IBS is a large expression for many bowel-related conditions. I've had it since 1998, it almost killed me [long story short]. Basically I have the slow transit version; my GP gave me Colpermin peppermint capsules as well as Motillium to ease transit. The idea being that I swallowed them within an hour of eating my main meals. I was better within 5 days though it took 3 months B4 the bowel settled completely.
I also eat little and often which seems to help. From the age of 11 my bowel hadn't been filled properly, so the spasm had slowed completely. Gurgling may be a sign that the gut isn't full enough !
During my menstruating years I found that 10 mins B4 a bleed began, I would have to rush to the loo: no arguments
![Angry >:(](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/angry.gif)
even if a period wasn't due. Definitely hormonal and I guess that yours is probably related. Now it's slow transit with the feeling of needing to 'go' all the while
![Undecided :-\](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/undecided.gif)
but fortunately, no painful spasms.
As peri arrived my periods waxed and waned for years: would disappear completely then return for a few months 'regularly'
![Roll Eyes ::)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/rolleyes.gif)
. For 2-3 years until I noticed in 2002 that that they had disappeared completely . Apart from dry skin and vaginal atrophy, I've been more or less fine since.
Don't despair.