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Sorry if this is TMI, but I have to ask. I was banded 9 days ago and since around day 3 I've been having vaginal bleeding. Not alot, but enough to get on your nerves. The kicker is I'm on BCP's-the kind you take for 3 months and then have a period. I haven't missed any pills and SHOULD NOT be having a period right now. Could this be because my body's in shock or something from the surgery? Or because I'm eating (drinking-ugh) only 500-600 calories a day? Anyone else experience this?

CG, have you experienced any other symptoms of menopause? It is kind of interesting you are only experiencing these episodes at night, but they definitely fit the description of hot flashes. According to the experts, menopause actually has a wide starting range, but can usually be expected in the age range of 42–58.An early menopause can be related to cigarette smoking, higher body mass index, racial and ethnic factors, illnesses, chemotherapy, radiation and the surgical removal of the ovaries, with or without the removal of the uterus. Can you say TMI?!

my follow up went well today. I've lost a total of 21 lbs and 4 inches. I was able to pull out some of my smaller clothes. Dr said everything is good. I won't be able to get my first fill until my 6 week check up. But he gave me a list of eating guide lines that will determine wither or not i need one. We talked about my colon and how being irregular is normal. it's like re learning to have healthy BM's. I know that's TMI but i know that there are others out there that have the same problem. they recommended prunes. or that i double up on my dose of miralax.

So I spent the day at the hospital for my preop stuff. 7 am: chest cray, gallbladder ultrasound, blood work, urine work, ekg. 9-12: nutrition class at hospital. 1:15: nurse interview. 2-4: nutrition class at my surgeons office. It was a long day, but I learned a lot. It is also my 4th day of liquids and I am feeling cramps in my stomach, but over all ok. TMI: my BM's are weird. All my test result came out normal, so I am ready! QOTD: I would totally get together next summer with our group.

Denise: Ouch on the 'graft' spot and take it easy on salty stuff. Then again, didn't they used to rub salt into the sailors backs after whipping them raw (as a way of healing?)? I know...TMI and no help <bg> Dottie: LOL on the babies in diapers analogy but I'm one of those who'd rather wait until one was out before dealing with another <g> Well I went to my first (and last) Tae Kwan Do class tonight. It's just a little more confrontational than I want. I think I need to find a Tai Chi class. ;-p

Good Morning all! Wow, you all have been pretty busy on here since I was last on...I have some major catching up to do! Well, Friday turned out to be a weird day! Late in the afternoon, we were informed that they were letting another 3 people go, and one of them happened to be my mentor when I started there, then my supervisor, then helped me get hired back on after I left for a while. I leared a lot from her, she was a bit anal, some found her hard to deal with, but she really knew her stuff! I'll miss her...I'll have to take her to lunch next week! Then, I was "outed" at work, lol! I wonder if this is what people of different sexual preference feel like, not like you're really ashamed, but you just don't go around telling everyone. I had already told the people in my workgroup, and assumed that they blabbed, but no one else had every come up to me and talked about it. Well, I got caught in the bathroom and one of the girls from another group came up and said, "So, what you doing to get so skinny?" I said "Am I getting skinny?" She said, "Girl, yes, I just looking and looking, and was like, either you was getting smaller or my eyes were getting bigger!" So I told her I had lapband, and re-inforced that it's not like you get it and just melt away, I still have to count calories and exercise as with any diet. And she said "Really, I though with that you got it and didn't have to do anything, like it was just easy to do!". So, I told her no, it's hard and it's an adjustment. So, I'm officially "out of the closet" so to speak, because I KNOW she is a gossiper! I actually feel better now, maybe because somebody is actually noticing a difference! Talk about someone noticed, my husband was feeling my rear end, lol, and said, "it's getting smaller!" I died, then said, "well is it too small now?" He winked and said, oh no, it's still nice & round. :-) Well, Saturday was an good day. We went to a movie, dinner, and to a high school jazz festival...it was totally awesome! We went last year and I noticed that the seat was actaully comfortable this time around, didn't feel like I had imprints on my hips from the seat! I only got to log 1lb loss this week, but (TMI alert) I haven't had a BM since like Monday! Hopefully my plumbing will get to working, lol! Well, let me get to reading all the updates and see if my brain is working today! Have a great day...Indiana is sunshiny and expected to get in the low 50s, so it should be nice out. Going to take my boy to see Alice In Wonderland!

