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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by shelby on January 29, 2001, at 11:01:32
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
I don't know if you live in the States or Canada but I was looking for the same answers about pregnancy and anti-depressents. I phoned a hospital in, I think, Toronto and they answered that I could take elavil will pregnant. But, of course, you should do some searching and ask your doctor questions.
I also became depressed after the birth of my son. I have a history in my family of depression and it was triggered about 3 years after his birth from a death in the family.
So, there are answers out there, you just have to search. Also, don't be intimidated or scared by what people say or recommend. I've been there and have found that what works for one person, does not for another. It is just trial and error.
Good luck.
Shelby
Posted by Wendy on January 29, 2001, at 15:51:02
In reply to Re: PMDD:So many questions!, posted by shelby on January 29, 2001, at 11:01:32
> >Also, don't be intimidated or scared by what people say or recommend.< <This is sound advice. Some people speak with athority when, in actuality, they have no real knowledge on the subject.
> >I've been there and have found that what works for one person, does not for another. It is just trial and error.< <
This, IMO, is also very true. What your own system might accept is not necessarily what another with the same symptoms does. It's a tough road, but giving up after only one try on a medication is not the wise choice. If you've made it this far, why go back to what you know is an unacceptable way to function?
Posted by ms. b. on January 30, 2001, at 12:21:04
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
Hi Jules,
Run, do not walk, to the nearest bookstore (or hop on Amazon.com) and buy the recent book by Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, called:
When Words are not Enough: the Women's Prescription for Depression and Anxiety. (New York: Broadway Books, a division of Bantam/Doubleday/Dell, 1997)
From the blurb on the back: "Valerie Davis Raskin is one of the nation's leading experts on the impact of psychiatric drugs on women. A Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Chicago, she is the co-author of This Isn't What I Expected, a guide to postpartum depression..."
Specifically for you, Jules, is Ch. 11, "I want to have a baby: guidelines for medication use during pregnancy." Her main points are that: you shouldn't assume you have to choose between alleviating your illness and having a baby, that many medications for depression and anxiety (also used for what you have - PMDD) do not appear to increase the baseline risk of physical birth defects, that studies have neither proven nor disproven the possibility of harmful effects of medications on the developing fetal brain, etc.
She recommends that each woman's situation be considered on a case by case basis, balancing untreated illness with the so-far theoretical risks of taking medication while pregnant. She says also that cultural biases against women with emotional illnesses becoming mothers makes women wait far too long to report problems to their doctors in the first place. And then they don't get the treatment they should because doctors tell them to hold out for as long as they can against medication...
So Jules, you're doing really well to find out all you can beforehand and make the best decision for you and your family. In my personal opinion, and please don't take this the wrong way, it's not fair either to your husband or for your new baby to have a wife or mother who's at her wit's end for 3 weeks out of 4. Heck, it's not fair to you! And if you feel so out of control that you feel you can't drive safely, it's a very REAL risk to yourself and your infant. That would be enough for me to get the medication necessary. Your OB/GYN should be able to refer you to a good psychiatrist or psychopharmacologist who can answer your questions and prescribe you something, if you choose that route.
My own depression developed while I was pregnant, and Raskin talks about this in detail, too. Amazing how our bodies and chemistries are all so varied!
All the best, and let us know how it turns out for you in your search for some answers...
B.
> Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> Thank you.
> Jules
> Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> Thank you.
> Jules
Posted by Jackster on January 31, 2001, at 0:54:07
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
I've never been able to figure out why I developed agoraphobia with panic attacks - apparently it usually starts with a trauma. Then I started realising that my panic attacks were worse just before my period, and that they started about the age of 13 (the onset of pubity). I'm now convinced it's something to do with hormones, but can't seem to find anymore related information.
