Jump to content

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):

    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Our Content
    eNewsletter
    Donate

Premature Menopause

Waiting

By Waiting
in Related Issues & Disorders

Recommended Posts

Waiting Newbie
Waiting
Posted

I was just wondering -- for those of you who were diagnosed with premature menopause (or experienced signs of it) before going gluten free, did you return to normal periods after or seem to "recover"? I have used bio-identical hormones for several years because of it, have stopped, and am hopeful now that I am gluten free. Am I hoping for too much???

Thanks!

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Gemini Experienced
Gemini
Posted
I was just wondering -- for those of you who were diagnosed with premature menopause (or experienced signs of it) before going gluten free, did you return to normal periods after or seem to "recover"? I have used bio-identical hormones for several years because of it, have stopped, and am hopeful now that I am gluten free. Am I hoping for too much???

Thanks!

It all depends on your age. I was 45 when my cycle stopped completely, after 7 years of wonky, irregular periods. FYI, my mother was 36 years old when her cycles stopped, never to return. I did not go to doctors about it because they were too busy harassing me about screening tests to actually listen to what I was saying. I knew I did not have cancer or anything bad but thought I was just taking after my mother. My 2 sisters also went through early menopause. All of them have a problem with gluten but only 1 has been smart enough to listen to me. <_<

I was diagnosed with full blown, late stage celiac disease exactly 1 year later and my cycle never returned. I am now 50 years old. I also use bio-identicals for menopausal symptom relief. Personally, and even though menopause can create it's own set of problems, not getting a period is so freeing. No more extremely bad cramps, no more money spent on supplies, and no more fear of a pregnancy I do not want. I dumped into it a bit early but, at 50, am not a 25 year old with no cycle so it depends on how old you are. I would imagine if you are under 35 and become menopausal, that might not make a person too happy and it might indicate another problem with your endocrine system.....nothing serious but an endocrine malfunction or something along those lines.

If your cycle does not start again, I would see a doctor about it but be prepared that it may indeed be early menopause. I am not sure if mine and my female family members went early because of celiac disease and the ensuing deficiencies or because that's the way it happens in my family....a familial thing. Just do not let the doctors scare you because they love to be all gloom and doom about early menopause. It has it's own set of problems but a woman is by no means dead if her periods stop! :P

darlindeb25 Collaborator
darlindeb25
Posted

I started menopause in my early 40's. My mom had a hysterectomy in her 30's, so I can't go by her. My sister is somewhat going through menopause now, and don't tell her I said this, she is almost 51. By 49, my cycles had stopped completely, which was a blessing for me. They were always so heavy. Then at 51, I had a hysterectomy. As Gemini, it is freeing.

If you question yours, then absolutely see a doctor, find out what they say. With a simple hormone test, they can tell if you are in menopause or not.

Waiting Newbie
Waiting
Posted
  • Author

I was diagnosed a couple of years ago (around 33), but am suspected to have becom pre-menopausal around age 27(by my doctor). I am one of those Celiacs with a history of miscarriages (6), and was hoping that now, at age 35, maybe I would still have a chance, since we still have no children. I have been hopeful (only been gluten free for two months) that my periods might regulate again. They have never stopped, just come every two to three weeks instead of regularly. My hormone levels did show menopause, but I still have periods, and I have NO symptoms (hot flashes, insomnia, irritability, etc.) other than migraines. I have been a "mystery" to my doctors for so long that they really do not even know what calls to make with me anymore; thus, like many of you, I have taken over my own care! Glad I have found this group to help me out!

ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted

There is a chance at your age that your hormones will 'normalize'. When I was finally diagnosed my OB/GYN did say that if I started to menstrate again not to be concerned. Unfortunately it was to late for my system to 'turn on' again.

I will keep my fingers crossed for you.

