IBD Symptoms
Hello, I have had the strangest issues the past 16 years. It starts at the beginning of my cycle with lower stomach cramping, diarrhea, vomiting, and severe nausea. It doesn't happen every cycle but maybe every 3 or 4 cycles. I almost always end up in the ER. My doctor thinks it may be IBD and have a colonoscopy scheduled. Anyone else have these type symptoms?
Hi
, thanks so much for reaching out. I'm sorry you'[re experiencing these horrible symptoms! Abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, these are all common symptoms of IBD but, of course, they can be common symptoms of other things as well! I'm attaching a link here that refers to Menstruation: "The Complicated Relationship Between IBD and Menstrual Cycles" and hoping it gives you a bit of insight. Please keep me updated on how your appointment goes! I'd love to hear how you make out. Sending positive vibes - Pam (team member) 
Hi
,
I am so sorry you are going through this! I haven't been hospitalized for symptoms of my menstrual cycle, but I have noticed an increase in all of the symptoms you mentioned when my Crohn's disease is flaring. When my symptoms are more under control, my menstrual symptoms don't tend to be as bad and my cycle is slightly shorter. I started using the Nuvaring to try and manage symptoms and it only exacerbated everything to the point where I could barely function even when I wasn't on my period. Then I tried an IUD (Mirena) and I have definitely seen a huge improvement. One perk being that I haven't gotten a period in 3 years, and while I still get mild symptoms (achey lower back/pelvic area, minor breakouts, bloating), I definitely see improvement.
I would love to hear how you are doing and how your scope goes! Best wishes!
Natali (Team Member)
Hi!
So sorry you are going through this. Unfortunately, with my many years having Crohn's, I have come to realize that with each cycle, my symptoms worsen. I've been told by my gastroenterologist that there is no connection, however anyone in the holistic community says that there is an absolute connection.
All I know, is that every time my cycle came, I was thrown into a flare. However, it may seem like, from what you describe that perhaps you should tell your gynecologist about your symptoms, too? It may very well be an issue with your ovaries? I know that with each cycle the egg is released from either side. Usually each month it switches whether the egg is released from the right ovary or left. It could be that you have something going on in one of your ovaries? Of course, I am no doctor, but it may be something to investigate?
Other than during your cycle, do you have symptoms?
I hope you feel better soon, and find some answers. I know how frustrating it can be to be left in the dark.
Keep us posted!
Always dancing,
Elizabeth (team member)
