Hormonal changes

[ZiggyBean]

I thought I read somewhere that PBC can affect hormones.

I have been on my cycle for six days (normally lasts three) and I have noticed thickening facial hair. Has anyone else experienced this? If so, any suggestions for correcting the problem

[Hidden]

Hello ZiggyBean.

The liver does have a part in hormones but I personally don't think this is exactly a problem with PBC. I think it might be possible it can disrupt the cycle.

I've always had a normal cycle and in Dec 2010 I was diagnosed with PBC. The consultant said I'd more than likely had it 'a few years' (I wouldn't have seen a GP but for starting to itch early 2010). My cycle remained the same.

I am now not far off 50 and last year I started with a slightly different variant on the time between each but a year on I am still quite normal there. I was said to be perimenopausal last year, the time when the body is preparing for the cycle to finally cease. So far I've not had any problems though last couple months I have had the odd hot flushes and I noticed in the week following the end of my cycle.

I have noticed myself in the last year that I have a bit of facial hair where a man would have a moustache but it can be quite common for the female population to develop this due to fluctuation of hormones. I know for me it is of no big problem as it's not actually very noticeable. I always thought that bodily changes as we get much older are due to the body protecting itself in some way.

I also think that in the days of contraception now, I expect that there will be a lot of variants years down the line due to the altering of the cycle for certain periods of time. (I myself have not been a lengthy user of the contraception pill, never had it for more for than 18mths on just the one occasion so my cycle has always remained my natural one.)

[GrittyReads]

Hi Ziggy,

Despite having been a biology teacher in a previous existence, I really don't feel qualified to give an opinion on your question. The liver is a large and complex organ and performs numerous essential tasks and processes that are vital to our continued well being. If any one of these goes amiss then there can be all sorts of knock-on and feedback problems, often just temporary and non-harmful. As we all seem to present with slightly (or wildly) different symptoms, patterns and time charts with PBC, I don't think there is any easy answer for you, yet, as to whether PBC might play a role in what you are experiencing.

However, it is just as likely that what you are experiencing is caused by other processes. The menstrual cycle (and consequently the levels of different hormones) can be subtly altered by all sorts of things: stress, age, other illnesses, chemicals, foods. Is it likely that you are perimenopausal? I had similar symptoms to you when I began 'the change'. I would talk to your GPs and tell them your worries. Meanwhile, check in with the PBC Foundation, check their booklet, and also make notes of your cycles and any changes. Above all, try not to worry, eat a good diet, exercise and do things that you enjoy to alleviate stress and release endorphions! Be good to yourself.

[Anne123_45]

Hi zig this happened to me (I'm 34).. About two years ago prior to diagnosis pbc.. I started to develop a peachy fuzz face (longer at sides).. Anyway once I stared on urso.. my liver function started to stabilise the hair disappeared by itself (still there a little but I can no longer grab it lol).. I've also noticed my cycle returning to normal and other changes that would be (tmi).. I like you, was understandably concerned.. I had a joint consultation with a Dermatologist and gynaecologist.. Asked them and they said liver produces estrogen and has many other functions as we know.. This would definitely affect hormones etc.. My liver functioning at that time was very poor.. I'm now In normal range.. Hope this helps?? X

[ZiggyBean in reply to Anne123_45]

Thank you