Posted by Annie1962 on January 31, 2001, at 1:38:32
In reply to Re: PMDD:So many questions! » Jules726, posted by ms. b. on January 30, 2001, at 12:21:04
Hi Everyone,
I just finished reading threads from the beginning and did not see any mention of acne as one of the many symtoms. Does anyone else experience all of the symptoms with the addition of painful cystic acne, my skin is clear for 10 days and then my cycle hits and I develope a 3rd eye or extra chin, which is filled with fuild and grows to the size of a marble? I have always had Problems with my cycle since I started at age 11, the acne didn't start until after my 1st child at age 27. I did have thyroid problems and had a total thyroidectomy last June, now on a combo of T3 and T4. My symptoms seem to be getting worse with each passing month and many Doctors later I still suffer 20 days out of the month. I have been to Shrinks, Gyns, Internists, all with their own theories and prescribtions, but to no avail. I have even been told that "God helps those who help themselves" or my favorite, " Your acne is caused because you don't like yourself". Ten days out of each month I'm the greatest Mom, Wife, Friend etc. and I like myself, it's when Dr. Jekyl meets Mr. Hide that all heck breaks loose.
Has anyone tried a total Vegan diet? Or any other natural remedies >
Thanks,
Ann >
Hi Jules,
>
> Run, do not walk, to the nearest bookstore (or hop on Amazon.com) and buy the recent book by Valerie Davis Raskin, MD, called:
>
> When Words are not Enough: the Women's Prescription for Depression and Anxiety. (New York: Broadway Books, a division of Bantam/Doubleday/Dell, 1997)
>
> From the blurb on the back: "Valerie Davis Raskin is one of the nation's leading experts on the impact of psychiatric drugs on women. A Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Chicago, she is the co-author of This Isn't What I Expected, a guide to postpartum depression..."
>
> Specifically for you, Jules, is Ch. 11, "I want to have a baby: guidelines for medication use during pregnancy." Her main points are that: you shouldn't assume you have to choose between alleviating your illness and having a baby, that many medications for depression and anxiety (also used for what you have - PMDD) do not appear to increase the baseline risk of physical birth defects, that studies have neither proven nor disproven the possibility of harmful effects of medications on the developing fetal brain, etc.
>
> She recommends that each woman's situation be considered on a case by case basis, balancing untreated illness with the so-far theoretical risks of taking medication while pregnant. She says also that cultural biases against women with emotional illnesses becoming mothers makes women wait far too long to report problems to their doctors in the first place. And then they don't get the treatment they should because doctors tell them to hold out for as long as they can against medication...
>
> So Jules, you're doing really well to find out all you can beforehand and make the best decision for you and your family. In my personal opinion, and please don't take this the wrong way, it's not fair either to your husband or for your new baby to have a wife or mother who's at her wit's end for 3 weeks out of 4. Heck, it's not fair to you! And if you feel so out of control that you feel you can't drive safely, it's a very REAL risk to yourself and your infant. That would be enough for me to get the medication necessary. Your OB/GYN should be able to refer you to a good psychiatrist or psychopharmacologist who can answer your questions and prescribe you something, if you choose that route.
>
> My own depression developed while I was pregnant, and Raskin talks about this in detail, too. Amazing how our bodies and chemistries are all so varied!
>
> All the best, and let us know how it turns out for you in your search for some answers...
> B.
>
>
> > Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> > I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> > I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> > I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> > My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> > We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> > I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> > While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> > He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> > I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> > Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> > I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> > However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> > The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> > Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> > I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> > It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> > On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> > And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> > Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> > Thank you.
> > Jules
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> > Hi. This is my first time posting a message anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> > I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> > I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> > I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> > My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> > We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> > I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> > While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> > He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> > I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> > Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> > I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> > However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> > The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> > Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> > I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> > It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> > On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> > And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> > Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> > Thank you.
> > Jules
Posted by Wendy on January 31, 2001, at 7:18:07
In reply to Re: PMDD:Acne,diet help!, posted by Annie1962 on January 31, 2001, at 1:38:32
> >the acne didn't start until after my 1st child at age 27.< <
Same here! Who ever heard of a pimple on a nursing mom?!? I was told it was perfectly normal and would eventually go away. No such luck. Nearly 7 years later, and I still get (mild) acne; usually shows up 7-10 days prior to my cycle starting, and clears up shortly afterward.
> >I have even been told that "God helps those who help themselves" or my favorite, " Your acne is caused because you don't like yourself".< <
Hmmm. Even taken with a grain of salt, those comments still reek of idiocy!!!!! Pay no mind to those who "quote" like that. It usually means they have nothing intelligent to say.
