methotrexate effects-women | Arthritis Information

Ladies question???

I had been on 6mtx per week for a few years and recently had my dose reduced ( 3 weeks ago) to 4mtx per week due to low white count. I was wondering if this could affect my period. This time it has been MUCH worse than ever in terms of cramps and heavier than usual. Anyone else experienced this? Is it related.... nothing else is different. I am 37. Thanks.

Hi, DL, and welcome!

I had an IUC inserted the same month I started MTX so my stuff was all out of whack for a while. I didn't notice that my cramps were any worse though. I hope someone here is able to provide you with an answer.

Have a superfantastic and comfortable day!

Hi, DL.

It's hard to say. I was on MTX for a long time and eventually I started having two periods a month. I also got a rash on my neck around the same time. I told my doc I thought it was the MTX and once she took me off it, the period thing stopped. Then she told me MTX can trigger menopause in some people, but it's really really rare. But it did mess up my periods.
I have endometriosis so I am on 2 packs of BC each month and skip the sugar pill week so I never get periods. I've been on mtx for 18 yrs so it's completely possible I got the endometriosis from it but there's really no way to tell. I've had awful cramping the last two months but that may be due to new hormone pills. It's really hard to say how the MTX will affect your cycle. Maybe your OB/GYN could advise you. Sorry I can't be more help.

I noticed your signature says

RA,PKD (enbrel,methotrexate,plaquenil,lodine,folic acid,fish oil,tylenol arthritis,prilosec,tramadol)

I do know that tramadol effects my menstral cycles. I am not sure about the rest as i wasn't on them long due to other complications.

I had period problems after starting mtx. I'm waiting to see if it will be normal this month. If so i guess I'm back on track. I tried Tramadol (ultram extended release) for a week around that time so maybe that was it!
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