Migraines = no more Marvelon...advice please

Meringoo · 04-30-2008, 06:32 AM

Hi all! I've posted this in the BCP section too, but would like to hear from UK/Irish cysters too please...

I've just got back from the doctor and I'm really worried. I've been suffering with migraines and bad headaches, nausea as well as very bad pain in ovaries and lower back. I've been told to stop taking Marvelon (which up until recently seemed to be ok) and I am going back to my specialist for a review and to find a non-combined pill alternative that actually works.... Does this exist??

I'm really scared that I'll be very ill again, but understand that it's not worth the risk of having a stroke! Migraines run in my family. I never told the docs years ago that I suffered from them because I was younger and thought I was just stressed/depressed.

I'd like to hear from people with similar situations please....what do you take instead?

Thank you x x x

Eva37 · 04-30-2008, 09:17 AM

i cant take bcp either, makes my weight/bp go wayyy up. I have a mirena to help with my periods now. They are much lighter/less painful with the mirena.
eva

Tara x · 05-01-2008, 04:54 PM

Hi !

I don't know anything about Marvelon, but Migranes also run in my family and I also suffer with them, been suffering with them for as long as I can remember. Since changing my diet I've found that I hardly every get Migranes like I used to, which was maybe 3 times a week !! The main culprit was cheese !

Can't really help you with your situation but, if you feel painkillers aren't working for you when you do have a migrane, i do recommend Syndol, you can buy them at any Pharmacy. I've been on prescribed drugs, used all over the counter meds and Syndol is the only one that's worked for me ! My migrane goes away in 10 mins

lazybones · 05-01-2008, 05:22 PM

I suffer from mirgraines to , i put it down to BCPS but turns out i just get them ..
Jess x

Ihave2believe · 05-01-2008, 06:45 PM

I've never had migraines but I was interested in your post since you mentioned Marvelon. I used to take Marvelon but have just been recently ordered to stop as I had a stroke a little over 2 months ago. I was 28 when it happened and I've since turned 29. The docs can't figure out what caused my stroke because I'm just too young for this...they think it's either the birth control pill (I'm not trying to scare you) or genetics. I truly believe it's neither of these but something in me tells me that there's a link with the PCOS since it does put us at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases plus I've made some connections that lead me to believe this might be the case.

I now have to investigate other forms of birth control but my doctor has referred me to a gynecologist who will make the final decision. They've recommended the myrena IUD for me so we'll see but I hope that whatever they recommend for me works...my problem was I used to have my period all of the time.

I don't know how the Marvelon helps with migraines but it may not be birth control that will now help you for that particular symptom. I read how you said it's not worth having the risk of stroke...and it's not! Aside from dieting and exercise, I think if your doctor isn't sure what to recommend, there must be a specialist they could recommend and it might be worth looking into alternative therapies if you're not satisfied with the solutions the docs give you.

Meringoo · 05-02-2008, 05:21 AM

Thanks for your replies!

I am a little upset in a way because I was hoping that Marvelon would eventually sort me out, but I'm trying to stay positive and I've been researching alternatives. I'm pleased my doctor has taken this so seriously. My friend had a stroke caused by the combined pill and she now takes the depo shot (but doesn't have pcos).

I am a bit unsure about using the Mirena coil due to the progesterone. I don't want to put on more weight or get spotty etc... I wouldn't mind trying Metformin to regulate my cycles and help with the IR and for contraception I like the idea of the IUD - but scared about the pain of insertion!!

I'm only 22 and have had problems since I was 11 (when I started my periods) so I'd like to find a reliable solution!! I'm trying to go to the gym twice a week (at the mo I am in so much pain so it's not happening) and mostly I either feel too sick to eat or I eat fairly healthily (i'm human though lol!)

xx

Ihave2believe · 05-02-2008, 08:10 PM

I know what you mean hoping Marvelon would sort everything out...it sounds like you have a great attitude and you need to in any situation, but I think especially for us that have PCOS! Good to hear about your doctor...I think that's number 1...cuz if your doctor wasn't so supportive, that would be so difficult. I learned that the hard way. I had a terrible doctor who was telling me all of my symptoms were 'normal'...yeah right, I don't think so. Switching doctors was one of the best decisions I made. I've learned that with having PCOS, you have to educate yourself and you should have the say in how your PCOS is managed and I think this is really important since it's different for all women. We all have to deal with different symptoms and some meds will work while others won't.

I'm also a bit scared about the Mirena IUD because I can't imagine dealing with additional side effects like things I'm already fighting because of the PCOS...but I've done some research so I'll have lots of questions for the gynecologist...plus I'm researching other methods and we'll discuss it to figure out what's best. And you should definitely discuss it with your doctor or get referred to someone else who knows more about it.

