Treatment Update

Almost three months ago I began taking Yasmin (not the same as Yaz) to control two things: 1) endometriosis, and 2) PMDD. Because I needed to take it continuously to control the endo growth (i.e. I was to take it without any breaks - no periods were allowed), I had breakthrough bleeding for the first month. My doctor told me to let myself have a period then start again. I did. The second month was better  - no breakthrough bleeding. However, as I continued to take the Yasmin, my physical discomfort became worse. My breasts were constantly swollen and painful, bloating became the norm, and I basically felt like I was in "the day before your period" limbo everyday. I didn't want my partner to touch me, I didn't was anyone to touch me. That wasn't fun. I finally stopped taking it a week ago.

The upside of this trial was that it helped my mood. It took the edge off and gave my husband and I about two months to recover emotionally from the heavy mood fluctuation we'd been experiencing (I should include my six and a half year old in that recovery as well). I got to stop feeling guilty and we have built some trust back. Depression subsided. Naturally, I don't want to feel physically miserable daily but I also don't want to deal with the mental aspects either. Luckily I have a doctor who wants to find the best possible solution too. She doesn't expect me, at this point, to suffer in one way so I don't suffer in another. This morning, she hit me over the head with my file (gently) to emphasize this point, which made me smile. I like her, obviously :-) She cares and understands quality of life issues.

That said, it's on to Yaz. I guess the level of estrogen in Yaz is lower than the amount in Yasmin, so the hope is that the physical side effects won't be as difficult. If this doesn't work, it's down to the ring or an IUD.

I cannot take antidepressants, which I think I've mentioned before. If you are interested in why, or are considering taking antidepressants, please go here. Because I am running out of options, I have been looking into dietary changes. A very kind person directed me to the Cycle Diet site which is run by Debra Hope-Riedesel, a licensed registered dietitian. Out of a bit of desperation, I contacted Debra and paid for some consultations. She suggested I be tested for gluten sensitivity. Because of my family history (mom has intestinal problems, IBS...) and my own health issues (endo, IBS, PMDD) it makes sense for me to  see if this is a problem. I ran the idea by my OB today and she said what Debra, friends of friends, and websites say: If you are gluten sensitive and you eliminate gluten from your diet you will feel like a different person. It will make a big difference. So, I have started the testing process as well and will let you know how that goes.

My doctor also shared that she has a teenager who is gluten sensitive. Changes in her diet have led to decreased irritability.

I imagine that others have had ups and downs with treatment for PMDD. I know it helps me to hear these stories, get new ideas, and just know I'm not alone when treatment isn't going well (not that I would wish for treatment to go badly for any of you!). Please feel free to share your treatment experiences here.

Jennifer

Comments

[Stef]

I have PMDD and IBS and am lactose intolerant. Someone told me about the gluten issues, unfortunately, after taking it out, I still had all of my same issues.
Hopefully you will find something that works for you.

Gianna at bipolarblast gave me some great info on IBS that has worked for her, I am going to be trying out next.

Hopefully that will do some good.

Geez, it takes so much hardwork and can be so frustrating searching for a way to feel great all the way around.

I LONG for the day when there is a magic pill!

[tamara]

I'm fighting the same demon! I did go GF and CF as well. I think my biggest problem has been alcohol too close to when i'm going to get my period! keep seraching...better than people telling us we're nuts!