Yeah Christie. Way to keep the party jumping Melody: had a crazy day. Yesterday sucked on a piece candy just to get nasty taste of mouth. I was on liquids. Well just as soon as I did that had to run to toilet and no not puke--the other end sorry TMI. Well today I got up to make some chilli for a luncheon later that day. I got so queasy and a little dizzy. I thought maybe since I have not been getting in a lot of calories, maybe I was just weak plus I had not eaten or drunk a shake? So I went and got a Dannon Greek yogurt. I ate it and a few more minutes later back in the bathroom followed by being cold and weak. Tried to eat a devil egg later--back to the bathroom. Finally tried the chili I had with ground chicken. Just about 1/3 of a cup. Finally it stayed in me! Was this dumping? The shakes I had been drinking had no sugar.

Hi Everyone... I'm back and banded and although I'm having a bit of gas pain, that's about it. I haven't had much pain from the incision or the port. My surgery experience was really really good. The woman who woke me up from anaesthesia exclaimed "My name is Jackie and I lost 145 pounds from a weight loss surgery. Hi". Isn't that cool? Like I said, it's been pretty easy for me so far. I haven't had a lot of pain...I'm one of the lucky ones, I know. I worked out a lot before surgery, had the two weeks of full liquids and one day of clear liquids. BTW, I took my ipod with me to surgery and it really calmed me down before and after. I filled it with soothing sounds and it really helped me out. I felt much better in the recliner in the room as opposed to the bed and think that helped a lot with gas pain. It was also a lot easier to get up and moving from a chair than from a bed. I have this bit of advice to those getting banded soon. I've read in many places on this forum about having an enema or something like it the day before surgery. I had heard that it really lessened the likelihood of gas pains. My doctor recommended I drink a bottle of Magnesium Citrate (aka, "The Bomb") around noontime the day before. I did so and I really emptied out. In fact, by the time I weighed in for surgery, I had lost 20 pounds!!!! At any rate, my gas pain, although kind of uncomfortable is not all that bad. So, in my opinion, even if the doctor doesn't order it, I say...it couldn't hurt. I prefer the Magnesium Citrate route. But you have to be close to home. It takes about four hours to clean you out. Ok, tmi, I know. One more thing about gas pain. Whenever I get a shooting pain, I jump up and walk around the room. It really helps. Another thing...cold liquids and ice chips make it worse. It's much better to go for the warm or tepid liquids. At the risk of giving Too much advice....I've got another suggestion for those of you who have to do clear liquids before and after surgery. To avoid feeling just miseably starved, go to GNC and get a few bottles of Isopure clear. It's not really clear, it's a drink in these lurid colors and flavors that has 40 grams of protein p/bottle. So if you sip it all day, you manage to stay pretty full. It's good post-surgery too, when you don't feel much like eating. :nervous For those of you who were chatting about the c-pap machine, I have the kind with just nasal pillows and find it easy to wear. I got used to it really quickly and it is completely silent. The first night I wore it, the room was so silent, my husband had to reach over to make sure I was still alive. lol. Libra...I received meds for nausea when I left the hospital. You clearly need them. Vomiting is the worst....I hope you feel better soon. Caroline...Are you the one that's losing 1.5 lbs every two days?!? Good going! That's awesome. My doc wouldn't let me get back to weight training for a month. I'm jealous that you get to do it sooner. BTW, I gained 5 pounds today. Waaannnnhhh. I'm sure that it's just swelling, edema, gas etc from surgery. Right? Bug...my doctor recommended Colace. I prefer Benefiber because it's so gentle. I just put a tsp in my morning drink. It's not detectable at all. But you may need "the bomb" of magnesium citrate if you're really clogged up. Well, I'm tired but happy that it's over and now the real work starts. :clap2:

Oh my goodness Bea! That had to hurt... Not alot is TMI for me lol I hope you get to feeling better very soon. Mom its venting :biggrin: I do it alot. Sure makes you feel better though eh? Ok WTH did they do to the site?