You should definitely try Metformin. I will warn you though that you have to hang in there for the first month because it is really rough on your stomach...it gives new meaning to 'when you gotta go, you gotta go!' When I started on metformin, I had one pill a day for one week then two pills a day during the second week, and now I take three pills a day which is 1,500 mg. The first day I took one pill was definitely the worst but I just kept at it, and now it's much better. I have noticed a difference in a lot of my symptoms...I also take spironolactone but the metformin is great. I had the worst eating habits before taking metformin...I always felt hungry, etc...since taking the metformin, I've been able to lose more than 50 pounds because it sensitized me to insulin so I now know when I'm full and I don't feel 'addicted' to fat and carbs like I used to...of course you need to eat fat and carbs, but I had a very unhealthy relationship with food before. And remember to eat when you take the pill; otherwise, it's not so nice!

As far as the IUD goes, I think it sounds great since it's as effective as the birth control pill, but I definitely will talk to the gynecologist about my concerns and we'll see what he says. I think anything medically is a risk, but I take a lot of things already which I have no side effects from...it's different for everyone.

You are also quite young. It sounds like you lead a fairly healthy lifestyle...probably a lot better than most people LOL...but really I think that's great - keep it up!

Eva37 · 05-03-2008, 05:27 AM

ihave tobelive -
ive had 2 mirenas, and theyve been fine. had my first one for 4 years , and got a new one now.

eva

Meringoo · 05-03-2008, 01:31 PM

Hey there!

It means so much to hear form people who are willing to share their experiences - it can feel really lonely at times. Though I've had a bad week, in an odd way it has made me look at my life differently. It has inspired me to be strong and not let obstacles (like a bcp not working) get in my way.

I'm lucky to have a loving family and partner, which also helps.

It's no lie when I say I am always hugry, and my dad thinks this is IR, plus my grandfather is diabetic. I had tests years ago but the docs thought i was fine - I am not convinced 6 years on. I get very down and lethargic plus I crave bad foods - which i don't always have - but I can tell they also make me worse. So this whole experience has really given me a kick up the backside to think more about what I eat, research Metformin and go to the gynae ARMED with info and a strong will LOL!

Once I'm not feeling so fragile (and my withdrawal bleed is over - I am totally drained of energy atm!) I will go to the gym again!

Bought some "Super One" vitamins from Holland & Barratt which should help give me a boost...

All I need now is my appointment.

xx

PollySis · 05-04-2008, 09:13 AM

Dunno anything about bcps so can;t advise there.

PCOS wise, I found vitex (agnus castus) to be my miracle drug. Unlike metformin has no side effects. I used to have one period a year - I've had 3 in 3 months with vitex. Youy can find a great thread or several on the Alternative Remedies section here. Nuff said.

Also have migraines and found that they reduced massively when I followed the diet advice in Collette Harris's PCOS books - switched to a 'clean' diet (mainly wholefoods), and now only get migraines with periods. That said, they are now more frequent as the vitex worked so well with the periods!

I use Migraleve - don't like using drugs but migraine is so bad I have to. Works for me but I'd like to find something milder that works.

04-30-2008, 06:32 AM	#1 (permalink)
Meringoo Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 26 My Mood: Points: 2,284.30 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 2,284.30 Donate	Migraines = no more Marvelon...advice please Hi all! I've posted this in the BCP section too, but would like to hear from UK/Irish cysters too please... I've just got back from the doctor and I'm really worried. I've been suffering with migraines and bad headaches, nausea as well as very bad pain in ovaries and lower back. I've been told to stop taking Marvelon (which up until recently seemed to be ok) and I am going back to my specialist for a review and to find a non-combined pill alternative that actually works.... Does this exist?? I'm really scared that I'll be very ill again, but understand that it's not worth the risk of having a stroke! Migraines run in my family. I never told the docs years ago that I suffered from them because I was younger and thought I was just stressed/depressed. I'd like to hear from people with similar situations please....what do you take instead? Thank you x x x

04-30-2008, 09:17 AM	#2 (permalink)
Eva37 UK Mod Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: South Wales Posts: 12,558 My Mood: Points: 21,973.86 Bank: 1,041,115.92 Total Points: 1,063,089.78 Donate	i cant take bcp either, makes my weight/bp go wayyy up. I have a mirena to help with my periods now. They are much lighter/less painful with the mirena. eva __________________ PCOS, LOCAH, Lichen Planus, IBS, HS,alopecia - raised bp/ cholesteral. Wheat and dairy intollerance Meds: Spiro, Bendrofluazide, Amlodopine, Simvastatin, Met, Prednisolone, Mirena iud, Colpermin multi vits, Me - 41, hubby 36 son 11. Married 14 years She is buffeted by the wind, but she does not sink. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

