Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

Hi! I found this site through WebMd and have found it very useful. When I was 20 years old, I had my gallbladder removed and shortly after I noticed that every time I ate, I wound up in the restroom within minutes. After discussing with my physician, it was determined that I have IBS. That was 3 years ago, and the past 3 years have torture. I have been on and off of Levbid and anti-depressants, but once treatment stops, the symptons return with FURY! No kidding. I was in an intimate setting once, when my IBS attacked - talk about embarrassment. I have lost approximately 30 lbs with the past 3 years since I cannot hold anything down. Most people would be ecstatic to lose this weight, but since I am 5'4" and now weigh 107, I am getting worried. I am afraid to go on dates because I never know what my stomach will or will not accept. I consider myself to be pretty healthy - I work out 3-4 times a week for about an hour each night...but I can't help but wonder what kind of toll my body is taking due to IBS. I had a visit to my doctor today, where I was prescribed Levbid and Zoloft (again). My doctor advised that if things don't get better I should go see a gastroenterologist. Has anyone been to one of these specialists? Are they helpful? Also, my doctor discussed a new study with me regarding birth control or estrogen therapy vs. IBS. Apparently, estrogen contained in Birth Control can create problems. Does anyone have further information regarding this? I appreciate any advise given.

Thanks!

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