Hi, Diane. I found over the past couple of years that my menstrual cycle also coincided with wierd changes to my bowel habits. It wasn't unusual to have bouts of diarhea or constipation along with my heavy periods.

One thing to avoid at all cost is "trying hard" to go. If you are constipated, drink more fluids and use a stool softener. Straining to pass a bowel movement can contribute to diverticula or pouches in the colon (I know because I have them) and if those get infected it can be nasty. Jen is right that left side pain can be caused by the bowel, and is likely caused by constipation at this point.

Hang in there, and keep us updated.

Jeri, Age 47
Ablation Oct 27, 2008