Hi. I've had a ton of problems with birth control, and I've been a sexually inactive lesbian for years (not by choice, but lack of opportunity). Since adolescence, I suffered from premenstrual dysphoric disorder. My mom used to write notes so I could stay home from school...

When my therapist pointed it out (a psychiatric nurse practitioner) and suggested I go to the doctor, they put me on birth control. One raised my blood pressure. Another made me gain weight. Another caused month-round spotting, and on another, I didn't have my period at all. I kind of liked that, but I started going to an acupuncturist who said that that isn't good.

When I lost my job, I lost my health insurance, and ran out of the birth control. I can't really afford to go to the accupuncturist without a job, but he at least has a sliding fee scale. I've been going to see him off and on for a couple years now.

Anyway, when I ran out of the birth control, he recommended some chinese herbs that I'm supposed to start taking 10 days before I start my period. I noticed differences right away. A shorter, less painful period. Less cravings, etc. One month, I forgot to pick them up (They cost under $7 per bottle, one bottle per month), and I realized that the benefits continued, despite the fact that I hadn't been taking them that month.

It's so awesome! My period lasts half as long, and like I said, it's less painful, I experience less depression, etc. I still have symptoms, but it's so much more manageable.

I suppose the situation is very different. The chances of me becoming pregnant are less than slim, so prevention is not an issue for me. I also wouldn't tell anybody to go out and get these pills without consulting with a Chinese Medicine practitioner. I just feel like it's such a miracle though, and am really bothered that it isn't more widely practiced.

It's so frustrating to have to keep going back to the doctor and chaning meds to try to find one that works best for you. I'm sorry it's so hard for you to get in. Keep it up, and I hope you find a doctor that is a good fit for you. If you are able to, a naturopath may have different insight into the problems you are having.

Take care,
-Sara