Changes in menstruation
- Thread starter loveumore
- Start date
Hi,
I've experienced some changes due to (especially emotional) stress and (rapid) wight loss even though I'm on the pill, which means that there are definitely things that are able or some of them even likely to overturn your hormones and put them on a roller coaster ride...
Have there been any significant changes in your life for the last two months?
Couldn't you go to some clinic and have your blood/hormon level tested?
Hope everything turns out fine!
I've experienced some changes due to (especially emotional) stress and (rapid) wight loss even though I'm on the pill, which means that there are definitely things that are able or some of them even likely to overturn your hormones and put them on a roller coaster ride...
Have there been any significant changes in your life for the last two months?
Couldn't you go to some clinic and have your blood/hormon level tested?
Hope everything turns out fine!
SweetErika
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It could be a gazillion things, and it sounds like you need a full hormonal and physical work-up. I can say that I know a lot of women, myself included, who have on-off periods, sometimes or all the time. (Although I might be a lousy example because I do have multiple hormone/endocrine disorders. 
)
If you're not having new pain and don't sense it's an emergency, you can probably stand to wait for a couple of months. (BTW, have you tried Planned Parenthood/Other Women's Health Clinics and even urgent care centers that also provide primary care? Obviously it's best to see a GYN, but any provider can order blood tests, ultrasounds, etc., and then you'd go into your gyno w/ a head start.)
In the meantime, perhaps you could try some dietary and lifestyle changes. For instance, Flaxseed, Borage Seed and Evening Primrose oils can have a normalizing effect on our hormones and cycles. And if you think you have symptoms of an estrogen deficiency, you might try adding more soy to your diet in foods and supplements. Look up Chasteberry, too. Thyroid problems can cause menstrual problems, so you might look into those and start charting your temperatures. Also, are you getting enough Vitamin D (the FDA standards are WAY too low according to every doc I've talked to recently)? If you're still smoking heavily, try to cut back, switch to water or herbal tea instead of beer or coffee or soda, make sure you're getting a balanced diet and do whatever you can for exercise (like maybe yoga for people with pain/injuries/disabilities, an exercise ball, using resistance bands, the exercises from "Sit and Be Fit" on PBS, etc., would work for you). Note any medications, diet, supplement and lifestyle changes so when you do get to the doc, you'll be ahead of the game.
Anyway, my point is that if you have to wait, use that time wisely to research and see how making some healthy changes makes you feel so you and the doc don't have to start from scratch when your appointment finally comes. And, who knows, maybe your self-care will result in your cycle normalizing itself and/or just feeling better overall.
)If you're not having new pain and don't sense it's an emergency, you can probably stand to wait for a couple of months. (BTW, have you tried Planned Parenthood/Other Women's Health Clinics and even urgent care centers that also provide primary care? Obviously it's best to see a GYN, but any provider can order blood tests, ultrasounds, etc., and then you'd go into your gyno w/ a head start.)
In the meantime, perhaps you could try some dietary and lifestyle changes. For instance, Flaxseed, Borage Seed and Evening Primrose oils can have a normalizing effect on our hormones and cycles. And if you think you have symptoms of an estrogen deficiency, you might try adding more soy to your diet in foods and supplements. Look up Chasteberry, too. Thyroid problems can cause menstrual problems, so you might look into those and start charting your temperatures. Also, are you getting enough Vitamin D (the FDA standards are WAY too low according to every doc I've talked to recently)? If you're still smoking heavily, try to cut back, switch to water or herbal tea instead of beer or coffee or soda, make sure you're getting a balanced diet and do whatever you can for exercise (like maybe yoga for people with pain/injuries/disabilities, an exercise ball, using resistance bands, the exercises from "Sit and Be Fit" on PBS, etc., would work for you). Note any medications, diet, supplement and lifestyle changes so when you do get to the doc, you'll be ahead of the game.
Anyway, my point is that if you have to wait, use that time wisely to research and see how making some healthy changes makes you feel so you and the doc don't have to start from scratch when your appointment finally comes. And, who knows, maybe your self-care will result in your cycle normalizing itself and/or just feeling better overall.
Shadowann2
My give-a-damn's busted
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Like the other people said, it could be a million different things.
When my period when wonky on me when I was 23, I eneded up being diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome. But I had a lot of other symptoms besides a haywire period.
The only way to really know is to get into a doctor and run tests. Wish I could be more Helpful, but when talking about period problems, there are just so many things it could be.
When my period when wonky on me when I was 23, I eneded up being diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome. But I had a lot of other symptoms besides a haywire period.
The only way to really know is to get into a doctor and run tests. Wish I could be more Helpful, but when talking about period problems, there are just so many things it could be.
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Thanks for the suggestions, Erika, and I'm sorry about those disorders you have. They must totally suck.
