posted
I think I've asked this before, but I'll ask again
When I start my period (especially the first day) I get soft stool and really horrible intestinal pains from gas that last for hours. Simethicone tablets only do so much, and I've tried to cut out gassy foods (dairy and broccoli and the like) from my diet before I start, but it doesn't seem to make a drastic difference. I'm on a crew team so I'm getting heavy exercise regularly and my diet is pretty good. I know periods come with discomfort, but they shouldn't be agonizing!
I was wondering if oral contraceptives would make a difference? I know hormones during menstruation can mess with intestines and make trouble, do BCPs change that? I'm also on antibiotics, would that be a contributor?
Also, any tips for relief would be totally welcome :\
-------------------- “I thank God I was raised Catholic, so sex will always be dirty.” --John Waters Posts: 205 | From: Bay Area, CA | Registered: Oct 2007
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posted
Bowel issues with periods like this are really very common. BCP use can reduce those symptoms for some women, but don't for others.
In terms of your diet in the few days before your period, how are you eating? Are you trying to cut caffeine, alcohol, the gassy stuff, dairy, etc. at least a few days before and then the first day or two? Have you tried a fiber supplement or just eating lots of fiber in the few days before and the day of?
Do you have these symptoms at any other time? I ask because people with IBS can often find it's worse with periods.
-------------------- Heather Corinna, Executive Director & Founder, Scarleteen About Me • Get our book! Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead Posts: 63257 | From: An island near Seattle | Registered: May 2000
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Hey Snailshells, just to add to what Heather said... Do you get bad cramps during the beginning of your period as well? I have similar intestinal problems, and my doctor said that because the muscles are in the same group, cramps and bowel problems go hand in hand. Because of this, pain medication can relieve a lot of those problems too. Definitely talk to your doctor first about that though
I find that tea tends to help as well. Perhaps because it's just warm and soothing. And whatever you do, stay away from ketchup chips- learned my lesson with that one Posts: 206 | From: Canada | Registered: Mar 2008
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Pacing around and/or stretching your abdominal muscles while lying flat and/or lying on your stomach and arching your back (which will also stretch your abdomen) can relieve some cramping too. Also, heat. I make herbal tea to drink and put the hot mug on my stomach to relieve my cramps. And antibiotics kill bacteria, including good bacteria that are supposed to be in your large intestine, so in that sense, antibiotics can cause problems in your bowels. And this is why my mom always made me eat lots of yogurt whenever I'm on antibiotics (actually, all the time). Yogurt doesn't have fiber, but it has active cultures that are good for your guts AND it has calcium just like milk, but without the gassiness.
-------------------- "What's the point of wearing your favorite rocketship underpants if no one asks to see 'em?" Posts: 87 | From: Virginia | Registered: Mar 2008
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