Honestly, I think hormones play a HUGE role in feeling worse during menstruation. I've since had a partial hysterectomy, but I remember how BAD my colitis dragon (my term of "endearment"😉 would feel during my period. That's when the heating pad became my BEST friend--always during my periods. I blame hormones because when I was pregnant, my colitis seemed to calm down. I was SHOCKED! I was so afraid that it might get worse, but I experienced the opposite effect. So, in my heart, I say hormones are the culprit. With that stated, all I can suggest is to snuggle up with a heating pad to get through the cycle. Wishing you pain-free days! Hugs! --Traci, UC-IBD Team Member