred for a colonoscopy to rule out any obstructions, but this does not necessarily address the root cause of the constipation. The concerns surrounding constipation are valid and can be quite troubling. Doctor visits can feel rushed, and the real issue often remains undiscovered. There is a notable correlation between constipation and a history of physical or emotional stressors, which are frequently overlooked. Patients may find themselves quickly prescribed laxatives rather than having their lifestyle, stressors, and, importantly, de-stressors thoroughly reviewed.

Our gastrointestinal system thrives on regularity and requires nervous system support to facilitate movement, rest, and digestion. A properly functioning gut should exhibit peristalsis following the morning routine and shift into rest and digest mode at night. 

We must also pay attention to the end phase of defecation. In many cases, women experience difficulties with complete bowel movements, which could indicate a cyclical issue. Rectal disease or pelvic injuries can obstruct the passage of stool, leading to a backlog of peristalsis. Some women may need to apply pressure to the vagina or the area around the rectum to achieve a full bowel movement, a symptom often associated with pelvic floor dysfunction. This emphasizes the prevalence of pelvic floor issues that contribute to constipation in women.

Unfortunately, due to rushed appointments or limited resources, many women are not offered anorectal manometry, pelvic therapy, biofeedback therapy or gut-directed hypnotherapy which can be critical in addressing these issues effectively.

Constipation Causes

This is a list focusing on the root causes of constipation in women. It does not cover all possible mechanisms or causes of constipation, nor represent a comprehensive differential diagnosis for any disease.

• Chronic Toxic Stress
• Diabetes
• Hormone changes
  
• Hydration status
  
• Inflammation
  
• Irritable bowel syndrome
  
• Low fiber intake
  
• Medications
  
• Mineral status
  
• Obstruction
  
• Sedentary
  
• Thyroid abnormalities
  
• Trauma
  

Signs & Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
  
• Belly distention
  
• Bloating
  
• Brain fog
  
• Difficult defecation
  
• Difficulty evacuating
  
• Fatigue
  
• Hard bowel movements
  
• Headaches
  
• Infrequent bowel movements
  
• Nausea
  
• Pelvic pain
  
• Rectal pain

GutsyRx Treatments For Constipation

What is GutsyRx? GutsyRx is a private safe space to discuss constipation and alternative ways to get relief. GutsyRx is a dedicated gut and rectal health marketplace for women, offering integrative wellness products and personalized compounded prescriptions tailored to your unique gut challenges. Whether you prefer self-directed guidance as a guest or choose to join our membership, our lady specialist doctors will support you.  Membership consultations include personalized lifestyle-oriented protocols and a gut restoration program. Every GutsyRx product is curated, free from allergens, dyes, preservatives, and irritating FODMAPs, ensuring a gentle yet powerful approach to improving constipation. Start your journey to better gut health with GutsyRx today!