05-01-2008, 04:54 PM	#3 (permalink)
Tara x Registered User Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: I live in North England in a town called Huddersfield ! Posts: 41 My Mood: Points: 1,249.66 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 1,249.66 Donate	Hi ! I don't know anything about Marvelon, but Migranes also run in my family and I also suffer with them, been suffering with them for as long as I can remember. Since changing my diet I've found that I hardly every get Migranes like I used to, which was maybe 3 times a week !! The main culprit was cheese ! Can't really help you with your situation but, if you feel painkillers aren't working for you when you do have a migrane, i do recommend Syndol, you can buy them at any Pharmacy. I've been on prescribed drugs, used all over the counter meds and Syndol is the only one that's worked for me ! My migrane goes away in 10 mins __________________ Moi - 17 ! To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Diagnosed in March 2007 Meds: Metformin 1000mg Reductil 15mg Supplements: Calcium Vit B Complex Cod Liver Oil

05-01-2008, 05:22 PM	#4 (permalink)
lazybones Registered User Join Date: Apr 2008 Posts: 97 Points: 2,902.73 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 2,902.73 Donate	I suffer from mirgraines to , i put it down to BCPS but turns out i just get them .. Jess x __________________ Formally known as junior_j 16 years old pcos for 6 years , was diagnosed at 10 Have 5 weeks left till i officially leave school Dieting to become more healthy and happier with my self image Medical conditions-Pcos , ibs , asthma , Treatments - Meberverine , blue,green,brown inhaler and pain killers.. Love my cysters xxxxxxx To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

05-02-2008, 08:10 PM	#7 (permalink)
Ihave2believe Registered User Join Date: May 2008 Posts: 5 My Mood: Points: 212.41 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 212.41 Donate	Hang in there! I know what you mean hoping Marvelon would sort everything out...it sounds like you have a great attitude and you need to in any situation, but I think especially for us that have PCOS! Good to hear about your doctor...I think that's number 1...cuz if your doctor wasn't so supportive, that would be so difficult. I learned that the hard way. I had a terrible doctor who was telling me all of my symptoms were 'normal'...yeah right, I don't think so. Switching doctors was one of the best decisions I made. I've learned that with having PCOS, you have to educate yourself and you should have the say in how your PCOS is managed and I think this is really important since it's different for all women. We all have to deal with different symptoms and some meds will work while others won't. I'm also a bit scared about the Mirena IUD because I can't imagine dealing with additional side effects like things I'm already fighting because of the PCOS...but I've done some research so I'll have lots of questions for the gynecologist...plus I'm researching other methods and we'll discuss it to figure out what's best. And you should definitely discuss it with your doctor or get referred to someone else who knows more about it. You should definitely try Metformin. I will warn you though that you have to hang in there for the first month because it is really rough on your stomach...it gives new meaning to 'when you gotta go, you gotta go!' When I started on metformin, I had one pill a day for one week then two pills a day during the second week, and now I take three pills a day which is 1,500 mg. The first day I took one pill was definitely the worst but I just kept at it, and now it's much better. I have noticed a difference in a lot of my symptoms...I also take spironolactone but the metformin is great. I had the worst eating habits before taking metformin...I always felt hungry, etc...since taking the metformin, I've been able to lose more than 50 pounds because it sensitized me to insulin so I now know when I'm full and I don't feel 'addicted' to fat and carbs like I used to...of course you need to eat fat and carbs, but I had a very unhealthy relationship with food before. And remember to eat when you take the pill; otherwise, it's not so nice! As far as the IUD goes, I think it sounds great since it's as effective as the birth control pill, but I definitely will talk to the gynecologist about my concerns and we'll see what he says. I think anything medically is a risk, but I take a lot of things already which I have no side effects from...it's different for everyone. You are also quite young. It sounds like you lead a fairly healthy lifestyle...probably a lot better than most people LOL...but really I think that's great - keep it up!