Lisa Mentor
Lisa
Posted

I started Peri-symptoms at 35 and after a full ten years, done. I was diagnosed around 50. I haven't a clue if it was Celiac related and I can't check on my family history regarding the lady issues.

ksymonds84 Enthusiast
ksymonds84
Posted

My mother went in to early menopause because she took a medication called DES (don't know the long name but you can google it) to stop miscarrying with my sister. She didn't take it with me. My mom was all done with menopause by the time she was 45. My sister had a cyst the size of a grapefruit on her ovary when she was 15. She has had many problems throughout life and is now battling with endometriosis with the next step being a hysterectomy. They pretty much stopped using DES in the 60's. My mom had no idea about the DES causing all of this for her and my sister. She is very happy that she went through menopause early though and happy that she didn't lose my sister because she felt she would have without the drug. I've never had any problems with cysts, endo, ect so its worth investigating if you are in the age range to see if your mom has taken this drug.

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Waiting Newbie
Waiting
Posted
  • Author
My mother went in to early menopause because she took a medication called DES (don't know the long name but you can google it) to stop miscarrying with my sister. She didn't take it with me. My mom was all done with menopause by the time she was 45. My sister had a cyst the size of a grapefruit on her ovary when she was 15. She has had many problems throughout life and is now battling with endometriosis with the next step being a hysterectomy. They pretty much stopped using DES in the 60's. My mom had no idea about the DES causing all of this for her and my sister. She is very happy that she went through menopause early though and happy that she didn't lose my sister because she felt she would have without the drug. I've never had any problems with cysts, endo, ect so its worth investigating if you are in the age range to see if your mom has taken this drug.

Thanks. I've been to several different fertility clinics, and all asked out the DES. Other than low hormones and antiphosolipids, I have "infertility of unknown origin and recurrent miscarriages for undetermined reasons." Helpful, huh?

My husband is from Colorado, BTW, and we still go in the summer to visit. LOVE IT!

  • 4 months later...
Loulou Newbie
Loulou
Posted
I was just wondering -- for those of you who were diagnosed with premature menopause (or experienced signs of it) before going gluten free, did you return to normal periods after or seem to "recover"? I have used bio-identical hormones for several years because of it, have stopped, and am hopeful now that I am gluten free. Am I hoping for too much???

Thanks!

Hi I have a nine year old son but since his birth my periods never normalised and now are non existant I am 43 yrs old.My diagnosis was premature ovarian failur at age 36.5 My mother has been diagnosed celiac late in life( aged 60 but abdo pain for years) but so far my blood tests have been negative.I think I should insist on a endoscopy and biopsy- I think I may be celiac- maybe triggered post partum? I too take bio identical hormones. Has your situation changed since going gluten free- any return of menstrual cycle? I am not gluten free at the moment. Good luck I hope things are working for you as several women have mentioned a strict change in diet has helped. I wasnt ready to let go of my period- still arent, and I would dearly love another child- my friend is pregnant at 43 with her first ( not IVF)

ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted
Hi I have a nine year old son but since his birth my periods never normalised and now are non existant I am 43 yrs old.My diagnosis was premature ovarian failur at age 36.5 My mother has been diagnosed celiac late in life( aged 60 but abdo pain for years) but so far my blood tests have been negative.I think I should insist on a endoscopy and biopsy- I think I may be celiac- maybe triggered post partum? I too take bio identical hormones. Has your situation changed since going gluten free- any return of menstrual cycle? I am not gluten free at the moment. Good luck I hope things are working for you as several women have mentioned a strict change in diet has helped. I wasnt ready to let go of my period- still arent, and I would dearly love another child- my friend is pregnant at 43 with her first ( not IVF)

After you have finished all testing be sure to give the diet a good strict try. Not all of us are picked up by testing but your body will give you the answer.

Swimmr Contributor
Swimmr
Posted
I was just wondering -- for those of you who were diagnosed with premature menopause (or experienced signs of it) before going gluten free, did you return to normal periods after or seem to "recover"? I have used bio-identical hormones for several years because of it, have stopped, and am hopeful now that I am gluten free. Am I hoping for too much???

Thanks!

It has not happened to me, but that is one MAJOR thing my mom went through. She is now 47 and was told by her doctor that she was going through pre menopause. After being gluten free now for a few years she has returned back to normal :)

However, every once in a while she get's glutened and usually those accidental ones are bad for her. She will have those premenopausal symptoms again. She'll miss her menstrual cycle for that month, hot flashes, etc.

