Different probiotic foods work for different people, so it’s worth experimenting. Probiotic supplements are another research-backed option to support gut health. In addition to eating a well-balanced diet that includes gut-friendly foods, certain probiotics have been studied to benefit dermatological health. In fact, DS-01® includes strains studied to support healthy, clear-looking skin by way of the gut-skin axis. You might experience irregular periods for different reasons depending on the health conditions.
Probiotics are food and health products that contribute live, beneficial microbes to the populations within your gut and elsewhere, in order to strengthen those communities. They’re meant to prevent and treat dysbiosis — an imbalance or a deficit of beneficial microbes in your microbiome. When they work, the microbes take up residence on or in your body, adding to the populations already living there. Probiotic products contain select, beneficial types of microbes to add to the populations already living in your body. Many probiotics are oral supplements designed to be ingested into your gastrointestinal tract. Others are topical products that you can apply to your skin or to the mucous membranes inside your body cavities, like your nose or genitals.
As a licensed naturopathic physician who is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology, she takes an integrative approach in her clinical practice. A fierce patient advocate and completely dedicated to uncovering the root cause of hormonal imbalances, Dr. Brighten empowers women worldwide to take control of their health and their hormones. She is the best selling author of Beyond the Pill and Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth.
Probiotics have gained popularity in recent years for their potential health benefits, particularly for gut health. However, some women may wonder if taking probiotics can affect their menstrual cycle. Let’s explore whether probiotics can cause a late period.
What are Probiotics?
So, if you’re drinking alcohol very regularly or in large quantities, it could be one of the possible reasons your period is late. What you can consider a very late period will depend partially on your cycle. Studies show that gut microbiota can affect the level of sex hormones in the blood. For instance, alteration in FSH and estrogen level changes the menstrual patterns and make your periods lighter or heavier. Probiotics can massively affect your overall well-being, from gut functions to immunity to sexual/reproductive health. Hence, if you are using a probiotic supplement, you are highly likely to observe its effects on your periods.
Additional complaints were fatigue, weakness, disorientation, and restlessness. They suggested that this unique entity is an additional side effect of probiotic consumption. Their food application expanded earlier and on a larger scale compared to the sales in sachets, capsules, or other pharmaceutical preparations [17]. In fact, according to global market analysts, the global probiotic market size is predicted to exceed 3 billion US dollars by 2024 [20].
While the scientific community continues to investigate, individuals are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health based on a holistic approach. Yes, probiotics help regulate and metabolize estrogen, which supports female sex hormone balance and regular menstrual cycles. The benefits of probiotics for menstrual health reach far beyond hormonal balance. Many women suffer from persistent gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal cramps, bloating, and diarrhea during their periods. Department of Health and Human Services, almost 90 percent of women experience irregular menstrual cycles or uncomfortable period symptoms such as mood swings and abdominal cramps.
These beneficial bacteria can help regulate inflammation and promote a healthy gut, which can positively impact the body’s response to hormonal changes during menstruation. Additionally, probiotics may contribute to a healthier hormonal balance, leading to reduced severity or frequency of symptoms. Recent scientific research has uncovered the profound impact of gut health on various aspects of our well-being. The gut microbiome, a diverse community of bacteria residing in our digestive system, has been linked to immune function, mental health, and yes, even hormonal balance. This has led to the speculation that nurturing a healthy gut with probiotics could potentially influence menstrual cycles. Quite often patients consume probiotics while physicians encourage probiotic consumption, despite their potentially harmful effects.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy.
Do Probiotics Affect Menstrual Cycles?
There is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that probiotics directly cause a late period. While probiotics can influence various aspects of health, there is no research linking their consumption to menstrual irregularities.
Factors that Can Affect Menstrual Cycles
- Stress: High levels of stress can disrupt hormonal balance and potentially lead to a late period.
- Diet: Certain dietary habits can impact hormone levels and menstrual regularity.
- Medical Conditions: Underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause menstrual irregularities.
FAQs
- Can probiotics regulate menstrual cycles? While probiotics may support overall health, more research is needed to determine their direct impact on menstrual cycles.
- Should I be concerned about a late period while taking probiotics? If you are experiencing menstrual irregularities, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes.
In conclusion, there is no evidence to suggest that probiotics can cause a late period. While probiotics offer many health benefits, their influence on menstrual cycles is not well-established. If you are concerned about changes in your menstrual cycle, it is best to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to address any underlying issues.
