Fibromyalgia pain

I have Fibromyalgia and deal with pain daily. During my cycle, pre menstrual, menstrual, and ovulation my pain increases greatly. I talked to my OBGYN about the possibility the hormone fluctuation is causing my fibro to flare? His response was that he knows nothing about Fibro and can't confirm it, but it could be the pain of my cycle could just be that bad and it seems to correlate. I also have HPV that has been inactive for a long time but have had cervical laser surgery in the past. I am wondering if removing the ovaries is a good option or not? This is my only concern, otherwise I am good with my choice to have the surgery.

There's a 2006 journal article that may be of interest, "Sex hormones and pain in regularly menstruating women with fibromyalgia syndrome." Unfortunately, only the abstract is available for free. See http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17074627.

Hi (((goingforit)))!

You've asked a very good question. I think the article that (((SurprisedInNB))) linked accurately portrays my experience with fibromyalgia and hormones. I have other autoimmune issues as well like interstitial cyctitis, migraines, thyroid problems, and allergies. I thought like you, that maybe hormone surges caused fibro flares. However, my research and my experience indicate that it is not the case. Here's what seems to trigger my flares, trauma, stress, pain, inactivity, too much activity, and some medications. I did not have the option of keeping my ovaries when I had my hysterectomy, although I would have if I could have. Without them, I still have fibro flares. My symptoms were worse during my periods, but I think that is because of the terrible pain and cramping I had with periods. For me, once something hurts, everything decides to hurt. My arthritis kicks in, my fibro goes nuts, it is like a cascade. I think that hormones may play a role, but only to the point that with periods and pain, comes stress. Stress can cause fibro to flare. Now without ovaries, and being on a consistent dose of hormones with few fluctuations in hormone levels, it took a long time to get this way, I found that I still have fibro flares. Removing the ovaries doesn't do the trick or even help. As a matter of fact, I think it makes things worse. Here's why: When some women have low estrogen, their joints aches and they get anxiety. That will trigger a fibro flare for me. There are also some serious downsides to having the ovaries removed including sexual issues, heart problems, cognitive problems, emotional problems, and an increased probability or dying sooner than women who retained their ovaries. HRT is not always easy to balance. Of course there are many women on this site who have managed to get by without hormone replacement, and some struggle. I spent nearly all year last year trying to find some balance. I suggest that you speak to an autoimmune specialist who can work with your surgeon to keep fibro issues under control before and immediately after surgery. That doctor can also advise you on how hormones may affect fibro. For me, losing the ovaries did not help the fibro at all. I do believe that in my case at least, the pain and stress of menstruation was what caused my monthly flares, not fluctuating hormones. I had plenty of hormone fluctuations trying to get my hormones balanced, and my fibro did not react to each fluctuation. My advice is to keep the ovaries if they are healthy, and definitely seek out a doctor who can provide you with advice about fibro.

I am very glad you found us! I have an autoimmune disease which presents similar to Lupus. I was concerned my surgery would cause a flare. I didn't flare up, but I do believe my recovery was longer because of it, and I seemed to have worse pain & pain for longer than the other ladies on my recovery thread. I also am HPV+ and have had treatment on my cervix.

Your rheumatologist/autoimmune specialist would be the best person to address your questions to regarding your cycle causing flares, rather than your OB/GYN. have you discussed your surgery with your rheumatologist yet? It's important to see if s/he has any concerns regarding your upcoming surgery and if s/he wants to review any meds you may be taking. When you go for your pre op and interview with your anesthesiologist, make sure he is aware of all your fibro concerns. I have Raynauds secondary to my autoimmune disease, and that was very important for him to know.

Fibro
Chronic health concern

Deciding whether to keep your ovaries is a very big decision, and one which can have a major impact on your life. Ovaries play a part in our physical, mental and sexual health. HRT may be an option, but finding the right hormone balance can be difficult for some women. It's a personal decision that you will need to make along with your specialist. Do your research and make a list of your questions and concerns.

Should I keep my healthy ovaries?

I wish you the very best with your decisions, your surgery, and your recovery.