She's been checked out and there is nothing menopausal about her.

Stay positive! :)

jkr Apprentice
jkr
Posted

My periods came back this summer after not having periods for over a year. I became gluten free this year when I got diagnosed. I think it had something to do with my periods returning. I'm 50 so we will see how long it lasts.

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):


  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      131,861
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    Priscilla Buxton
    Newest Member
    Priscilla Buxton
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      121.4k
    • Total Posts
      1m
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):


  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • Rogol72
      Ibuprofen

      By Rogol72 · Posted

      Some interesting articles regarding the use of Zinc Carnosine to help heal gastric ulcers, gastritis and intestinal permeability. I would consult a medical professional about it's use. https://www.nature.com/articles/ncpgasthep0778 https://www.rupahealth.com/post/clinical-applications-of-zinc-carnosine---evidence-review https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7146259/ https://www.fallbrookmedicalcenter.com/zinc-l-carnosine-benefits-dosage-and-safety/
    • Jillian83
      Celiac and dermatitis herpetiformis has taken Me from Me

      By Jillian83 · Posted

      He is. Which makes everything even more difficult. I’m not a believer in “staying for the kids” but I have nowhere to go and it’s not just me, it’s me plus my babies. We live in a beautiful place, lots of land in the country and me and the kids love the place we’ve called home for their entire lives. But Im seeing that he’ll never change, that my kids deserve a happy healthy Momma, and that staying in this as is will be the early death of me. Then I look at the scars covering my entire body…this disease and the chronic stress I’ve been enduring for years that tell me I’m no longer beautiful and no one will ever look at me with interest again. I try self care, try to give myself grace so I can just start loving myself enough to gain strength but the slightest sparkle in my eye and skip in my step attracts his wrath and it all comes crashing ten fold. Life is just absolutely railing me from every single direction leaving me wanting to wave that white flag bc I don’t feel like there’s much hope no matter what happens. 
    • trents
      Celiac and dermatitis herpetiformis has taken Me from Me

      By trents · Posted

      Is this man the father of your children?
    • Jillian83
      Celiac and dermatitis herpetiformis has taken Me from Me

