Gallbladder & Hormones/Mestruation?

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-24-2004
Gallbladder & Hormones/Mestruation?
5
Tue, 01-16-2007 - 12:45pm

My digestive issues started 2 months after my daughter was born (pain in gallbladder area), peeking 4 months later (diarrhea daily for 3 weeks) and still continue 12 months later (bad gas pains followed by emptying of stomach contents each morning.

I have been to a GI and colon dr many times. I have had 2 HIDA scans which diagnosed that my gallbladder was functioning at about 11% and 20%, respectively. I have also tried dairy free and gluton free diets and have had stool tests, signoisoscopy and endoscopy (all normal results.)

I started birth control a few months ago and stopped last month since I hope to conceive this year. Last night I was cripled over with stomach pains, had a large BM and then 6 bouts of diarrehea until I went to bed. This morning I woke up with my period.

My GI doesn't think my gallbladder and menstrual cycle are related, but I have noticed my symptoms have gotton better each month with the onset of my period, they worsen around ovulation, and I just had that horrid experience last night - so I beg to differ.

I'd love any input. Thank you.

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Tue, 01-16-2007 - 9:52pm

I'm sorry that you haven't found a cause & treatment for your dreadful symptoms. Have you been to a gyno about this?


It was my understanding that hormones do impact our digestive system to some degree. I know that diahrea before a period isn't uncommon. That is always my clue that my period will start the next day and my Doctor has tole me it's hormones. (I also heard it on Oprah ;)


Have they done an ultrasound to see if you have stones in the gallbladder?


Hope you find a solution soon,


Jo


 

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-24-2004
Tue, 01-16-2007 - 11:28pm
Thank you for your reply and sympathy. There were no stones in my gallbladder and all other tests (blood, stool, signoidoscopy, endoscopy) have come back negative. It's been so frustrating. I am considering having my gallbladder removed (my GI says definately but my surgeon doesn't feel confident it will help) but would hate to have the same problems after - or constant diarrhea - if that's not the issue. I am wondering if maybe it could be endometriosis since it started after childbirth and sometimes (but not always) during ovualtion it is very painful using the toilet. I wish I - or anyone - had a more definate diagnosis for me...
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-04-2005
Wed, 01-17-2007 - 10:31pm

Welcome, but sorry you are having such pain.


JoAnn had some good ideas. I always had bowel issues around the time my period was due.


If you suspect endometriosis, your Gyne can only Dx it by doing lap surgery. You definitely should consider getting this looked into before ttc again, since it could cause problems/pain while you carry a baby.


Please keep us updated!

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iVillage Member
Registered: 07-27-2005
Thu, 01-18-2007 - 12:29pm
Hi, I read your post, and I usually have the same problem around my period. I mentioned it to my gyno and they said that it could be a sign of endometriosis. I also am having problems with my gallbladder area, have to have to HIDA scan done on the 26th.
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-04-2005
Thu, 01-18-2007 - 1:40pm

Thanks for sharing! I think we all feel a bit better, knowing that even when doctors sometimes dismiss our symptoms, other women come forward to agree with us! Doctors do NOT know everything and just because we might not fit a text book scenario doesn't mean we aren't dealing with certain issues.


The 26th isn't too far away...please keep us updated on what you learn and feel free to add your thoughts and opinions anytime.

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