IBS has become worse during Perimenopause, is there a connection?

[Thetoasterhasbroken]

I am 49 and have been suffering from Perimenopause symptoms for the last 4-5 years.
During this time, my IBS symptoms (I have had this for 24 years) has also become so very much worse and I wonder if there is a connection with hormones during peri and digestive/gut issues?
I have had endless tests and tried everything recommended for IBS ( low fodmap, gluten free, diary free, basic diet, IBS meds, hypnotherapy etc) but am wondering if HRT would help calm my awful guts?
Has anyone had issues with their tummies during this time of their lives? It’s becoming really miserable.

Well, I believe perimenopause or hormones at my age (44) now trigger IBS in me (never had it before), since I was 42. So I think there probably is a connection but my GP wasn't massively forthcoming about it.

DorritLittle my GP is the same, I just can not get him to acknowledge the connection. Then again, he won’t even acknowledge that I’m even in peri, even though I have so many symptoms!

Well, I believe perimenopause or hormones at my age (44) now trigger IBS in me (never had it before)

Same here. I'm pretty sure I've read things about hormonal changes affecting the digestive system, OP. GPs are notoriously lacking in knowledge about the menopause.

It's ridiculous that GPs are so useless about something which affects half the population! I realised for myself a few weeks later that it related to hormones by looking at my calendar. So helpful

I am seriously considering changing surgeries as I am getting nowhere with my gp, it’s beyond frustrating.

Yes there is a connection related to hormonal changes during perimenopause. It’s mentioned here, HRT might help balance-menopause.com/uploads/2021/09/Bloating-and-bowel-problems-in-the-menopause.pdf

Yes I was diagnosed with IBS by a gastro specialist and she told me it was definitely linked to hormones. Let's face it, women have been having the trots at the beginning of their periods forever!!

My IBS definitely settled down once I started on HRT. Just tell your GP you're having hot flushes and can't sleep and ask them to put you on HRT. No need to persuade them that it'll help your IBS

Since perimenopause I find more and more foods are upsetting my stomach - foods that previously were absolutely fine. I have seen several lists of menopause symptoms which list digestive issues, although no mention of it on the NHS site

Not perimenopausal, but my IBS always since my periods started as a kid, tracked my menstrual cycle, so I'd think it's possible.