how much does your time of the month affect you?

[stiltonandmerlot]

I have come to realise that the way I am at this time of the month is perhaps not normal - or maybe it is - you tell me.

I feel absolutely murderous for the few days before hand. I snap and shout and am just vile. Then during i feel utterly depressed and hopeless. I question everything and want to drink myself into a hole. Not to mention the crippling pain I experience and the sheer volume of blood loss is horrendous.

Can I do anything about this? Is this normal? (I can't be on the pill as we are trying for baby number 2). Am I alone in this?

Crippling pain during menses is not normal at all and you should not put up with it. Endometriosis is a common cause of very painful periods and it can also cause heavy blood loss.

I would start keeping a daily pain and symptom diary (noting pain scale from 1-10) and insist to the GP that you are referred to a gynae for further evaluation for both the PMT and the pains you are experiencing. DO not take no for an answer.

i have always had it, when i was in my early 20s I used to have to leave work because i was in so much pain. I'm very worried about Endometriosis? Does that mean I could have difficulties getting pregnant?

I could fall out with my big toe a couple of days before and very tearful....only been like it last couple of years though.