> >Ten days out of each month I'm the greatest Mom, Wife, Friend etc. and I like myself, it's when Dr. Jekyl meets Mr. Hide that all heck breaks loose.< <
Are you on any meds with regard to these symptoms now?
> >Or any other natural remedies< <
I found that my skin clears up considerably in the summer months when I spend lots of time in the garden and get more sun. I also went tanning for 15 days and had clear skin for an entire month - right through a cycle! So, perhaps sun therapy would also be a consideration for you. (spf/UV protection didn't change the effects, but still kept my skin protected)
Posted by shellie on February 1, 2001, at 11:36:09
In reply to Re: PMDD:Acne,diet help!, posted by Wendy on January 31, 2001, at 7:18:07
I use retin A (a prescription) and it works wonders for acne, as long as you don't have very dry skin.
I also use products by Sandra Cope (you can look her up on the internet)--she has a product called clear skin which is natural and magic (it gets rid of my occational acne in two days), and I also love her aloe spectrum cleaning cream. Her product line is also available at Fresh Fields and Whole Foods if you're on the east coast, or by mail from her web site. All her products have an aloe base.
But if I was to pick one product I'd get my doctor to write a prescription for retin-A. Shellie
Posted by natg on February 1, 2001, at 12:57:23
In reply to Re: PMDD:Acne,diet help!, posted by Wendy on January 31, 2001, at 7:18:07
Hi,
I, too, suffer from horrid mood swings prior to my menses.
I have a question if you don't mind answering what kind of natural remedies help?Thanks, it is much appreciated.
Nat
Posted by ARR on February 1, 2001, at 13:25:29
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
Dear Jules,
This is also my first time posting anything on the internet, but I know that I have something to contribute to this conversation, so here goes. I really understand how debilitating this PMS can be but I am very hesitant to label it PMDD. It do not think that it is aptly identified as a mental illness. I know that there are many severe and debilitating emotional symptoms, and I certainly understand that their is an imbalance in the body's chemisty that contributes to it, but
jumping from that to conclusion that taking an anti-depressent is the solution is a leap I am not willing to make. As a health care practioner, I am part of a growing field called Functional Medicine which is based on the premise that symptoms such as PMS are the result of functional imbalances in the body's biochemistry that can be effectively identified and eliminated using a variety of lifestyle changes and what are frequently (but in my opinion erroneously thought of as "alternative" therapies)I have had a great deal of consistant success in helping women eliminate these symptons. It often takes more individualized analysis and recommendations than the simple "eat a good diet and take this herb" but it works effectively.
I'll write down a few of the approaches that I have found to be successful, and you can start looking into it: Correcting essential fatty acid imbalances often utilizing either Evening Primrose oil of EPA/DHA; improving hepatic detoxification; dietary changes that improve blood sugar balance; testing for and then correcting estrogen/progesterone levels using natural sources of progesterone. Dr. John Lee has written extensively about this, and I would suggest getting his book. Chasteberry is a very effective herb, as is a specific Chinese Herbal Formula formulated by a company called Metagenics ( which is a company that works with professionals and has a just released a new line of products for balancing hormones naturally that is cutting edge and very effective. You might check out the web site of Great Smokies Diagnostic Laboratories; they have developed a number of laboratory tests that go far beyond what are typically offered.
These are just a few ideas; I hope that they lead you towards some real solutions. I've seen it happen again and again
Best of luck to you
> Hi. This is my first time posting a message
anywhere on the internet but I really need some answers.
> I am 28 years old and have been suffering these terrible symptoms since I was about 12.
> I'll never forget how one day I woke up and all of a sudden had no self confidence, began having panic attacks, couldn't control my temper and overall was just not a happy person.
> I guess I should start on how I found this message board.
> My husband and I just had our first child in June of 2000 (which since I was pregnant I have had none of those feelings).
> We would like to start trying to have another so I went to the doctor to see if there was any way to tell whether or not I was ovulating(I've been breast feeding exclusively until about a month ago--now only twice a day).
