Can perimenopause cause gut issues?

[Thewholeshackshimmy]

When I was 25 I was diagnosed with IBS.
Since hitting my mid 40’s things have ramped up and gotten much worse (daily symptoms now in upper and lower guts) I have had endless tests and seen 6 gastroenterologists, the last one was last week.
Things have definitely been worse since mid 40’s and so has my anxiety so it’s a vicious cycle of anxiety/gut issues but I also wonder if hormones are contributing to this.
I get lots of acid, excessive burping, awful nausea like when pregnant, gurgling tummy, gas and flatulence. Sometimes diarrhoea sometimes quite constipated.
I also have uterine polyps and reoccurring ovarian cysts so wonder if my hormones are completely off.
I am due my third hysteroscopy next month to remove the polyps again and this time they want to put in a mirena which I’m not keen on but need to try it.
Is anyone else in peri and have had a worsening of digestive problems?

Hi, yes I have very similar symptoms to you. I’m 51 now and still trying to figure out what the cause of the digestive issues are. I’m now thinking I’ve developed a lactose intolerance and possibly a gluten intolerance but I’m not sure which or if both! I think you can develop intolerances as you get older. Has your GP done any intolerance testing on you? Mine just recommended following the Fodmap diet but I didn’t notice much improvement with that.

I had gut and anxiety issues, hugely, along with a boot load of other symptoms. HRT is a lifesaver.

Yes, I get vicious attacks of wind, which can be very painful. HRT has got this under good control. I still get a bit bloated and gurgly from time to time but nothing like as bad as it has been.

I had reflux every night I started taking HRT 10 days ago and no reflux since so it could be. I hadn’t linked it but it seems it might be linked.

Chabbylis I do follow the low fodmap diet but like you I don’t have much success with it. I definitely can not tolerate diary. I have had tests for coeliac which have come back clear.
Aquamarine1029, Spodge, pinkcattydude Thank you, I will look into hrt.

I had exactly the same and had an early menopause. I was also diagnosed with an under active thyroid around the same time and now I'm on meds for this my gut issues have really improved. I avoid gluten and lactose which has helped too. Intermittent fasting to rest my gut is a lifesaver.

I developed lactose intolerance around the menopause. I had always been slightly intolerant but it really got a lot worse.

These pills have really helped me: www.lactojoy.de/en

I keep them in my bag and take one when needed. They're amazing.

Following! I think so yes op.

Yes gut issues, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation

Limiting milk and bread

Fluctuating across the month