irregular periods

[youcandoit]

Hello,
Since I have started Atkins, my periods have been strangely out of whack. I have actually stopped menstruating many years ago (cause unknown) and have been taking HRTs since which will induce it. Currently I am taking Allese (low dose). Oddly though I have been spotting while on the Allese. Has anyone else have this happen? Does anyone have suggestions for other HRT options that may be better than taking the pill (that doesn't discourage weight loss)? I will be following up with my doctor but if anyone has any experiences to share it would be very much appreciated.

Thank you so much!

[jimmie 48]

no advice except to be open and honest with your doctor. you are young to be on HRT and long term usage would scare the daylights out of me. and yes, i am female and not just a guy poking around. LOL

atkins does tend to cause a few irregularity problems, that eventually clear up, but your case may include other problems.

[youcandoit]

Thank you for the quick reply! I will make an appointment with my doctor and see what happens from there. It does concern me to be on HRTs. I have been on them (birth control version) for over 20 years. I do get regular check ups and I have been in good health. The main reason I take them is to curb the occurrence of ostioporosis (spelling?). I have consulted with a few doctors and specialists over the years and all have indicated that this route is the best for me. However, I have that nagging feeling that there must be alternative.
Thank you for the reply!

[Razzle39]

I have some experience with many female issues as I worked for an OB/GYN at Yale as her personal assistant for 3 years. I followed her from office to operating room to labor and delivery.

Placing you on ALesse to regulate your periods is a normal plan for someone with irregularities or no menstruation. That is also a low dose pill and one of choice.

I think I can explain why you have had menstrual changes since you started Atkins one month ago.

Now here comes some interesting things about Estrogen. Did you know that excess Estrogen in our bodies is stored in our fat cells? Thats right! Burning fat in our body can release excess Estrogen into our system. Its not alot or harmful however it can trigger a spotting response or all the PMS moodiness, weepiness, etc... When our estrogen levels drop and our progesterone levels rise it produces menstruation. By burning fats and releasing little spikes of Estrogen the body responds in some people by spotting when the estrogen comes back down. Your body has been regulated by a pill so these little spikes of Estrogen may be confusing it. These things usually right themselves within a few months.

I hope this info helps. Make sure you do contact your doctor to report this change. Keep a little calndar and write down what days you are spotting etc... That will be very helpful for her/him.

[youcandoit]

Thank you so much Razzle39!
That information was very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to respond to my question. I will check in with my doctor but your explanation really makes a lot of sense.
I feel much better....