I could make some dietary changes, but exercising is a bit difficult for me because of my legs and fatigue. I wish I could take some addorral but can't because I have a heart condition. That would be really nice about now. Just one!
With Planned Parenthood, it's the same deal, unless you think you might be pregnant. If you think you have an infection, they just tell you to buy some Monistat. It's crazy. People could have a more serious condition but you have to wait months to get in for an appt.
I could make some dietary changes, but exercising is a bit difficult for me because of my legs and fatigue. I wish I could take some addorral but can't because I have a heart condition. That would be really nice about now. Just one!
With Planned Parenthood, it's the same deal, unless you think you might be pregnant. If you think you have an infection, they just tell you to buy some Monistat. It's crazy. People could have a more serious condition but you have to wait months to get in for an appt.
fire_breeze
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As many have noted, it can be a myriad of things, even stress. Even though you said that you are used stress and pain, and that you are off the harsh treatment, your body can be still reacting to it, a sort of delayed reaction. Every body reacts differently to stress, at different times.
Do you have a GP or other health care professional that you can see? You just may have to be reassured that it's nothing. Have you also tried explaining your situation to the secretary? When I had my period continuously for 6 weeks, despite being on the Pill, I went in, told them the situation and got an appointment for the next week. It may take several attempts. Also, perhaps you can get an appointment with an gynaecologist at a pregnancy centre. That's what a friend of mine did to get an abnormality checked out when her gyno was booked solid - they had space available.
It really sounds to me that your body is overtly stressed. It's a vicious cycle, I know. Your body starts to act weird, you get stressed, and the oddness acts odder. Repeat. If you can't see someone, I strongly encourage you to follow SweetErika's advice, and take care of yourself.
Good luck
Do you have a GP or other health care professional that you can see? You just may have to be reassured that it's nothing. Have you also tried explaining your situation to the secretary? When I had my period continuously for 6 weeks, despite being on the Pill, I went in, told them the situation and got an appointment for the next week. It may take several attempts. Also, perhaps you can get an appointment with an gynaecologist at a pregnancy centre. That's what a friend of mine did to get an abnormality checked out when her gyno was booked solid - they had space available.
It really sounds to me that your body is overtly stressed. It's a vicious cycle, I know. Your body starts to act weird, you get stressed, and the oddness acts odder. Repeat. If you can't see someone, I strongly encourage you to follow SweetErika's advice, and take care of yourself.
Good luck
I had a tubal ligation when I was 28. I've read a few sources that say that having a ligation can mess with one's periods. I've got pretty much the same thing you describe going on with my periods (only for me it's been going on nearly a year, and doesn't it drive me insane when my period comes and goes like that), and have been told that it's perimenopause. It seems likely, given your age and the fact that you've had your tubes tied, that that could be the case for you as well.
That said, though, I'm not a doctor, don't play one on TV (or online), and if you're concerned you should certainly get yourself checked out.
That said, though, I'm not a doctor, don't play one on TV (or online), and if you're concerned you should certainly get yourself checked out.
My wife was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome after months of having problems similar to yours. My suggestion is definitely get into a Dr. A.S.A.P. If you can't get in right away, try going to a hospital or something. I'm not saying you have the same thing as my wife, but whatever it is could be something very serious. Also, the E.R. doctors may be able to get you in quicker to see someone if they believe it's something serious. I hope all turns out well for you.
hisgypsy
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I suppose the doctors always tell us if there is ever a change in anything it should be looked at. After having said that, if I understand you correctly, you aren't having pain, discomfort, or anything else, other than a change in the cycle itself, right?
You should most certainly be seen, and hopefully you have an annual exam anyway, which ladies...everyone should whether we want to or not...so hopefully you already have a gynecologist. Years ago I found it hard to get in to my doctor, and found that his Nurse Practitioner saw patients and so I switched to her. I love her, she's more in tune with patients as she's a woman, but even better, she takes the time she needs with you.
Anyway, I got off the point. I would say no, it has nothing to do with a tubal ligation. And no, it most likely has nothing to do with perimenopause, which is what comes before menopause. I experienced changes in my periods and it turned out to be cysts. Those lovely things can play havoc with your cycle. And for the most part are harmless, so don't get yourself in a tizzy needlessly.
BUT, no matter, you still need to have a visit to the doctor and you should be on the phone trying to get in at their earliest possible time.
Good luck! And let everyone know how it turns out.
You should most certainly be seen, and hopefully you have an annual exam anyway, which ladies...everyone should whether we want to or not...so hopefully you already have a gynecologist. Years ago I found it hard to get in to my doctor, and found that his Nurse Practitioner saw patients and so I switched to her. I love her, she's more in tune with patients as she's a woman, but even better, she takes the time she needs with you.
