The Impact of GI Disorders on Women’s Mental Health

Much research has been conducted about the hidden connection between gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and mental health. For women, the connection can be even more profound. This article uncovers the connection, why women may be more prone to experience GI disorders and mental health conditions at the same time, and what women can do to better control their conditions and to live a more healthful life.

The prevalence of GI disorders in women

The American Gastroenterological Association estimates that 60 to 70 million Americans suffer from GI disorders severe enough to disrupt their daily lives. Studies show that three out of four women experience GI symptoms at least once a month compared to just 57% of men. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is two to six times more common in women, and women are more apt to experience frequent nausea and chronic constipation than men.

One reason GI issues are more prevalent in women is that women are believed to have genetically more sensitive GI tracts, and their stomach contents may empty more slowly than men, which can lead to bloating and nausea. Hormonal fluctuations from pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause are also thought to play a role.

Mental health challenges faced by women with GI disorders

The chronic pain and discomfort that women with GI disorders experience have a significant impact on their mental health in ways other than physiological. Chronic diarrhea, stomach pain, irritable bowels, vomiting, and nausea may cause women to avoid social situations. This can lead to isolation and stress, which can make their GI and mental health conditions worse.

While not widely researched, some studies suggest that “female gender, age, fatigue, disease activity, and steroid use were associated with increased body image dissatisfaction, which was also associated with decreased quality of life.”

What is the gut-brain connection?

A communication pathway exists between the brain and the gut, a type of “bidirectional neural, endocrine, and immune pathway” known as the gut-brain axis (GBA). Essentially, the brain and the gut are “talking” to each other continuously.

The purpose of the GBA is to “integrate functional activity in the gut and to link the emotional and cognitive centers in the brain with the peripheral functions of the intestine, along with their mechanisms.” These functions include “satiety, appetite, immune activation, intestinal permeability, enteroendocrine signaling, and enteric reflexes.” 

Strategies for management and support

Several lifestyle changes can help women better manage their GI symptoms. The first is to avoid eating foods commonly known to cause gas. These include apples, asparagus, beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, dairy products, mushrooms, onions, peaches, pears, prunes, and products made with wheat. Limiting fatty foods and avoiding carbonated beverages, chewing gum, and sweeteners can also help. Exercise and eating more slowly are other strategies, such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight. 

Several over-the-counter medications can help, but women are encouraged to discuss these with their gastroenterologist. Every woman is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Certain medications can help with gas, while others can help with heartburn, and still others for GERD, etc. Rather than attempting to figure it out on their own and treat their symptoms with multiple over-the-counter medications, the number one most essential step women can take to get control of their GI disorder is to contact a GI specialist who can help guide them to a path of health and wellness. It is vital that they choose a practitioner who takes a holistic approach that also includes mental healthcare.

Support groups can be immensely helpful to women living with GI disorders. These groups can be found in many communities and are often centered on specific disorders like Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis. Women can search online to find a group in their community. Their gastroenterologist may also have a list of resources to help.

The journey to better mental and physical health

GI disorders are complex, disruptive, and immensely stressful, with physiological, psychological, and sociological implications. Recognizing the interconnectedness of these factors is vital to achieving good mental and physical health and optimal quality of life.

Photo credit: Aleksei Morozov, Getty Images

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