Crohn's & Menstrual Cycle

Posted By Jackie on July 26, 1998 at 01:00:44:







First, I would like to thank you for your response to my question on 7/3/98 regarding anal reconstruction surgery.  After my husband read your response, we discussed it at length & I'm pretty sure that an ileostomy would be in my best interest.  I saw my GI on 7/24 but forgot to ask him about something.  Can Crohn's effect your menstrual cycle?  I'm 42 yrs. old, definitely not pregnant, have been regular (every 28 days) since my first period at the age of 11, never have cramps, had my tubes tied after the birth of my 3rd daughter 12/91.  I have not had a period since May.  4 days ago I started have scant amout of blood tinged mucous but that stopped today.  I don't believe it's the beginning of menopause because I don't have any of the other signs of menopause.  If all this is due to the Crohn's, do I just "wait & see"?  I should mention that because of the bowel incontinence, I have not had a pap smear since the birth of my 3rd daughter in 12/91.  I am very reluctant to submit to a pelvic exam because of the "strained position" you have to be in.
Thank you.