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Cramps


Wed, July 14, 2010 12:00 AM

Hi Everyone,

I have really bad cramps during my period.  My digestive problems (I have Crohn's) get way worse and the cramping causes alot of pain. Eating makes it worst, so I usually eat very lightly.

I'm wondering, if anyone else has experienced extremely painful periods because of IBD.  And if so, what were some ways you found useful for dealing with the pain?

Thanks so much!

FPO zinnia
Joined May 13, 2010

Thu, September 16, 2010 9:46 AM

 Reply posted for katya.

katya,

Great suggestions!  I will try these things.  I'm really interested to learn more about reflexology.  Is that where you press certain points in your hands and feet?  Thanks!

Zinnia

FPO zinnia
Joined May 13, 2010

Wed, September 15, 2010 12:07 PM

 Reply posted for Zinnia.

Yes, yes yes. After 10 years, YES! My theory is that  the abdominal pain receptors have just had a party between the menstrual cramps and intestinal cramps, and it ALL HURTS.  Because I was in my early 20's when I started to get sick, my current GI doc says it is plausible that my nerves and pain receptors were still building and growing... and I may have more than the average healthy person in my abdomen.    I use heat and ice.... HOT BATHS... reflexology and massage.....midol and Hyomax <RX> for the pain. Caffeine and CHOCOLATE... distraction with my pets, my favorite pillow, and either the bed or the TV. speaking from experience, yesterday was an on the couch in misery day.  GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION!

FPO katya
Joined Sep 15, 2010

Tue, August 31, 2010 3:40 PM

 Reply posted for jquinn513.

Thanks!

FPO zinnia
Joined May 13, 2010

Mon, August 09, 2010 9:47 PM

 Reply posted for Zinnia.

I have had the same problems and my doctor let me get the Mirena IUD even though I've never had a baby and I'm younger than they usually let people get them and it has made my periods sooooo much better, which made my stomach better too. and you don't have to worry about absorption problems during flare ups like with a birth control pill when you have an IUD. I highly recommend it. The Mirena does cause ovarian cysts though sometimes, and they can be painful too so that's a risk. I'd still recommend it though! :)

FPO jquinn513
Joined Aug 9, 2010

Wed, July 21, 2010 7:25 PM

 Reply posted for arcane222.

Hey Everyone!

Thanks so much for the info.  I really appreciate it.

FPO zinnia
Joined May 13, 2010

Fri, July 16, 2010 8:28 AM

 Reply posted for Zinnia.

I, too, have a terrible time with flaring and cramps during my period.  Even though it is the last thing you want to do during that time, exercise does help.  Try just a walk around the block.

Also, my doctor prescribed a Canasa suppository (never fun to take, but you do what you have to do), to be used at bedtime during my period if things get really intolerable.

Hang in there!

FPO arcane222
Joined May 27, 2010

Thu, July 15, 2010 8:17 PM

 Reply posted for Zinnia.

I know what you mean. I feel like i am going to die when I get my period. I'm on birth control to help with the cramping and to regulate it cause it went all screwy, but seriously as I type this I feel like i'm being kicked over and over again in the ovaries. I've actually spent all day in bed with a heating pad on in 90 degree wealth. So not fun. I'm going to talk to by Gastro Doc and Obyn Doc at my next appointments in August cause I can't hide out in bed. I'm so freaking lucky I had today off work. 

FPO kupcake
Joined Mar 8, 2010

Thu, July 15, 2010 1:31 PM

 Reply posted for Zinnia.

Hi, my cramps are really bad the week leading up to my menstral cycle, but once I start they usually calm down. I spoke with my Gi doc and my GYN doc and both told me that it has to do with a hormone that your body releases and it affects your intestines. They told me to watch what I eat and get a lot of exercise. Maybe try those and see if it helps.

Good Luck! :-)

FPO hesaves
Joined Nov 30, 2009

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