Really struggling with no answers @ long term bloating :(

[Runner1818]

Hey, Ive just joined this community and am so happy to have found it! Apologies for the really long message, hopefully it doesn’t put everyone off reading it!

I’ve never had stomach problems in my life, however, this year has been horrendous. From March my period became agonising, to the point I literally passed out last month. Then from June my stomach ballooned up - I’m a fairly slim/athletic build, but it bloated to the point I looked about 4 months pregnant and was highly uncomfortable.

Ultrasound, bloods, and stool sample came back fine. Have been following a strict low fodmap diet and that has reduced the bloating a bit, but it’s still nowhere near back to normal.

GP said it sounds like endometriosis, have been referred to gastro and gaeno but waiting lists are insanely long at the moment. Paid to go private and didn’t get much from that - just to go back onto the pill/coil.

I feel so self conscious because of the bloating. I can’t fit into half of my clothes and I haven’t let my boyfriend see me without clothes on for almost 6 months now. It’s all making me miserable.

Has anyone been through something similar? Would love some advice.

[Vps1980]

How old are you if you don’t mind me asking? Xx

[Runner1818 in reply to Vps1980]

Not at all, I’m 29

[Roobs33]

Heya,

Sorry you’re having a difficult time. I’ve been doing caster oil packs on my abdomen to help with bloating and inflammation. The only time you’re not supposed to do it is during your period but any other time is fine. I’ve also just started taking peppermint oil tablets and making turmeric oat milk drinks. Endo has caused me severe leg and hip pain and bloating since my failed IVF and the day after having both the peppermint and turmeric my leg pain seemed to have mostly gone. It could have been a coincidence but I’m going to carry on taking them. I did quite a lot of research into them all so you might want to check with a professional before taking anything. I hope that you’re able to find something that helps you. It’s so horrible and uncomfortable xx

[635703]

I have been doing a course on this called The EndoBelly Course with Jessica Duffin - please look her up.

Her podcast is wonderful, it’s called This Endo Life. And there are EndoBelly episodes for freeee!!

She has a cookbook and a natural approach to pain - all downloadable for free on her website.

You’re welcome 😇❤️

So much to say….but look up you’ve gut this @lottiedryan on Instagram for bloat friendly wardrobe ideas. She’s was size 8 with IBS and has embraced her body changes positively and dresses 👗 in comfy and beautiful outfits.

So sorry this is affecting you so deeply and I really hope you navigate well and fine a good way forwards for you 💕💕💕💕

[Vps1980]

Try anti inflammatory foods, I get bloating from estrogen surges, ive just ordered some tulsi tea xx

[MrsNell]

Hi Runner, this has resonated a lot with myself. I first had severe bloat that started in July and lasted for three weeks before dissapearing for 5 weeks and have now had the bloated stomach for the last three months and counting. It's so disheartening and like you my normal clothes don't fit at all. My ca 125 is raised a little and i had an abdominal scan which was all clear. I have an appointment with the gaenocologist in January. I am also having very bad pains which have gotten worse each period since July and some shooting pains in between. It's all such a worry, and i struggle with my tummy being bigger than normal. I'm also anemic currently due to the blood loss during periods. Although not yet diagnosed with endo, i fully anticipate it will be this.

Make sure you go back to gp if you have any new symptoms that you are worried about. I hope we get answers soon. I am going to take some of the advice given in this post, thanks ladies and look into anti inflamstory diet and oils etc, they're worth a try 🙂. Good luck

[Mrs90]

Only from personal experience but I found the pill was my worst enemy along with bread and alcohol the yeast caused my issues along with soya. It’s worth cutting things out for a while and working out what is bad for you. I’m trying the coil to see if that helps. But when I’m off the pill it’s much better. I my case contraception is essential.