> I still have not menstruated since I got pregnant but those awful feelings are back and surprise, surprise, yesterday I got my period.
> While I was at the doctors I described the awful emotional turmoil I go through every month due to my period (my husband jokes that he only gets one good week out of me a month because I begin acting crazy two weeks before and the week of).
> He didn't come out and say that he thought it was PMDD but he gave me some samples of Celexa to try.
> I wanted to do some research before I began taking them because my doctor said there wasn't enough literature out to say whether or not it's safe to take while trying to get pregnant (but there are no studies showing negative effects).
> Reading through some other message boards I became extremely scared due to all the awful side effects that people were experiencing.
> I am a Masters student in exercise physiology so I know the benefits of exercise and eating healthy.
> However, I know there is some chemical imbalance within me (and I have always known but everyone told me I was just sensitive)and exercise and diet alone is just not enough.
> The past 17 months have been wonderful due to not having to deal with this but these past couple weeks have been brutal(on myself and on my husband).
> Could someone please tell me what they know of the available drugs out there that may not interfere with me getting pregnant or while being pregnant(I feel if I do not do something that I will not be able to become pregnant just due to stress)?
> I do have to say that I feel so much better finally knowing that this has been something that I couldn't control and that there ared others who are dealing with these issues as well.
> It is amazing how disruptive it can be to your life and relationships.
> On one of the boards someone was talking about that they even need to be driven around by someone else when this happens.
> And it's funny because I told my husband yesterday that I should not have been in the car because I was out of control.
> Well I'll be looking forward to hearing some news.
> Thank you.
> Jules
Posted by LauraD on February 1, 2001, at 17:57:10
In reply to PMDD:So many questions!, posted by Jules726 on January 27, 2001, at 19:14:46
I'm currently reading a book titled "Women's Moods, What every woman must know about hormones, the brain and emotional health."
It is by Deborah Sichel, M.D. and Jeanne Watson Driscoll, M.S., R.N., C.N.It focuses quite a bit on PMDD and how to diagnose it and how to curb it. They mention that Prozac is OK to take when you're pregnant.
I study Microbiology and prefer scientific texts. This one goes into detail about the hormones and how they interact with your brain. I really recommend the book. (I got it at Border's Book and Music)
laura
Posted by anita on February 2, 2001, at 8:44:59
In reply to Re: PMDD:Acne,diet help!, posted by Wendy on January 31, 2001, at 7:18:07
Hi,
Just thought I'd add my two cents ... regarding getting acne before your period, I've found that spironolactone helps. It decreases the type of testosterone that can cause oily skin and breakouts. It's also a diuretic, which helps with bloating, but you'll pee a lot at first and feel thirsty.
I've tried everything for acne (antibiotics, Retin-A, etc.) and this stuff really does work. If you get your testosterone levels checked a few days before your period and they are higher than normal, I'd give spiro a try.
anita
Posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 13:51:10
In reply to Re: Sarafem=Prozac(np), posted by Wendy on January 10, 2001, at 20:09:45
Wow, I am not alone! I came to this site in hopes to find some first hand feedback from women who who have tried Sarafem to help with the curse of PMDD. I have recently been given a Rx from my
Dr. for the drug, but I am very hesitant to take it. Probably because of its association with Prozac, and fear of the possible side effects such as decrease in libido. I, too, am curious how women who are taking
Sarafem would describe its effects. Meanwhile, I will be reading those articles about PMDD that have been previoulsy posted... Best wishes, Jennifer
Posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 13:56:39
In reply to Re: Sarafem=Prozac(np), posted by Wendy on January 10, 2001, at 20:09:45
Wow, I am not alone! I came to this site in hopes to find some first hand feedback from women who who have
tried Sarafem to help with the curse of PMDD. I have recently been given a Rx from my
Dr. for the drug, but I am very hesitant to take it. Probably because of its association with Prozac, and fear of the
possible side effects such as decrease in libido. I, too, am curious how women who are taking
Sarafem would describe its effects. Meanwhile, I will be reading those articles about PMDD that have been
previoulsy posted... Best wishes
Posted by Wendy on February 2, 2001, at 16:43:33
In reply to Prescribed Sarafem,hesitant » Wendy, posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 13:51:10
> >I have recently been given a Rx from my Dr. for the drug, but I am very hesitant to take it. Probably because of its association with Prozac, and fear of the possible side effects such as decrease in libido.< <
Well, while I can't speak for the drug Sarafem, I can speak for Paxil. Not only has it NOT decreased my libido, but the positive effects of 3 1/2 weeks on this med has helped me so much that the 'intimate' aspect of my marriage has become much more comfortable and 'wanted'. I think a healthy sense of self is the main reason for this; I'm much calmer and therefore less agitated in all areas of my day to day life now.
Posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 20:16:57
In reply to Re: Prescribed Sarafem,hesitant, posted by Wendy on February 2, 2001, at 16:43:33
> > >I have recently been given a Rx from my Dr. for the drug, but I am very hesitant to take it. Probably because of its association with Prozac, and fear of the possible side effects such as decrease in libido.< <
>
> Well, while I can't speak for the drug Sarafem, I can speak for Paxil. Not only has it NOT decreased my libido, but the positive effects of 3 1/2 weeks on this med has helped me so much that the 'intimate' aspect of my marriage has become much more comfortable and 'wanted'. I think a healthy sense of self is the main reason for this; I'm much calmer and therefore less agitated in all areas of my day to day life now.You made a good point. Now I am begining to realize that the potential for harm is greater in not doing anything than in trying out new ways correct the present problem.
Posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 20:23:58
In reply to Re: Prescribed Sarafem,hesitant, posted by Wendy on February 2, 2001, at 16:43:33
> > >I have recently been given a Rx from my Dr. for the drug, but I am very hesitant to take it. Probably because of its association with Prozac, and fear of the possible side effects such as decrease in libido.< <
>
> Well, while I can't speak for the drug Sarafem, I can speak for Paxil. Not only has it NOT decreased my libido, but the positive effects of 3 1/2 weeks on this med has helped me so much that the 'intimate' aspect of my marriage has become much more comfortable and 'wanted'. I think a healthy sense of self is the main reason for this; I'm much calmer and therefore less agitated in all areas of my day to day life now.I am brand new at this posting thing. I forgot to tell you thanks! And wish you continued success with this. M
Posted by Wendy on February 3, 2001, at 7:09:44
In reply to thanks » Wendy, posted by Marchelle on February 2, 2001, at 20:23:58
> >I am brand new at this posting thing. I forgot to tell you thanks! And wish you continued success with this. M< <
You are most welcome! Having this board to read was one of the first steps to 'doing' something for me as well. I'm fortunate that the med my own doctor prescribed was right for me at first try. Even my kids (14 1/2 and 6 1/2) have noticed the positive changes.
Son to dad: "Geez, mom didn't even spaz on me about it!?" That in itself sais a lot!
Best of luck to you as well.
Wendy
Posted by bobbin on February 5, 2001, at 11:10:11
In reply to Re: thanks, posted by Wendy on February 3, 2001, at 7:09:44
> > >I am brand new at this posting thing. I forgot to tell you thanks! And wish you continued success with this. M< <
>
> You are most welcome! Having this board to read was one of the first steps to 'doing' something for me as well. I'm fortunate that the med my own doctor prescribed was right for me at first try. Even my kids (14 1/2 and 6 1/2) have noticed the positive changes.
>
> Son to dad: "Geez, mom didn't even spaz on me about it!?" That in itself sais a lot!
>
> Best of luck to you as well.
>
> WendyWould you be able to mention the prescription your doc gave you? I'm 44, tried everything, prescribed and alternative, been afraid of antidepressants but after 7 years of this, I'm ready to try. Have Prozac, Elavil but wouldn't take it. What about others? Sarafem, Paxil, etc.? Any input about side effects, whether or not it worked for you would be great. Thanks.
Posted by Marchelle on February 5, 2001, at 11:55:09
In reply to Re: thanks, posted by bobbin on February 5, 2001, at 11:10:11
The Rx that I was given is 20mg Sarafem, containing the same active ingredient as Prosac, but I read in previous posts that Sarafem possibly contains different compounds. The doctor told me to take one a day for the next two months then go and see her again, then I would take the Sarafem only the week before my period (when I experience my PMDD symptoms).
