[susaloh]

Hi there!The discussion seems to be on about IBS and birth control, so here's my question:I'm 42, I have got IBS (pain and sometimes D) and I've had mild PMS as long as I can remember. Since IBS got diagnosed two years ago I've completely changed my life and I've ruled out or got under control all possible triggers. I'm now living a fairly stress free life, I'm on an IBS safe (very restricted) diet and with numerous conventional and natural medications, fibre,etc, some of my symptoms are now under control (e.g. nausea!). Still, the oversensitivity/cramps/pain side seems to be getting worse! Lately I've become convinced that fluctuating hormones are my main trigger, to say the least. I've kept a detailed diary for months and years and it all fits together. Also, my PMS has been getting worse and along with it the IBS. For me it's worse around the estrogen peak (around day 10), then terrible but different about one or two days later when I also feel my cervix cramping. Then around day 16-18 severe colon cramping goes along with anxiety attacks and chocolate cravings. For the rest of the cycle (average 23 days) more cramping and diarreah attacks, triggered by eating or even just drinking luke warm water. This goes along with uterus cramps and sore breasts. Normally all (IBS and PMS) symptoms stop one day before my period and I'm completely symptom free until say day 5 of the new cycle (my period cramps are only mild and do not seem to affect the IBS).1. My question, has anybody out there got similar symptoms? This connection seems to be fairly unusual and poorly documented in research (most women seem to get worse before or during their period which is actually my best time, when I have completely perfect BMs, too).I would like to cut the problem by the root and get rid of these hormone fluctuations. I'm so sick of my poor diet and not being able to work and have a life!!2. Some of you wrote in recent posts that birth control pills have helped with your IBS. What have you been taking, what combination of hormones? Do you still get worse at certain times of the month? Any more detail would be so helpful!!ThanksSusaloh

 

[KellyNC]

I am thirty and have suffered with symptoms of IBS-D for three years. It all began after the birth of my second child at which time I had my tubes tied. I also feel my "best" (which isn't much) during the begining of my period. The first two days of my period were the only time I haven't had d BM's this month! I think there is a connection also. But I don't know what and neither does the doctors I've seen thus far.

 

[Katy252]

My IBS really hit me hard after the birth of my 2nd child too- I think I had it before then but not much. I would agree that hormone fluctuations are a huge part of my IBS. I have had my worst attacks while quitting breastfeeding or pregnant. I haven't been on the pill in a very long time so I can't help you there. I am DREADING the menopause years because I am terrified of what the hormones will do then. Your description of your IBS sounded very similar to mine. I get very sick of the limited diet too. Just wanted you to know, while I don't have any answers, I can relate to your situation.

 

[susaloh]

Kelly,Thanks for replying. I think doctors are rather useless when it comes to this topic - as I said, research doesn't support this connection, and if they're at all up-to-date, it's the research they're having to rely on. Also, they're specialised, you'll have a hard time finding a gyn who knows anything about IBS or a GE knowledgeable about hormones. I've been finding it a problem just to get them to take me serious. Do you actually see a pattern in the way your symptoms develop throughout your cycle or is everything just the same apart from the few days when you have your period? The only way to proove it to them (and to yourself) is by keeping a minute diary for several months.I will keep you posted about my success with 'the pill'!Thanks Katy, too, for responding! Susaloh

 

[M.Beth]

Your story sounds a lot like mine. My IBS is under control as long as my hormones are under control. Fortunately for me, my gynocologist recognizes the two go hand in hand. They stopped my period for 6 months with a shot called lupron ( many people do not do well with this but I did wonderful on the shots.) As soon as my periods returned so did all my symptoms. So now I control the hormones with birth control pills. I may have a little bit of trouble when I ovulate and on day one of my period, but nothing like before. I am 40 so I am a little old for the pill, but it is the only relief I get. My symptoms did worsen upon having my tubes tied. As someone in a previous post had mentioned. Don't know if there is a connection between the two or not.

 

[KellyNC]

I definetly see a pattern with my cycle but I've not actually kept a diary. I can't make a connection to any foods. I do let stress get the best of me sometimes but I think that has alot to do with my hormones too. What kind of bc pill are you trying Sus? My gyn gave me yasmine several months back and I've never tried them. Ever notice how the side effects of medicine are usually the reasons why you're taking it? Like those bc pills. Some of the side effects are dizziness and nauesa(sp) even the dreaded D. I once took an antibotic for strep throat that actually listed sore throat as a side effect

What's these lypron or something shots? can you tell us more about those?