Question for the ladies

about 6 months ago I went off my bc pill just to give my body a break. I was on a super low dose and never got my period. I was on these for the last 7 years (since after I had my son). Anyway once I stopped the pill I started getting my period again and they are TERRIBLE. I mean two days of agony w/ cramps and I have terrible diarrhea.

Has anyone else had this trouble w/ stopping bc pills and their period? I am going back on the pill. I can live w/ the cramps but the periods are really making my UC symptoms a ton worse. I see my gyno in Feb. and I will discuss w/ him too. But I am sure their recommendation would be going back on a low dose pill.

My Gyno always told me that having bowel issues right before getting your period is normal. I was on the pill and got my tubes tied when I was 40. My periods were horible, like yours.

I went off the pill 6+ years ago, got pregnant, had my daughter and then over a year later was diagnosed with UC after having symptoms for a year. Since having her and still being off BC I do have a day or two with looser stools but I did prior to UC but my period lasts much longer and the cramping is horrendous. I do not want to go back on BC but this just stinks.

^Is Mirena the IUD? Glad to hear it is "normal" to have looser stools before you get your period. Thanks for the input ladies!

Yep, it's "normal" to have looser bms prior to/at start of period due to the rise & then drop in progesterone level as part of one's monthly cycle. Sorry to read that you're having terrible cramping. Sometimes ye olde heating pad can relieve that-- at least while one is at home. / Old Hat (32 yrs with left-sided UC; presently in remission taking brandname Colazal)

As everyone else has stated, your period really messes with UC...but it's a normal response to the hormonal changes in your body. Frankly, I have always had bowel issues during that time, way before my UC. I joked to my husband last month that he should just punch me in the nose so then I'd be bleeding from all of my orifices! Shockingly, he did not find that funny :)

I, too, went off the pill 6 months ago under doctor's advice. I was having terrible headaches and she said the risk of stroke was too great. I struggled heavily with what to do, as my family is complete. I opted to have the "essure" method. It is like a tubal ligation, but SO much better. It took undere 1/2 hour performed in my doctor's office (not hospital), a light sedation (not general). It is non abortive. The doc places a coil in your tubes and your body scars over them. Three months later they do a dye test to make sure it's worked.

Now, I'm 48 and still have my period like a clock. However, it's only 1 bad day. The second two are easy. I really wish I had had this procedure done years ago. I like being hormone free, especially with all of my "new" UC meds. Oh, the joys of womanhood~ Good luck

~Cita

Hi Pink
Definitely don't do it yet if you're open to one more child. It is not reversible. I have had NO side effects. It was so much easier than the tubals I've seen. Totally covered by my insurance too. I could kick myself for not having done it sooner...my "baby" is 12 and I was definitely done with the 3rd. Good luck!
~Cita