hey--a fellow cdn! hullo from the other coast! it's been a long while since i've posted, but i thought i'd share since i have a similar story. i have had ibs since i was a kid, and all through highschool and the first few years of univ. i would get such bad cramps that i would have to leave school in the middle of the day, down some painkillers, and lay in bed.i started having some pain in my abdomen about 4 years ago, and after seeing specialists and getting tests, they narrowed it down to a possibility of endometriosis. really helpful (sarcasm).I started on the pill just over 2 years ago, and have been on alesse the whole time. i thought for sure i would suffer some kind of side effects, but never had any. i actually think that my pms has been a little better on top of things.The pain subsided a little, and although my period actually became a bit heavier and lasted longer (usually the opposite happens), my cramps have definately been more managable. I used to go through so much tylenol, and when i went on the pill i'd only have to take a couple the first day, then i'd be fine.since my other new favorite discovery, i rarely take painkillers--one of the tampon companies...i think playtex...has started making these little heating pads that you stick onto your undies. i though what the heck, and tried them. they're wonderful! they last all day, and make enough of a difference that i can make it through school, work, and going out for dinner, without much trouble.anyway, i'd give the alesse a chance. it's been good for me, and definately hasn't made things any worse. try the heating pads too if you can find them, they work wonders.good luck. keep us posted!m.
