Julie,
I think that oral contraceptives played a huge role in causing me to get this disease. I was taking orthotricyclen lo when I started to have problems. Prior to that, I took orthotricylen (not lo) for years.
Jennifer
There are several other posts with loads of responses on this topic!
But in short, I have over the years tried all forms of birthcontrol; depo, pills, and iud. I first got GM while having a Mirena in place. Since it's been removed, and not on birth control, I feel as if the GM flares are fewer and farther time inbetween!
I am on orthotricyclen lo for birth control. I do feel I have more pain and issues during my cycle but my doc says its from the hormone changes you have during your cycle since many women have breast tenderness during that time without GM. I have been on it for about 3 years to regulate my cycle but have taken some form of oral or the shot for over 10 years off and on. I think its your decision though just discuss your concerns with your doc and maybe do a low hormone one instead.