05-01-2008, 06:45 PM	#5 (permalink)
Ihave2believe Registered User Join Date: May 2008 Posts: 5 My Mood: Points: 212.41 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 212.41 Donate	I've never had migraines but I was interested in your post since you mentioned Marvelon. I used to take Marvelon but have just been recently ordered to stop as I had a stroke a little over 2 months ago. I was 28 when it happened and I've since turned 29. The docs can't figure out what caused my stroke because I'm just too young for this...they think it's either the birth control pill (I'm not trying to scare you) or genetics. I truly believe it's neither of these but something in me tells me that there's a link with the PCOS since it does put us at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases plus I've made some connections that lead me to believe this might be the case. I now have to investigate other forms of birth control but my doctor has referred me to a gynecologist who will make the final decision. They've recommended the myrena IUD for me so we'll see but I hope that whatever they recommend for me works...my problem was I used to have my period all of the time. I don't know how the Marvelon helps with migraines but it may not be birth control that will now help you for that particular symptom. I read how you said it's not worth having the risk of stroke...and it's not! Aside from dieting and exercise, I think if your doctor isn't sure what to recommend, there must be a specialist they could recommend and it might be worth looking into alternative therapies if you're not satisfied with the solutions the docs give you.

05-02-2008, 05:21 AM	#6 (permalink)
Meringoo Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 26 My Mood: Points: 2,284.30 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 2,284.30 Donate	Thanks for your replies! I am a little upset in a way because I was hoping that Marvelon would eventually sort me out, but I'm trying to stay positive and I've been researching alternatives. I'm pleased my doctor has taken this so seriously. My friend had a stroke caused by the combined pill and she now takes the depo shot (but doesn't have pcos). I am a bit unsure about using the Mirena coil due to the progesterone. I don't want to put on more weight or get spotty etc... I wouldn't mind trying Metformin to regulate my cycles and help with the IR and for contraception I like the idea of the IUD - but scared about the pain of insertion!! I'm only 22 and have had problems since I was 11 (when I started my periods) so I'd like to find a reliable solution!! I'm trying to go to the gym twice a week (at the mo I am in so much pain so it's not happening) and mostly I either feel too sick to eat or I eat fairly healthily (i'm human though lol!) xx

05-03-2008, 05:27 AM	#8 (permalink)
Eva37 UK Mod Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: South Wales Posts: 12,558 My Mood: Points: 21,973.86 Bank: 1,041,115.92 Total Points: 1,063,089.78 Donate	ihave tobelive - ive had 2 mirenas, and theyve been fine. had my first one for 4 years , and got a new one now. eva __________________ PCOS, LOCAH, Lichen Planus, IBS, HS,alopecia - raised bp/ cholesteral. Wheat and dairy intollerance Meds: Spiro, Bendrofluazide, Amlodopine, Simvastatin, Met, Prednisolone, Mirena iud, Colpermin multi vits, Me - 41, hubby 36 son 11. Married 14 years She is buffeted by the wind, but she does not sink. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

05-03-2008, 01:31 PM	#9 (permalink)
Meringoo Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 26 My Mood: Points: 2,284.30 Bank: 0.00 Total Points: 2,284.30 Donate	Hey there! It means so much to hear form people who are willing to share their experiences - it can feel really lonely at times. Though I've had a bad week, in an odd way it has made me look at my life differently. It has inspired me to be strong and not let obstacles (like a bcp not working) get in my way. I'm lucky to have a loving family and partner, which also helps. It's no lie when I say I am always hugry, and my dad thinks this is IR, plus my grandfather is diabetic. I had tests years ago but the docs thought i was fine - I am not convinced 6 years on. I get very down and lethargic plus I crave bad foods - which i don't always have - but I can tell they also make me worse. So this whole experience has really given me a kick up the backside to think more about what I eat, research Metformin and go to the gynae ARMED with info and a strong will LOL! Once I'm not feeling so fragile (and my withdrawal bleed is over - I am totally drained of energy atm!) I will go to the gym again! Bought some "Super One" vitamins from Holland & Barratt which should help give me a boost... All I need now is my appointment. xx

05-04-2008, 09:13 AM	#10 (permalink)
PollySis Cheerful Radiohead fan Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: England Posts: 1,161 My Mood: Points: 19,767.87 Bank: 163.16 Total Points: 19,931.03 Donate	Dunno anything about bcps so can;t advise there. PCOS wise, I found vitex (agnus castus) to be my miracle drug. Unlike metformin has no side effects. I used to have one period a year - I've had 3 in 3 months with vitex. Youy can find a great thread or several on the Alternative Remedies section here. Nuff said. Also have migraines and found that they reduced massively when I followed the diet advice in Collette Harris's PCOS books - switched to a 'clean' diet (mainly wholefoods), and now only get migraines with periods. That said, they are now more frequent as the vitex worked so well with the periods! I use Migraleve - don't like using drugs but migraine is so bad I have to. Works for me but I'd like to find something milder that works. __________________ To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 10 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Rate This Thread
Rate This Thread: