For years I hav irregular periods due to Stein-Leventhal syndrome, AKA Para-cystic ovarian syndrome. Excessive facial hair, periods rare (Mine came every October whether I needed it or not) deep voice, overweight, and not able to really lose no matter HOW hard I tried, etc. 12 years ago, BAMB, every 28 days (BTW, the the doc said that is VERY unusual). 2 years ago, I began having a persiod every 17 days. Boy was THAT miserable. We played musical hormones, and finally settled on prometrium, a natural progesterone replacement, and now I am up to 22 days. Still not ideal, but MUCH closer to the norm. See your gyn, and do what you can to get a diagnosis. Most dysmenorhea is treatable with hormone replacement therapy. ------------------Praying with Bettie for a cure for this NASTY IBS!