Before meds, Cushing’s disease resulted in the loss of my period
The effects on my menstrual cycle have been challenging to navigate
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Cushing’s disease has affected my menstrual cycle since I got sick. I was diagnosed in 2020, but my first symptom occurred in 2018, when I stopped getting my period. Since there are many factors that can cause a missed period, I didn’t know why it was happening at first. I took a pregnancy test, and when it was negative, I decided that I was stressed and put the issue aside.
Six months went by, and my period never came back. As other symptoms appeared, I realized that the loss of my period might be connected to whatever was going on with my health. At that point, I was extremely sick, and despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get my period to start again. I didn’t have one for three years.
Medication
Now that I’m on Cushing’s medication, I get my period, though it stops when I go off my meds for testing or surgery (and, of course, during pregnancy). I appreciate having it back because my cycle helps to regulate my hormones, but my periods are much more intense now than they were before their initial disappearance.
I get very intense cramps. I have to take two different types of pain medication to feel better, and I usually spend the first day of my period bedridden. I use a lot of heat therapy, such as baths, hot water bottles, and heating pads, but it’s still immensely painful. I also have a much heavier flow and more clotting these days, so tampons are almost impossible for me to wear. I have to stick with pads and cups.
Some people choose to take hormonal birth control to help reduce heavy bleeding and pain. However, because some hormonal contraceptives can affect cortisol levels, I’ve opted not to use them.
Fertility
A lack of periods can affect fertility. In my case, I also wasn’t ovulating, and so I developed calcified fibroids. I couldn’t take my Cushing’s medication during conception or pregnancy, so getting pregnant “naturally” wasn’t an option for me. Because of that, my partner and I decided to have our beautiful daughter through in vitro fertilization (IVF). I have heard of Cushing’s patients who were able to have a baby without assisted reproductive technology, but many more have needed fertility meds, intrauterine insemination, or IVF.
Tracking
Period tracking is also difficult. I use the app Stardust, but even when I’m on my medication, my period is no longer regular. I always have to be prepared for it.
Cushing’s disease affects much more than people realize. I’m glad I’ve learned how to manage my menstrual cycle, even if it’s frustrating at times.
You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.
Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.
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