Okay, if you are weird about medical stuff, don't look at the pics below. I just couldn't not send them though. Turler I thought you might be interested. As I've said, I've been feeling really bad and hurting quite a bit the last few weeks. Well tonight I found out why. Usually I pass very small, sand like stones or on the rare occassion tiny gravel; this stone was huge and the pics don't do it justice. It was so pointed and jagged I'm not sure how it passed. It actually got stuck. I know, TMI, but I'm horrified and I don't get freaked out easily. Anyway, look at your own risk. I certainly hope no one is upset and/or offended that I shared these. I'm always interested in weird medical stuff.

Since my last fill in July I have never felt hunger pangs. I eat by the clock now. I dont think I am too tight because I don't PB, I don't every really get food stuck, I could probably take a few large gulps of water before it started backing up on me lol.. I know TMI but I looked at all this too so I could make sure that I was at the right restriction. The veggies I only eat because I worry about nutrition. Maybe I will weed out some of the veggies and then replace with trail mix or more nuts. a meal for me would be about 3 or 4 oz of meat per sitting and then a few veggies just to make myself feel better about nutritional needs. I have a space in the evening where I could add in another snack or something. Normally I have a glass of wine (Chardonnay or Merlot) so I don't eat since I am having liquids. I am doing away with the wine for a week as a test so I could fill this space with a snack. or I might have to fill it with a protein shake Blah.

Happened to me too. I was back in the hospital for uncontrolled leaking through the drain when it started. Lasted a few days. Would have been good to know this was a possibility.... On the BM/TMI front- I experienced daily diarrhea for the first month. Likely exacerbated by IV/pill antibiotics for infection.

I went #2 today 5 days post op. It was darker. And I know tmi, but it was soft...meaning I had no constipation issues

No the protocol here is to stay two nights as standard. Which suits me as I was in no shape to go anywhere this morning. Still cant believe how much better I am today. Gas pain is no joke. Also had a litte gas out the back end which is also kind of a victory.. tmi I know but there yah go.

Congrats to everyone who have recently gotten approval and have March dates! I've been in the Feb 09 board for no particular reason outside of getting some questions answered. :tongue: I know you all must be so excited and I am so very happy for you! Your adventure has officially began! I am one of those whose insurance hasn't been approved yet and feel very anxious about it. I feel like I could finally feel like my journey has started once that happens. My insurance changes March 31 to the insurance someone mentioned above where you have to be 40bmi or greater for a min of 2 years. So this is it for me! My appt with the surgeon is this Friday - so that will be when my insurance is submitted. I still have the psych appt, nutritional appt, and support meeting to attend. I have a stress test from cardiologist, last mammogram, & copy of my cholesterol bloodwork. I will be getting copies of my dr supervised weight loss attempt and a letter of recommendation from a Dr I have been seeing for the last 7 years. I'm sure I still need an actual referral from my primary care physician. Anyway - tmi - but I hope to join this group of March success stories! I wish you all getting ready - all the luck in the world! And as for protien drinks - I've read in a couple of places that the protien drinks at costco are really good. As for a name. March melters is good. Shrinking Shamrocks? Shapely Shamrocks? Shameless Shamrocks? Lucky Lapbanders? Curvy Clovers? Classy Clovers? LOL -how fun to think up stuff....

