I agree it isn't discussed enough so there are a lot of myths around.

I may have also posted on the women's health thread, so apologies if I'm repeating myself.

Whilst we inherit some things from our mothers, your experience could be different to hers. Both my mother and aunt (who are sisters) had difficulties, yet I had a much easier time. It could be just having a different mindset. After all, they grew up in a time when menstruation was called "the curse".

Yes, I have changed. I do have hearing problems, could be described a tinnitus. Also cannot sleep through the night. The main change for me has been an awakening to people and attitudes. No longer am I a "doormat". Perhaps it's attributable to age/experience but if a group of people say "me too" then there's more pointers towards psychological changes. I don't shout/lose temper but swear privately. I think I'm different but it could be the freedom factor (no pregnancy risk, etc)