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Constipation in Women

Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints and it has been estimated that at least 4.5 million people, two thirds of them women, suffer constipation that is frequent and problematic enough to require medical attention.

The bowel frequency of women is generally less than that of men. (1) Studies have been done that suggest that the majority of women have bowel movements no more often than every other day. (2) It may be that there is a range of normal, from three times per week to three times per day.

Konsyl fiber products are recommended by doctors and may help.

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All studies are in agreement that significantly more women than men report constipation and that the prevalence increases with age. In 1989, an analysis on national data reported that the prevalence of frequent or chronic constipation was about 2%. (3) Constipation was three times more common in women and after age 65, it rose to 8% in women and 4% in men. In 1990, the first National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reported a higher incidence in the general population of 12.8% with the ratio of women to men being more than 2 to 1 (18.2% vs 7%). (4)

Pregnant women may have greater problems, as many as 38%, although there is not good research in this area. The majority of the problems are in the third trimester and often persist for several months. Pregnancy and vaginal delivery may also have long lasting adverse effects on bowel function by weakening the pelvic floor muscles.

Signs and Symptoms of Constipation

Causes of Constipation in Women

There are some possible explanations as to why women have a higher incidence of constipation. Pelvic floor dysfunction after pregnancy could be an explanation for some of the cases. Longer transit times have been noted in the third trimester and during the luteal phase when progesterone levels are high. Other hormonal influences may influence physiological changes in water absorption, peristalsis (rippling motion of muscles in the digestive tract), and transit time. Psychological differences may also be a source of the higher incidence in women. Depression, more common in women, is also more common in women with other bowel problems such as irritable bowel syndrome.(5)

The colon (large intestine) absorbs excess water while forming waste products. Muscle contractions remove the waste from the rectum. When these natural contractions are interrupted or disturbed, waste materials move slowly. This causes the colon to absorb too much water, resulting in constipation. Many factors can cause constipation, such as:

Treatment and Prevention of Constipation

Fortunately, in most cases, constipation can be treated and prevented easily by making a few lifestyle changes, including eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water and exercising.

Example of a treatment plan for mild uncomplicated constipation: (try for 2 to 3 months before adding other therapies):

Your doctor may recommend a stimulant laxative such as SennaPrompt for overnight relief, followed by a daily routine of psyllium fiber such as Konsyl Original or Konsyl Easy Mix to maintain regularity.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a physician.

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Sources:

(1.) Heaton K, Radvan J, Cripps H, et al. Defecation frequency and timing, and stool form in the general population: a prospective study. Gut. 1992; 33:818-824.
(2.) Toglia M. Pathophysiology of anorectal dysfunction. Obstet Gynecal Clin North Am. 1998; 25:771-780.
(3.) Sonnenberg A, Koch T. Epidemiology of constipation in the United States. Dis Colon Rectum. 1989;32:1-8.
(4.) Sandier R, Jordan M, Shelton B. Demographic and dietary determinants of constipation in the US population. Am J Public Health. 1990;80:185-289.
(5.) Hudson T, "Constipation in women" - Women's Health Update, Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, June 2003.

Learn how Konsyl Fiber and Supplements can help with other conditions:
Constipation | Constipation in Women | Hemorrhoids | Diverticulitis | Diabetes | Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | Pregnancy | Cholesterol & Heart Disease | Colon Health | Weight Management