I still haven't begun taking the Sarafem, I have some big events about to commence and don't want to start until after they are over. But if this any consolation, I spoke with my fiance the other day about my concerns with taking an anti-depressent and its side effects. He has had experience with Prozac, and revealed that he did not notice any decrease
in energy or sex drive on the lower doses, only until a period when he was taking twice the dose did he feel totally lethargic. I don't plan to start the Sarafem until late March, but I will be glad to check back in with how it goes... Hope this is helpful.
> Would you be able to mention the prescription your doc gave you? I'm 44, tried everything, prescribed and alternative, been afraid of antidepressants but after 7 years of this, I'm ready to try. Have Prozac, Elavil but wouldn't take it. What about others? Sarafem, Paxil, etc.? Any input about side effects, whether or not it worked for you would be great. Thanks.
Posted by bobbin on February 5, 2001, at 12:00:32
In reply to Re: thanks, posted by Marchelle on February 5, 2001, at 11:55:09
Thanks, I appreciate any input. I'm at the point where the doctors are fighting over a total (no ovary) hysterectomy and drugs and I've been reticent to go either way but I've got to do something. Right now chocolate and xanax are helping momentarily, maybe I should get ok with that.
Posted by ARR on February 5, 2001, at 14:57:55
In reply to Re: thanks, posted by bobbin on February 5, 2001, at 12:00:32
Before you do anything that drastic please go to the web site www.gdsl.com and write in PMS in the condition box. The information is invaluable and will hopefully lead you to some answers.
> Thanks, I appreciate any input. I'm at the point where the doctors are fighting over a total (no ovary) hysterectomy and drugs and I've been reticent to go either way but I've got to do something. Right now chocolate and xanax are helping momentarily, maybe I should get ok with that.
Posted by Wendy on February 5, 2001, at 17:37:17
In reply to Re: thanks, posted by bobbin on February 5, 2001, at 11:10:11
I'm on Paxil 20mg/day. It IS most certainly working for me! I noticed a marked difference in my 'self' by the second week.
While I've never had my hormone levels checked, I have recently been told that PMDD and associated disorders/symptoms are often linked to unstable levels. I'm one of the fortunate ones so far; the meds I'm taking have proven to be a working positive in my situation.
Posted by Paulette on February 8, 2001, at 20:58:10
In reply to Bobbin, posted by Wendy on February 5, 2001, at 17:37:17
> I'm on Paxil 20mg/day. It IS most certainly working for me! I noticed a marked difference in my 'self' by the second week.
>
> While I've never had my hormone levels checked, I have recently been told that PMDD and associated disorders/symptoms are often linked to unstable levels. I'm one of the fortunate ones so far; the meds I'm taking have proven to be a working positive in my situation.Hello everyone, I am so glad to find this board, you have no idea...and to think I have suffered so many years too.....not a clue....
Anyway..I have been on Sarafem 20mg for 1 month and 10 mg for the two months prior...while the 10 mg did help with the crying spells...havent had one since November! It didnt do much for the anxiety or the anger, moody outbursts etc...that is when the doctor upped it to the 20mg...and I am still waiting for relief. The medication claims to help with bloating...nope....and it claims to help with breast tenderness...yeah and no...this month had only ONE really bad day that I wanted to wrap up in an ace bandaid...then not bad at all...the other 2 months and years prior have consisted of a minimum of 8 days of it....still have had the outbursts this month, but may be just a bit better...things have to get real crazy here for me to go off...I think..think..I may be leveling off there...hopefully next month will tell....but the physical symptoms are atrocious! I am exhausted but have insomnia for about 5 days leading up to my cycle start...my bloating is horrible...even if I dont eat any salty stuff....my feet hurt so badley in the morning for 2 weeks prior to my period and for about 72 hours after that I hate getting up for work...just plain hate it...my hands hurt from the swelling...then by the time my period comes, I have a good 48 to 72 hours of cramping and hard bleeding that you would think I was in active labor most the time...it hurts to walk, to work, to lay down....
