All adults can suffer from digestive issues. However, there are some conditions that are more common in women than in men. To recognize National Women’s Health Week happening this month from May 14 through May 20, we’re dedicating our May blog post to the common gastrointestinal (GI) issues faced by women.

Which Digestive Issues Are More Common In Women?

The main gastrointestinal problems seen more commonly in women include:

  • Celiac Disease
  • Constipation
  • Gallstones
  • Gastroparesis
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Why Do They Affect Women More?

The reasons that these conditions happen in women more than men is most likely due to structural and hormonal differences between men and women, along with the effects of pregnancy and childbirth.

For example, the pelvic floor can be weakened by pregnancy and childbirth, uterine conditions such as endometriosis, or lower estrogen levels around menopause (all of which only affect females). Another possible cause is chronic constipation, which women also suffer from more than men.

Regarding an issue with gallstones, it is usually due to hormone production. Estrogen (which women produce more of than men) raises the cholesterol level found in bile. Too much cholesterol in the bile causes slower gallbladder movement: a major factor in gallstone formation. As a result, women taking estrogen via birth control or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be at a higher risk for developing gallstones.

What Can Women Do To Prevent Digestive Issues?

While you can’t change your digestive system’s structure or your sex hormones, there are a number of things that women can do to maintain optimal GI health and hopefully avoid many of these common digestive issues.

Our top tips for maintaining a healthy digestive system are below.

  • Manage stress. This one is at the top of our list because stress can play a major role in digestive issues, but it is one of the most overlooked factors.
  • Eat a nutritionally balanced, high-fiber diet. Aim for 25 grams of fiber per day.
  • Avoid:
    • Any foods that trigger gastrointestinal symptoms. Common culprits are dairy, gluten or gas-producing foods.
    • Processed foods, artificial sweeteners and too much sugar.
  • Eat slower, and chew food thoroughly.
  • Drink plenty of water daily.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Limit alcohol intake.
  • Stay physically active.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.

The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C. treats multiple conditions and diseases of the GI tract. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. Call (318) 631-9121 or visit gis.md/appointment-request to schedule an appointment.