Glucose level and menstrual cycle

[DLA]

Was recently dx as Type II diabetic and have had 2 menstrual cycles in this time.  I take 500mg of Metformin 2X daily.  I test in the morning when I get up and before I go to bed.  My levels are really good except when I'm menstrating.  During this time I don't do anything differently.   Read that this can be a problem and should adjust insulin accordingly, but I don't take insulin.  Is it normal to take larger doses of Metformin at this time of the month?   Is there anything else that can help?  Don't know if it makes a difference, but I also have PCOS and probable endometriosis.  Will find out for sure next month.

Thank you for your time.

[DLA]

They go from fasting around 100 to around 150 and at bedtime from about 145 to 180.  Very significant.  I make sure I really stick to my diet and exercise, but it still spikes way up there.

Thank you.

[Anita Ramsetty, MD]

Hi,
Glucose levels can change during and around the menstrual cycle due to hormonal shifts. How high are your levels going? This should determine if you need to increase the metformin and by how much. If the increase is only by a few points, you may be able to manage this with some dietary changes around that time, but if there are significant increases then speak with your doctor about changes in your meds around that time.
Take care.