Why menopause may cause diarrhea
Falling ovarian estrogen and progesterone are the dominant drivers of diarrhea during perimenopause and menopause. The mechanism differs by symptom but usually reflects loss of the tissue-specific effects estrogen exerts before menopause.
How common is this?
Prevalence estimates for menopausal diarrhea vary by cohort, but longitudinal studies suggest a meaningful share of women experience it during the transition. Data from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) are the most cited source.
Estimated monthly US search volume: 1,300/mo.
Treatment options
Treatment for menopausal diarrhea usually blends lifestyle changes, targeted non-hormonal therapy, and (when appropriate) hormone therapy. Discuss options with a clinician who is familiar with menopause care.
Providers we've reviewed that treat this concern (navigational only — editorial ranking, not medical endorsement):
- Joi Women's Wellness — clinician-led HRT platform with prescriber consult included in the monthly fee
- Hone Health (Women) — at-home hormone testing bundled with follow-up prescriber calls
- Hims & Hers (Menopause) — lower price point for baseline estradiol/progesterone regimens
Browse the full menopause provider catalogue or read our editorial methodology.
Related reading
Sources
- NAMSThe North American Menopause Society. The 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society. Menopause. 2022;29(7):767-794.
- ACOGAmerican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 141: Management of Menopausal Symptoms. Obstet Gynecol. 2014;123(1):202-216.
- NIHNational Institute on Aging. What Is Menopause? U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (updated 2024).