In the last six months, whenever I get my period, I have what feels like an allergic reaction. My eyes tear up, and my nose, lips and cheeks get red and burn. It only happens on the heaviest day of my cycle. It is getting worse. I have noticed an extra sensitivity in my feminine area. My doctor has tested me for every STD possible, and all tests were negative. What is going on?

--- Virginia

What you are describing certainly sounds like an allergic reaction. Sanitary pads or tampons would be my first choice for the cause of your symptoms, especially since they are worse on your heaviest day when, presumably, you are changing these products more frequently.

Even if you have continued to use the same brand of pad or tampon, you may still have developed an allergy to it. Allergies are caused when your body produces antibodies to a substance. The next time you are exposed to that substance, the antibodies start a cascade of events that can lead to itching, watery eyes, rash or -- in the worst cases -- shortness of breath or anaphylactic shock (a severe reaction that requires immediate medical attention).

The most likely culprit would be the fragrances or bleaches used in the pad or tampon. You can buy unbleached tampons in many health food stores. If switching to a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic brand doesn't help, you should see an allergist for testing to determine what you are allergic to. Once you know exactly what is triggering your symptoms, you can avoid it.