      By Jillian83 · Posted

      Hi, I was recently diagnosed with Celiac and dermatitis herpetiformis after years of suffering without answers. I lost my mind. I lost my job. I lost so much time. I lost Me. Conventional doctors are opulent come near me and the one who did sat across the room, misdiagnosed me, pumped me full of steroids which collapsed my entire hip for 6 months. So without answers I began my holistic journey. Fast forward a couple of years and still struggling with a mysterious whole body itchy, crawling “skin hell”, perfect teeth now deteriorating, thick hair now thinning rapidly and no more than a day or 2 at most relief….An acquaintance opened up a functional medicine practice. Cash only, I found a way. Within a month tests clearly showing my off the charts gluten allergy/sensitivity as well as the depletion of vital nutrients due to leaky gut and intestinal damage. dermatitis herpetiformis was more than likely what I was experiencing with my skin. I was happy. I thought this is easy, eat healthy Whole Foods, follow the diet restrictions and I finally get to heal and feel confident and like myself again very soon! 😔 Supplements are very pricey but I got them and began my healing. Which leads to the other major issue: not working, stay at home Mom of young kids, entirely financially dependent on my man of 7 plus years. He’s never been supportive of anything I’ve ever done or been thru. He controls everything. I’m not given much money ever at a time and when he does leave money it’s only enough to possibly get gas. His excuse is that I’ll spend it on other things. So my “allowance” is inconsistent and has conditions. He withholds money from me as punishment for anything he wants. Since being diagnosed, he’s gained a new control tactic to use as punishment. He now is in control of when I get to eat. He asked for proof of my diagnosis and diet bc he said I made it up just to be able to eat expensive organic foods. Then after I sent him my file from my doctor he then said she wasn’t a real doctor. 😡. I go days upon days starving, sometimes breaking down and eating things I shouldn’t bc I’m so sick then I pay horribly while he gets annoyed and angry bc I’m not keeping up with all the duties I’m supposed to be doing. His abuse turns full on when I’m down and it’s in these desperate times when I need his support and care the most that I’m punished with silence, being starved, ignored, belittled. He will create more of a mess just bc I’m unable to get up and clean so that when I am better, I’m so overwhelmed with chores to catch up that the stress causes me to go right back into a flare from hell and the cycle repeats. I’m punished for being sick. I’m belittled for starving and asking for healthy clean water. I’m purposely left out of his life. He won’t even tell me he’s going to the grocery or to get dinner bc he doesn’t want me to ask him for anything. I have no one. I have nothing. Im not better. My supplements ran out and I desperately need Vitamin D3 and a methylated B complex at the very minimal just to function….he stares at me blankly…no, a slight smirk, no words. He’s happiest when im miserable and I am miserable.  this is so long and im condensing as much as I can but this situation is so complicated and disgusting. And it’s currently my life. The “IT” girl, the healthy, beautiful, perfect skin, perfect teeth, thick and curly locks for days, creative and talented IT girl….now I won’t even leave this house bc Im ashamed of what this has dont to my body, my skin. Im disgusted. The stress is keeping me from healing and I think he knows that and that’s why he continues to keep me in that state. He doesn’t want me confident or successful. He doesn’t want me healed and healthy bc then how would he put the blame of all his problems on me? This journey has been hell and I’ve been in Hell before. I’ve been killed by an ex, I’ve been raped, robbed, held hostage, abused beyond nightmares but the cruelty I’ve experienced from him bc of this disease is the coldest I’ve ever experienced. I’ve wanted to give up. Starving and in tears, desperate…I found a local food pantry in our small town so I reached out just saying I had Celiac and was on hard times. This woman is blessing me daily with prepared gluten free meals, donations, educational info, people who know this disease and how they manage life and the blessings just keep coming. But it’s overwhelming and I feel like I don’t deserve it at all. He just glared and I know he’s going to sabotage it somehow. I don’t even know what to do anymore. I’m so broken and just want peace and healing. 
    • cristiana
      Ibuprofen

      By cristiana · Posted

      @Colleen H   I am just curious,  when you were tested for coeliac disease, did the doctors find out if you had any deficiencies? Sometimes muscle pain can be caused by certain deficiencies, for example, magnesium, vitamin D, calcium, and potassium.   Might be worth looking into having some more tests.  Pins and needles can be neuropathy, again caused by deficiencies, such as iron and B12,  which can be reversed if these deficiencies are addressed. In the UK where I live we are usually only tested for iron, B12 and vitamin D deficiencies at diagnosis.   I was very iron anemic and supplementation made a big difference.  B12 was low normal, but in other countries the UK's low normal would be considered a deficiency.  My vitamin D was low normal, and I've been supplementing ever since (when I remember to take it!) My pins and needles definitely started to improve when my known deficiencies were addressed.  My nutritionist also gave me a broad spectrum supplement which really helped, because I suspect I wasn't just deficient in what I mention above but in many other vitamins and minerals.  But a word of warning, don't take iron unless blood tests reveal you actually need it, and if you are taking it your levels must be regularly monitored because too much can make you ill.  (And if you are currently taking iron, that might actually be making your stomach sore - it did mine, so my GP changed my iron supplementation to a gentler form, ferrous gluconate). Lastly, have you been trying to take anything to lessen the pain in your gut?  I get a sore stomach periodically, usually when I've had too much rich food, or when I have had to take an aspirin or certain antibiotics, or after glutening.  When this happens, I take for just a few days a small daily dose of OTC omeprazole.  I also follow a reflux or gastritis diet. There are lots online but the common denominators to these diets is you need to cut out caffeine, alcohol, rich, spicy, acidic food etc and eat small regularly spaced meals.   When I get a sore stomach, I also find it helpful to drink lots of water.  I also find hot water with a few slices of ginger very soothing to sip, or camomile tea.  A wedge pillow at night is good for reflux. Also,  best not to eat a meal 2-3 hours before going to bed. If the stomach pain is getting worse, though, it would be wise to see the doctor again. I hope some of this helps. Cristiana    
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

NOTICE: This site places This site places cookies on your device (Cookie settings). on your device. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.