Colds with Menstrual Cycle

[3dMommy]

Every month when I come on my cycle I seem to catch a cold. Is there really a link? What can I do to try to head it off before I get sick? Is this normal or do I have an immune system issue?

[AngelPiggle]

Ive been sat sniffling for a few days wondering if theres a pattern. Finally I realised every period for the past few months I've been getting a sore throat, and stuffy nose, with hot/cold flushes. Today I'm sad to find so many people suffering with the same symptoms with no real cure. But I'm happy I'm not the only one. I haven't been to the doctor this time. I was diagnosed with a throat infection last time and given antibiotics which didn't really help. I have been drinking lots of Pomegranate juice however which eases my throat to bearable. Unfortunately when I stop it comes back. I'm trying every remedy the internet throws at me and not having much success. Hopefully I'll find one that works soon and I will report back. At least were all in this together, even if the doctors wont make the connection between the two.

[clairex55]

I'm on the contraceptive pill and a few days after I have taken my last pill of the packet I start with a cold. It's not every month, however, it's more often than not. I'm 34 and have been like this from my early twenties.

[letslookintoit]

Wonderful insight; it is unfortunate that doctors in general do not attempt to connect hormones with sickness; unfortunately diagnosis tends to focus solely on functioning mechanics of the sloughing of the uterine lining.. so prescribe treatments tend to be hormone therapy (birth control) ablation, hysterectomy, when a thoughtful intellectual rationale for monthly symptoms is not tested;
I get sick as well, with congestion, temperature changes, sleeplessness, and general aches, especially in my back; it is hard to not feel like a hypochondriac;
It would be nice if there were more articles on the functioning of the endocrine system as it relates to the menstrual cycle.  

[anj98290]

I don't know how I just put this together. I get a cold EVERY period for about 9 years now; Wall of fatigue hits, tickle in my throat, runny nose, congestion, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, Im couch bound fatigued for days. I'm out of work for at least 3 days. My cycles are becoming longer, 5 weeks... I eat very healthy, no refined sugars, no gluten, no dairy. I run 3 miles 4 days a weeks (except for my period week). Also interesting, never been pregnant, gave up trying years ago. Im 35. This all started about 9 years ago. Before that I was on birth control... coincidence? After reading all of your similar miseries I am suddenly very hopeful. Tomorrow morning I will purchase Vitex (chaste berry extract) and I might even start birth control. Birth control gave me migraines but Id rather have those than a cold that lasts week.... What infertile woman needs a period anyways?! Do they still have Depo injections? 3 months of no periods and cold sounds promising. Thank you all for you generous advice!!

[mrb1111]

The last 7-10 days before the onset of your cycle, your immune system weakens to protect a possible pregnancy from being destroyed. (Your body views the implantation as a foreign object.) Your sleep cycle may also be interupted. Once your body decides conception did not occur, you proceed to get your cycle. My hunch is, if you are exposed to viruses aroind or just before your immune system takes a nap, you get sick because you dont have what you need to defend yourself until your immune system rebuilds over the next week of your cycle. What helps me...take otc sleep meds to stay rested that week, hand sanitize constantly, and keep my work/home well washed and cleaned. If I slip up and slack off, I get sick. There are also suggestions of low calcium and vitD right before you menstruate and supplements are recommended.

[rivergal1962]

I am so glad I found this thread!  I was starting to think that I was loosing it. I'm 50 and Peri-menopausal.  This getting sick every time my period shows up (usually with a cold) had me wondering what the heck is wrong with me!  So, I guess it's good old hormones.  Doesn't make it any better, but at least I have some peace of mind.