AF arrived this morning without any warning signs, apart from a temp drop.
However, since I've got out of bed the pain is increasing. On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being very painful) I would say this is an 8.
I've taken painkillers and anti- inflammatory tablets containing ibuprofen plus the heat pack for the last hour and the pain isn't decreasing. Usually within the hour I have results and can function again.
I can't even do a load of washing I'm that bent over in pain.
They sound similar in pain level to my pre-mirena periods. How much blood are you losing? If it is much more than normal in conjunction with the pain or you start to feel woozy and lightheaded then perhaps seek medical advice. If not then ignore the washing, and curl up on the couch. Somedays AF is just worse than others
I've never had a heavy period so for CD1 the flow is normal.
I've been seeing a naturopath so the colour is bright red for a change as opposed to brownish.
I just I'm freaking out a bit as we're TTC'ing and over the 15 cycles without BCP this would have to be the worst pain.
I'm currently laying in bed with the electric blanket on to help with the back pain.
Thanks for your reply Traveller
My last period was so painful (not exceptionally heavy though) that I had to leave work early... I was in so much pain I was lying on the bathroom floor in the fetal position crying...
Sorry for a TMI question, but are you losing any clots?
It could be your system 'cleaning itself out' due to starting TCM...
Just thought I'd let you know that what you're describing can be quiet normal for someone with a back injury. Is this your first AF since your injury?
For a lot of people with lower back injuries, the extra pressure created in the abdomen by AF, causes pressure on the back. With protruding discs, this can cause the discs to touch nerves which causes pain. It sux, I know. The best thing yu can do is what you're already doing. Perhaps try some ICE on the back to try and reduce inflammation there (alternate heat and Ice as I mentioned on FCS the other day). The good news is, it should resolve in a couple of days. Just be careful with your movements in the meantime and rest where you can.
Mother Goose, your post explains so well why my periods got so horrendous after my twins, as the pregnancy exasperated my previous bank injury. Thank you so much it's all so much clearer to me now
It's ok Traveller. There are some things tp avoid during these days like heavy lifting, "dead lifts" (bending over and lifting a weight - ALWAYS bend with your knees!), sudden twisting movements. If you're taking regular voltaren for back pain/injuries, you may find that AF is particularly heavy and clotty. All you can do is ride it out. Long term, I found that clinical pilates helped me out - it trained my muscles to keep my discs in place. I hope your back settles soon!
Thanks for your reply MG. You're the go to person all things related to backs.
I've had quiet a few AF's since the accident, almost 2 years worth. I think with the herbs and supplements, things are starting to work the way they should. BUT I was assured that AF shouldn't be painful from both the Accupunturists and Naturopath.
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