The Interconnection of Menopause, Constipation, IBS, and Prolapse with Dr. Kumkum Patel

In this episode, Jacqueline sits down with gastroenterologist Dr. Kumkum Patel to break down the taboo surrounding gut health and discuss all things "poop".

If you have dealt with lifelong constipation or IBS, and want to understand how it directly relates to perimenopause and menopause, this episode is for you.

Welcome to another episode of MENO with Jacqueline Buckingham, the authority on menopause, perimenopause, and wherever you are on the pause spectrum.

IN THIS EPISODE WE COVER:
➡️ The Train and Station Analogy: A breakdown of the three main structural and mechanical reasons behind constipation, comparing your digestive tract to a train traveling to its station.
➡️ The Enteric Nervous System: Exploring the trillions of nerves surrounding your bowel, the role of the vagus nerve, and how your "second brain" can put a death grip on your colon when triggered by stress or past trauma.
➡️ The Pelvic Floor Connection: How weak core muscles, inadequate propulsive force, and tight sphincter muscles can close off the "train station" and trap stool.
➡️ Potty Hacks and Mechanics: Why tools like the Squatty Potty are functionally effective, and how using a boba straw to mimic diaphragmatic breathing can help activate the vagus nerve to push poop out without straining.
➡️ Hormones and Motility: How the major loss of estrogen and progesterone during perimenopause and menopause slows down your gut motility and impacts pelvic floor compliance.
➡️ Prolapse and Rectoceles: An explanation of what a vaginal or rectal prolapse is, and how chronic straining can create an anterior rectocele pocket where stool gets trapped.
➡️ Advanced Medical Solutions: A discussion on why standard osmotic laxatives like Miralax don't fix peristalsis, and an introduction to prescription medications that target bowel receptors to wake up a sluggish colon.
➡️ Balancing Protein and Fiber: Why prioritizing a high-protein diet without chasing it with water and 30 grams of fiber will cause severe constipation, and how to easily sneak fiber back into your outline with chia seeds.
Resources
https://kumkumpatelmd.com/


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Disclaimer: MENO is for general information and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine in any way. MENO does not constitute professional health care services or medical advice. No doctor/patient relationship is formed as a result of this podcast. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user's own risk. The content of MENO is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard getting medical advice for any such medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any conditions.