Is it normal to have diarrhea and stomach aches on your period?

Yes, it's totally normal to have diarrhea and stomach aches when you're on your period. It might sound weird, but a lot of people get that.

Okay so, your body makes these things called prostaglandins right before and during your period. They help your uterus cramp up and shed its lining, which is how you have a period. But sometimes, these prostaglandins can travel to your bowels and make them cramp up too, which causes diarrhea and tummy aches. It's basically your body just doing its thing, but a little over-enthusiastically.

To help with the tummy aches and diarrhea, you can try some of the things that help with regular period cramps. Stuff like a heating pad on your stomach, drinking lots of water, and maybe trying some over-the-counter pain relievers if a grown-up says it's okay. Sometimes eating bland foods helps too, like toast or rice, until you feel better.

If your stomach aches or diarrhea are super bad, like if you can't go to school or do your normal stuff, or if you're worried about it, definitely tell a trusted grown-up. They can help you figure out what to do next.