I'm on day 3 post op. Gas is more controlled. I still am having issues swallowing, but I found if I walk and drink it's better to swallow. I took a shower this morning and it felt great; except the stinging from my belly button ????. Actually, the only real pain I have is in my belly button and from my drain. I know this is tmi, but it really made me happy! I had a bm today! Haven't had one since the 1st day of the liquid diet. I am used to having at least one a day...those 4 days really scared me! On a not disgusting note, I also realize I have to remember I can't eat/drink like I used to. My appetite is coming back and I used to be a big drinker. I just poured myself a huge tumbler of apple juice and as soon as I did, I remembered... I can't drink all of this! I guess I will have many moments like that in the beginning ????

No such thing as TMI in this forum... And, generally speaking, nothing going in will equate to very little coming out... As you can see, everybody is different... But at 5 days out, I'd say you're still in the 'nothing to worry about' place...

@@WRIGHTLE Yes my surgery was on Monday, December 15th. Just 3 days post op. I'm struggling with my liquids. Hopefully it'll get better soon. The trapped gas is horrific for me and nausea. I vomited (sorry for the tmi) horribly as soon as I got to my room after my procedure. I've had issues with nausea coming in waves ever since. I also vomited a bit today. I noticed that I'm very particular with smells and textures of foods right now. Hopefully it's because my stomach is a little weak right now. The only thing that's somewhat agrees with me is warm tea, crystal light, and Popsicles. Lol. I have this Isopure drink from the vitamin shoppe I'm using to try to get some protein in, but one bottle has lasted me three days, lol.

Sorry if this is TMI but did anyone else have diarrhea trying to increase calories? I am not sure if it's the general increase in fat or carbs. I thought I had a handle in trying to stay at this weight or maybe lose 5 pounds over a few months. It was working but now I am back to losing 2 pounds in 5 days. I am 5' 2.5 and now 129. I know I can still lose more and be ok however I have a lot of muscle and excess skin from prior weight gains and loses. I feel like I am getting too skinny. My face looks tired and gaunt, my wrists are so bony. Here's what I eat and I am trying to increase calories but heavy meats fill me up for hours. I have to graze all day to get this in: meals: premier shake and 5 oz of milk (1-2%) 1 egg with 1c sauté spinach using olive oil, 1-2T cheese 4oz. premade chicken salad (130 cal with 3.5f, 13g protein) 1.5 oz ground beef with 1/4 c veggies (green beans or broccoli) 1-2T cheese snacks: 1T peanut butter 1 cup of milk 1/2 c berries (divided up all day long) 1-2 servings (5 oz cups) of low sugar yogurt sometimes the one with nut butter mixed in 1/4 c pumpkin seeds or walnuts lentil crackers, nut thins crackers, or 1 sheet of graham cracker harvest snaps green pea crisps --- it all averages to 25% carbs (80g), 33% protein (97g), 40% fat (44g) for an avg. of 1100 calories I know some of the processed snacks are not the best but I am trying to increase calories and carbs without the volume. I have a hard time getting in water since I always feel like I am eating but I figure the milk and yogurt as snacks helps somewhat with fluids. Any suggestions?

OMG Phyl - Hugs Hugs Hugs - Go to the ER- Then your doc will have to show up TMI - have you ck'd your stools for blood???

Good morning Gang Karla & Candice - Hugs on your medical issues - I'm thankful I don't have any ;0) well tmi this a.m. can't go :0) Phyl hope you get a fill - they do help... Candice - yep I was thinking of you when I was watching Oprah yesterday.. We don't have to have tramatic issues as a reason for eating - but we are covering up feelings I have always said I self medicate to go to sleep (eat) I may pick up the book myself.. Dinner - Candice I eat the same thing most nights last night fish - tonite steak and veggies :0) I have boot camp today - Lunch is fish & spinach :0) who know's breakfast some nuts :0).. Glad you had a good time w/kids... Well off to the shower

