More Periods Than Ever Before

[Coolclimates]

I've noticed one thing since going gluten free 4 months ago: my periods are coming more and more often, like every 3 weeks. It's a drag because I'll start one, and 3 weeks later (from the first day of the previous period), I'll get one again! Mine have always been regular, but never this close together. I don't take any birth control pills, and haven't had good results with them in the past.

I'm also dealing with a lot more breast pain, for long periods of time, sometimes weeks. I've gotten several mammograms and sonograms and everything is fine except for a small fibroid in the left breast, which they say is benign.

Any ideas?

[Looking for answers]

Hi,

It sounds like your hormones are off a bit. I would suggest that your doctor/endo run a hormone panel for you. I noticed in your other post that you have ongoing health issues, including depression, etc that you can't shake. Perhaps it's hormone related? A Celiac friend of mine has had ongoing health and emotional issues as well, including very heavy and long-lasting periods and chronic fatigue. It turns out she has an ovarian cyst that has thrown her hormones off. Just a thought.

I hope you feel better soon!

[cassP]

yes. it's a good idea to get everything checked by your doc & gyno. i had an ultrasound at the time i was getting celiac tests... just because of all the bloating- my doc thought it would be a good idea- to just look over the reproductive system- make sure everything was ok. and it was- so its a good relief to just check everything and know you're ok

also, ive got fibrocystic breasts- not sure if you have the same thing- i had it off and on over the years- started with The Pill and coffee drinking. i was hoping this gluten free diet would magically cure it- its gone down a little- but i still have some cysts. i think caffeine is a big culprit.

ALSO- you need to get your Thyroid tested (as do i)-> Thyroid issues are very common for gluten intolerants & Celiacs... AND Thyroid issues can affect your hormones & cycles too... AND fatigue and depression!!

[Coolclimates]

I just got my thyroid tested and it was normal. I also had normal levels of Vitamin D and Iron. I've had 2 laparoscopies in the past to check for endometriosis, but none was found either time. I will try to find a gyn I can talk to about the periods...the problem is there aren't many here in my town that are that good, or are covered by my health insurance.

[glutenfreeinminnesota]

I had the opposite "problem", I missed a period a few months after going on the gluten-free diet. I am on the pill and have never in my life missed a period. In fact, mine are always heavier then I think they should be . But I think through your body healing...it also throws things out of whack. My period eventually came back. Our bodies all cope with things differently...but maybe it's just the change/healing? I don't know Just a thought! I would talk to my doctor though if it just keeps on like that...good luck!

[cassP]

i read somewhere years ago, that it takes the liver 2 months to "catch up" to any lifestyle/dietary changes.... makes sense to me... maybe your body's just adjusting right now