Anyway, I got off the point. I would say no, it has nothing to do with a tubal ligation. And no, it most likely has nothing to do with perimenopause, which is what comes before menopause. I experienced changes in my periods and it turned out to be cysts. Those lovely things can play havoc with your cycle. And for the most part are harmless, so don't get yourself in a tizzy needlessly.
BUT, no matter, you still need to have a visit to the doctor and you should be on the phone trying to get in at their earliest possible time.
Good luck! And let everyone know how it turns out.
SpecialKay62
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Hmmmm
I think you've already gotten pretty good advice! But what you describe, period coming and then not coming, is more aptly described as spotting before your period. At 36, this probably isn't a big deal. Expect a few changes now and well into your 40's before the big Change. I'd be more concerned about it if you were spotting between periods, mid-cycle. Don't panic, but do call your GYN and make an appointment. Good luck to you!!
I think you've already gotten pretty good advice! But what you describe, period coming and then not coming, is more aptly described as spotting before your period. At 36, this probably isn't a big deal. Expect a few changes now and well into your 40's before the big Change. I'd be more concerned about it if you were spotting between periods, mid-cycle. Don't panic, but do call your GYN and make an appointment. Good luck to you!!
dashd
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Tho I'm not one of the ladies... and though I'm not a physician, I do have some background in medicine. Theere are many possible explanations. Stress, diet, nutrician, sleep and weight change are among the leading causes. I would suggest a muti vitamin balanced meals and adequate rest to start with. Your PAP test should be up to date and further blood work may be indicated.
Bandit58
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I'm in Australia so the medical system is different from that of the USA, but here the first port of call is the GP or medical clinic. They can order blood tests, scans, xrays, ultrasounds etc and you can get in fairly quickly to have these done. Then if further treatment is required you get referred to a specialist, you can usually be seen within a month or two.
I'm now 50, and have had problems with my cycle for the past 8 years. I've skipped cycles due to stress (and then ended up with the period from hell - 10 days of hemorrhaging and cramping and clots ). I've had really short cycles (18-21 days). I've been diagnosed with a 2cm (1in) fibroid which sometimes causes flooding even though I'm on hormonal contraception to regulate me and stop the heavy periods I was getting. I had a tubal ligation at 40 - I was told then that I MAY have trouble with my periods in the future.
I'm now 50, and have had problems with my cycle for the past 8 years. I've skipped cycles due to stress (and then ended up with the period from hell - 10 days of hemorrhaging and cramping and clots
). I've had really short cycles (18-21 days). I've been diagnosed with a 2cm (1in) fibroid which sometimes causes flooding even though I'm on hormonal contraception to regulate me and stop the heavy periods I was getting. I had a tubal ligation at 40 - I was told then that I MAY have trouble with my periods in the future.I also agree with what others have said. Many factors are to be considered when you have irregular periods. I've been having the same problem lately and I've seen a couple of doctors about it. I had to ask for a second opinion since the first doctor basically didn't help me at all.
The last two agreed on something. Changes in your period are due mainly to one thing, a hormonal deficiency. Now this can be caused by different things like a high level of stress, not getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet or being overweight, which was the problem in my case. I've been dieting for a couple of weeks, and the doctor said that things should go back to normal once I lose those extra pounds. The first thing my OB-Gyn did was check my hormone levels and he also checked if I had Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome for which you need to get a Transvaginal Ultrasound. Also, being on the pill could be another factor.
Anyways, I think you just need to see a doctor, cause in the end she/he'll be the one to give you an accurate diagnose. I was having this problem for a while and ignoring it and then when I started to worry and did some research about it online, I freaked out cause I had all the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. And it turned out to be just a weight issue. So don't start guessing and go see your doc as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to get some exercise, watch your diet, drink soy milk and try not to stress so much.
Good luck to you and I hope it's nothing serious.
The last two agreed on something. Changes in your period are due mainly to one thing, a hormonal deficiency. Now this can be caused by different things like a high level of stress, not getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet or being overweight, which was the problem in my case. I've been dieting for a couple of weeks, and the doctor said that things should go back to normal once I lose those extra pounds. The first thing my OB-Gyn did was check my hormone levels and he also checked if I had Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome for which you need to get a Transvaginal Ultrasound. Also, being on the pill could be another factor.
Anyways, I think you just need to see a doctor, cause in the end she/he'll be the one to give you an accurate diagnose. I was having this problem for a while and ignoring it and then when I started to worry and did some research about it online, I freaked out cause I had all the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. And it turned out to be just a weight issue. So don't start guessing and go see your doc as soon as possible. In the meantime, try to get some exercise, watch your diet, drink soy milk and try not to stress so much.
Good luck to you and I hope it's nothing serious.