And I wonder why the doctor said I was not crazy, just depressed...I think I am more depressed now that I have been on this medicine and the physical symptoms just dont seem to be going anywhere....the simple fact that I feel like I am in an alien body is enough to make me depressed...I have a 20 month old daughter that I cannot chase and play with like I did with my 12 and 13 year olds...it just irriates me...
So with Sarafem...unless the next couple of months shows some improvement..then I would have to say that they emotional part is doing much better, but the physical is not...and I would love any suggestions or help for getting that to ease up...Doctor said TAKE CALCIUM...ok...done that too....have had a lap-scopy recently and found fibroids on my uterus outside, he burnt those off...absolutely no more kids he says...and then I had a mass on my cervix that he removed and I have to have another test on...but he really didnt find much..he is thinking of doing a procedure called an endometrial ablation...they pretty much burn out the inside of the uterus and women either have no more periods or light ones with very little cramping if any...anyone had this done and is it true???
Any help is much much much grateful!
And guys...think you could come talk to my husband??? He doesnt understand at all and he then just kind of shrinks away...not too bad..just doesnt know what to do....I am so glad to know that you are so supportive of your wives and any advice there would be appreciated too...Thanks!
Posted by jules726 on February 9, 2001, at 12:06:38
In reply to Re: Bobbin, posted by Paulette on February 8, 2001, at 20:58:10
I want to thank everyone for all the advice and support that I have received since posting my first message.
I'm still so confused about whether or not to try the medication that has been subscribed to me(Celexa). But after doing a bunch of research I've decided to go back in and speak to my doctor about what my options are. I have an appointment on Tuesday. I'm so glad that someone has finally posted something about Sarafem because I was thinking of suggesting this to my doctor. However, I don't want to be tired all the time and feel like I'm a zombie.I do also want to respond to the suggestion of trying to change ones diet and lifestyle. I understand this completely but for some it is not enough. And trust me, I am not one who wants to be on any kind of medication. Alternative therapy may be an answer but none of these herbs have been tested and who knows what kind of side effects they may have, especially since I am thinking about having another baby.
As for all you husbands out there who have to deal with our Jekyll and Hyde personalities, I know it's rough but please try to remember that it's not something we can control. Also, though it's hard on you it's even harder on us.
Well I'll be checking the boards for updates from everyone. Thanks.
Jules
Posted by ARR on February 9, 2001, at 14:11:25
In reply to Thanks!, posted by jules726 on February 9, 2001, at 12:06:38
Dear Jules;
I totally agree with you that simply trying to change one's diet and lifestyle may not be enough to handle severe symptoms, but there is an approach to the treatment of this condition that although it doesn't use anti-depressants is very effective because it is based on scientifically validated tests and protocols.
Severe PMS symptoms are of course due to biochemical imbalances in the body but it is much to simplistic to assume that it is all caused by a seratonin deficiency. Discovering what the imbalance is and then correcting it, is the key to successful resolution of symptoms. To learn about the biochemical imbalances that can create the apparent neurotransmitter imbalance, please go to the Web site of Great Smokies Diagnostic Laboratory (gsdl.com) and type in PMS in the condition box.
ARR
I want to thank everyone for all the advice and support that I have received since posting my first message.
> I'm still so confused about whether or not to try the medication that has been subscribed to me(Celexa). But after doing a bunch of research I've decided to go back in and speak to my doctor about what my options are. I have an appointment on Tuesday. I'm so glad that someone has finally posted something about Sarafem because I was thinking of suggesting this to my doctor. However, I don't want to be tired all the time and feel like I'm a zombie.
>
> I do also want to respond to the suggestion of trying to change ones diet and lifestyle. I understand this completely but for some it is not enough. And trust me, I am not one who wants to be on any kind of medication. Alternative therapy may be an answer but none of these herbs have been tested and who knows what kind of side effects they may have, especially since I am thinking about having another baby.
>
> As for all you husbands out there who have to deal with our Jekyll and Hyde personalities, I know it's rough but please try to remember that it's not something we can control. Also, though it's hard on you it's even harder on us.
>
> Well I'll be checking the boards for updates from everyone. Thanks.
> Jules
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