amenorrhea - and more - Women's Health Message Board

pottselady · 05-16-2005, 01:43 PM

Hi - I am new to this site and wanted to know if anyone else is having problems with amenorrhea? I have always been irregular since the onset of menstrual cycle at 12 years old. Usually going 2-3 months between cycles. I have been diagnosed with both endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome but have three children?! Doesn't make since with what I have read about either. Recently I have gained some extra weight, especially around my middle (abdomen). I have not had a period since early September not even spotting which I usually do. My "normal" periods are usually one day of "normal" flow and two days of spotting or four days of spotting. I am not pregnant (tubal ligation over 6 years ago) and have my thyroid tested yearly due to mother and grandmother having complications with theirs. I can not take birth control methods due to severe cramps when attempting to take them (ended up in hospital twice from it - about 10 to 12 years ago). I do not think I am old enough to be going through premenapause as I turned 31 in March. I have been to see my family doctor previously but he is not concerned and I have seen gyno's but they never seemed to worry either.

Any suggestions?

ASDGRMama · 05-16-2005, 09:39 PM

I think that you should have your hormone levels checked (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone and cortisol). Saliva testing is reported to be the most accurate measure. You can order these tests online if your doctor won't do them.

It sounds like you may have low progesterone or excess estrogen. Also, your thyroid levels may be lower than optimum even if they're in the "normal" range. If you can get your lab results and post them on the thyroid board they may be able to give you some good info there.

I started using progesterone cream two months ago and this week have added the herbs vitex and evening primrose oil. These things can take up to 3-6 months to be effective but I have heard that they are indeed effective. Just my thoughts

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Love and Prayers, Kelly

pottselady · 06-08-2005, 12:33 PM

Thank you Kelly

I went to a female doctor and had a series of tests done. I tried to write down what they told me but could not get them all. I will be picking up a hard copy of it this week.

I do know she said that my Lutinizing Hormone level was in the postmenapausal (sp?) area but that you have to look at it along with others for it to be true?! This struck me as strange especially since I am 31 ~ Has anyone experienced this? My thyroid levels were okay again - I have them checked every year since my mother (overactive) and grandmother (underactive) have problems with theirs.

She suggested putting me on birth control but I refused - ended up in hospital twice with bc so won't go that route again. It causes really bad pains in my abdomen to the point I can't stand up. I would have 10 kids over the pain that birth control does to me and I had three naturally - if that tells you anything!

I just don't know what else to do - she said she is going to talk to a colleague of hers and get back to me.