female only Post-op menstruation question for women

gadgetlady · March 2, 2006

I've read that some have had their periods cease for a few months after surgery; this question is for those of you who did NOT have that happen.

I got my period right on schedule despite the surgery. I'm wondering if anyone has noticed any irregularities in their cycle AFTER the first month. The reason is dh and I use NFP (natural family planning) for birth control and if my cycle might be screwed up in future months, I need to know. Obviously, anything's possible, but I'm just trying to get a general idea of what others have gone through.

Thank!

princess_n_thep · March 2, 2006

I have noticed that my periods are MUCH heavier than pre band.

You also need to remember that the sudden drop in calories and weight loss can mess up your period any time in the first year. I would suggest using some type of additional contraceptive if that is an option for you. Something as simple as a condomn, the foam, or female diaphram if you are against other forms.

Many people say that the band is a "baby band" meaning that is "attracts" pregnancy. Actually, the weight loss and the stress on your menstration attracts the liklihood of conception. So be careful if you are not using any additional contraceptions and do not wish to be pregnant. Although, I assume that if you are using NFP that you would be happy with any outcome, pregnancy or not and would be accepting of either option.

Jill_S · March 2, 2006

My periods have been longer and heavier recently. The cycle days are the same but - wow.

I don't have cramps anymore though - not for the last six months. So I guess maybe it's an even trade

Dancer · March 2, 2006

I am so happy to find this topic!

I am 3 weeks post op and I am about 3 days late, but know there is no way I could be pregnant...was in the hospital for two days and then home recovering when I ovulated.

I am wondering if my period just might not show up??? Is it something I should call my GYN about?

Thank you SOOO much for your opinions! I was getting worried b/c my body is usually like clock work!

gadgetlady · March 2, 2006

Actually, Dancer, if you do a search you'll find a whole other thread about how many women skip their periods for a few months after surgery. I was glad to see that didn't happen with me but I was wondering if there were risidual effects as well.

I never understood why some women skipped their periods after surgery, because (from what I remember from pregnancy and starting my period up again even while breastfeeding) estrogen is stored up in fat stores. But I guess the trauma of surgery knocks some people off their cycle.

Thanks for the input, Jenna & Jill. I had MAJOR cramps this cycle (thank God for anaprox!) but my bleeding seems about normal. Some slight weirdness and changes, but nothing too concerning.

Jenna, I'm not opposed to condom, foam, diaphram etc. I just don't like them much ;-) I don't believe in the Pill, IUD, the patch, etc. because the are abortifacients.

I definitely do NOT want to get pregnant at my current weight. So we will be very careful for this first year -- thank you!

Dianechef · March 2, 2006

I have always worked like clockwork. My period came every 28 days. After surgery I had my period, but it lasted longer. The next month it came 2 days late & it's been a little wacky since. If you are doing Natural Family Planning, I would be VERY careful. Your cycle could be all messed up & you could get pregnant on accident. I've heard the band be called the fertility band because so many get pregnant after being banded.

Dancer · March 2, 2006

Diane - That is my main concern! We do use natural family planning, but I think we have decided to go back on birth control.

My PCP said that fertility rates go up (no joking) like 1000% after weight loss with the band...SCARY! He also called it the fertility band, too.

My surgron also said that he gets a lot of patients refered to him from Fertility specialists.

I sure hope my OB/GYN calls back soon!

bandayed · March 3, 2006

There is NO WAY that I would use NFP right now. I was banded in Oct and have had my period at least 8 separate times. I am not sure that all of these periods are related to ovulation or not. One medical professional told me it is due to all the progesterone and estrogen being released from the fat your body is shedding as you lose weight. Either way, with 4 kids already, I would not take a chance. If I were you I would use another method if a pregnancy would be difficult for you right now. Everyone is different, but my periods are on the increase rather than the decline.........

divaliciousdee · March 3, 2006

I had my sugery on Aug. 29, 2005. My period came as scheduled in September and October but in November and December a no show! I have been regular since January. I think the weight loss and the surgery causes a slight problem somehow.

Dancer · March 3, 2006

I agree with you all. I called the OB/GYN yesterday afternoon and am waiting on a call back with a birh control prescription.

Talked to hubby about it and while we don't like it, it really is the best option for now. The whole reason I did this was to loose weight and get healthy. I am only 3 weeks post op. I don't want to mess it up now! If I got pregnant before my first fill then it will be like starting all over!

Period still has not arrived, so I am considering her a no show. First time ever...in my life! So weird. The nurse did say it was totally normal.

I have read on other threads about the estrogen/progesteron releasing from the fat...guess I will have to do some more research on that...sounds interesting.

Makes sense though since I have lost 15.5 in three weeks...my body is still trying to figure out what the heck I did to it!