Holla! to the ladies of the Hut

[tnsechick.livejournal.com]

Hi. I've been aware of the Menstrualhut for years, but always thought, 'shoot--if I want to talk about my period in my own journal then I will.' However, my menstrual cycle has since become quite an adventure; yet if I sat down to write about it in my journal, the thing would quickly take on a tone and quality that I never intended.

So here I am!

My period started this morning (*bows* thank you, thank you) and I feel fantastic. I know--usually we feel like crap on the first day, right? Well, my story is that last fall my OB/GYN diagnosed me with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), which is NOT the same thing as PMS. It's like PMS with Bipolar Disorder and on crack. I try to manage it by taking SSRI antidepressants the week or two before my period, depending on when I realize the symptoms are starting. The reason I feel fantastic is that, as soon as my period starts, all symptoms suddenly vanish.

Just when I think I have it all worked out, my usual dose of the SSRI becomes noticeably less effective. :-( So, it's a roller-coaster ride sometimes.

Oh. Um, I just turned 34, and I have had 2 babies. My husband and I seem to be very fertile, and neither of those pregnancies was planned. ....Another reason why it is always good to see my period. ;-)