Period Question. Please Help, Girls Only!?

Question

I usually prepare for my period a week ahead of time. However about three days before my period I started getting these horrible migraines. I've started to realize they come just before my period. The migraines are so bad they make my stomach hurt and I always end up throwing up. Not to mention my cramps and pelvic pain. I've always ignored it before because I always get migraines. Tylenol does nothing for me. I've even tried taking it two days before my period. I had a cold over the weekend so I doubled my cold medicine with excedrin and vitamins. This knocked out the majority of the cramps but they still come in waves. I'm concerned about starting birth control because the last time I took it, it knocked out the cramps and everything but my period ended up lasting 7 days. The worst part is I don't mind my period at all, it's just the PMS kicks my ***. I feel like a slave to my hormones. Does anyone have any advice?

Answer 1

Migraines can be caused by hormone fluctuations. I suggest you see a neurologist for your migraines. Tylenol is not strong enough to handle a migraine! Also, going on the pill may reduce your migraines...it may also make them worse so be sure to tell your doctor that you get migraines! It will be a factor in what form of birth control pill he/she chooses for you.

Did you also know that there is now a birth control pill on the market that greatly reduces the length of your period (sorry, I can't think of the name of it right now)? You might want to see if you are a candidate.

Also make sure your doctor is aware of the PMS. Some birth control pills will minimize or even negate the PMS symptoms. One that does is the "no period birth control". You won't have any periods at all while on it and no PMS symptoms. I have no idea if this is widely available yet. I know it was being evaluated in 2005 so it might be available now. Just ask your gynecologist.

Just make sure you tell your gynecologist everything: migraines, PMS...he will be able to determine the best form of birth control for you and, hopefully, one that will help your migraines, cramps and your PMS.