Buns, when I was not on BC, I had the same outlook as you... I think women are more tuned into their bodies as a necessity (thanks to those lovely menses). So I used to semi-look forward to my period each month as a gauge for the rest of my body.
But now that I've been on hormones for nearly 2 years, my whole body feels a bit... artificial. I have no idea when my real periods are anymore... just the artificial ones. But I guess I trade that for the security (?) of not getting pregnant.
Jess, good to know that stomach issues are not that uncommon. I've never thrown up before (except if related to BC), so that worried me. But I did buy a cheapo preg test and it was negative, so that's fine with me. I saw a doctor today about my really bad neck pain and got some advice, and for my tummy he recommended I buy Metamucil-stuff.
So now my only problem is feeling like a 60-year old.. bring me the prune juice, next!
(sorry, no offense to 60-year olds or anyone who drinks Metamucil or prune juice... just didn't think I would be doing it at 26!)