Yeah, I think most of us have some sort of parent issues. Mine was abusive and my dad completely absent. Fortunately my mom is gone and I have a relationship with my dad that is on my terms. So I have been given permission to start losing weight by the PS and to go back to the gym with essentially no restrictions. The only thing that I have to watch is the chest exercises. So I bought the Beck Diet Solution Workbook (They didn't have the regular book). I have exactly 30 days until we leave for Philadelphia so it is going to be 30 days of clean eating. I cleaned out the cupboards both here and at home. I made my area for food in the kitchen at work. I have my sticky notes around my office and reminders plugged into my phone. I'm going to my PCP on Friday and going to talk about anti-depressants. I really need them but I am REALLY reluctant to go on them. TMI ALERT!!! I already have NO "drive" in that area and the pills do nothing to help that. They also seem to make me feel like I'm STARVING but I am also tired of feeling depressed also! I am REALLY weepy but I do know that part of that is that I am late getting my Vit B12 Shot. I was supposed to get it today but the vial they got in was contaminated so they have to reorder. Wouldn't be in until Wednesday and since I already have the appt on Friday I didn't want to pay 2 co-pays especially since my insurance refuses to pay for my vitamin b 12 shots. Even though they truly are necessary. Well I am off to bed. I don't have time to watch the Olympics so I just read the articles and get updates from everyone else. Janet - I hope your sister gets better.

Ah Denise, I'm so sorry! I know I am feeling overwhelmed right now with caring for my furries with everything else, but i also know life would be hard without them. Candice, I have never read the Rainbow road, I loved it. I'm going to send it to my DD#1 who had to put her kitty down in February. Yeah I'm busy, but I ran out of potting soil, so I won't be planting tonight. Plus it is down pouring and is suppose to be all day. I usually continue to work in the rain, but tonight I think I will pass and I need to do furry nails and laundry. Ah Miss Molly is snuggly this morning, can I just stay home and snuggle? OOHH, I splurged and bought some OPI dark red fingernail pollish, in my case toe nail polish. I don't slow down long enough for fingernail polish to dry, but I have to paint my toe nails so I can wear sandles in the summer. My toes get so grungy after working in the nursery that I can't get my nails really clean, I know TMI, so I paint them to hide the ground in dirt. I never have used red before. Maybe tonight I will have time for toe nails. Phyl, GO GET THE DOG!!! AND WHY CAN'T YOUR DRIVE!!! You talked about driving before? Call a taxi, even in Missoula we have taxies. Well my time is up, keep up the good work, Phyl don't you go back to the doc today to check out your band? Swing by and get the dog! If Earl has a need for a 'honey do' list, send him to my place!! Love you all, you all are doing great!!! TTFN

Karla When your Mom makes those comments what do you say to her.... You are a grown women - time to stick up for you... I want you to talk to the counsler about how to handel those comments - Really Truely - cuz this is another thing that keeps holding you back from being the best that you can be - It just pisses me off - I wish I could tell your Mom something - She's a grown woman she should know better - but you can't do better if you don't know how.. Please Please talk to the counsler about this - I think these comments really distroy your well being.. I personnally would cut of ties (I think) or I do know I would comment back as respectully as I could - If pple aren't going to respect you for the professional smart compatant woment that you are - the F them - you don't need them in your life.. I didn't sleep well leg/feet cramps all night - didn't drink enough water the last few days and am having tmi issues too... Think the dogs had me up at 5 ish - but went back to bed - slept till 7:30 ish - need another cup of coffee and got to the bathroom PLEASE lol... s

OKAY!!! KICK MY BUTT!!! Made lousy food choices today. Lots of JUNK. But, no SODA. Now, if I could just get all this crap out of me, I'd be doing good. (I know, TMI) I have to laugh at all the man stories. I've got a few of them myself. Guess it's just a guy thing. EH? Steph - GREAT BIG GIANT HUG!!!!! You are not alone. Karla - one long sleeve shirt, one 3/4 sleeve sweater top and a couple short sleeved ones. and one pair of black slacks (pull on) I hope they work out for you. I'm anxious to find out. Jackie - sounds like Courtney's doing just great. chomping at the bit to get out and start her new life. WTG OKAY, BETTER DAY TOMORROW. TALK TO YOU ALL THEN.