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Diahrrea during period?
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MichaelaJackson posted:
I know that this is a strange question, but is it possible? Every time I have my period (and that's every three months due to being on birth control for heavy bleeding and cramping during it), I tend to get the runs. The only difference this time is that they are more watery, but I do get it each time. I am dealing with a sinus issue, so could that be making the runs worse?

Michaela
3 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:Diahrrea during period?I know that this is a strange question, but is it possible? Every time I have my period (and that's every three months due to being on birth control for heavy bleeding and cramping during it), I tend to get the runs. The only difference this time is that they are more watery, but I do get it each time. I am dealing with a sinus issue, so could that be making the runs worse? <br><br>Michaela
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tlkittycat1968 responded:
That's common and normal. There's a reason for it but I don't remember what it is.
Report This| Share this:Diahrrea during period?That's common and normal. There's a reason for it but I don't remember what it is.
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Jane Harrison Hohner, RN, RNP responded:
Dear MichaelaJackson: tlkittycat has spoken correctly. Historically birth control pills (BCPs) have been used to create lighter periods and less cramping. This is accomplished by keeping the lining of the uterus thinner (less flow), and by blocking prostaglandins. Common menstrual cramps are caused by the release of prostaglandins from the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins create both the cramps of labor and menstrual cramps by making the uterus contract. Common cramps may start prior to the onset of flow and usually last 72 hours. There are also receptor sites for prostaglandins in the bowel and central nervous system. Thus prostaglandins can produce not just cramps but also nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and other "flu-like" symptoms.

Ways to block prostaglandins can include BCPs, or anti-prostaglandin drugs (eg ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, ketoprofen, etc.). Some alternative healthcare providers such as naturopaths stress using of Omega 6 fatty acids in dietary choices, and cramp bark.

Yours,
Jane

PS If you are taking broad spectrum antibiotics for a sinus infection, the antibiotics can cause/worsen diarrhea. If the diarrhea persists after your flow contact the MD who prescribed antibiotics.
Report This| Share this:Diahrrea during period?Dear MichaelaJackson: tlkittycat has spoken correctly. Historically birth control pills (BCPs) have been used to create lighter periods and less cramping. This is accomplished by keeping the lining of the uterus thinner (less flow), and by blocking prostaglandins. Common menstrual cramps are caused by the release of prostaglandins from the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins create both the cramps of labor and menstrual cramps by making the uterus contract. Common cramps may start prior to the onset of flow and usually last 72 hours. There are also receptor sites for prostaglandins in the bowel and central nervous system. Thus prostaglandins can produce not just cramps but also nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and other "flu-like" symptoms. <br /><br />Ways to block prostaglandins can include BCPs, or anti-prostaglandin drugs (eg ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, ketoprofen, etc.). Some alternative healthcare providers such as naturopaths stress using of Omega 6 fatty acids in dietary choices, and cramp bark.<br /><br />Yours,<br />Jane<br /><br />PS If you are taking broad spectrum antibiotics for a sinus infection, the antibiotics can cause/worsen diarrhea. If the diarrhea persists after your flow contact the MD who prescribed antibiotics.
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MichaelaJackson replied to Jane Harrison Hohner, RN, RNP's response:
Jane and tlkittycat:

Thanks for the information. I'm not taking antibiotics for the sinuses. I have noticed that the cramps and flow don't seem to be lighter though. Of course, whoever is constantly changing my prescription brand, at the pharmacy...most likely insurance...needs to stop doing that.

Michaela
Report This| Share this:Diahrrea during period?Jane and tlkittycat:<br><br>Thanks for the information. I'm not taking antibiotics for the sinuses. I have noticed that the cramps and flow don't seem to be lighter though. Of course, whoever is constantly changing my prescription brand, at the pharmacy...most likely insurance...needs to stop doing that.<br><br>Michaela
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