You didn't mention if you were on a monophasic or triphasic pill, which can make a huge difference when you try to skip periods as you mentioned. If you're on a monophasic (like alesse, ortho-cyclen, mircette, etc.) and you weren't successful, then maybe your body just can't handle it. But if you're in a triphasic (ortho-tri-cyclen, triphasil, etc.) then maybe you could try switching to a monophasic and skipping the inactive pills. Triphasics usually aren't successful in skipping periods, although some women say they've done it without problems.

I am on ortho-low ... I called my doctor the other day to ask and they were no help at all

You should definitely try a monophasic then to skip your periods. I've been on alesse for awhile and done that a couple of times with no problems. If you call your Dr. And just ask to switch to alesse (or loestrin, mircette, yasmin, ortho-cyclen) it should work. But really, if you like the ortho-lo you may not want to switch as a new pill could cause other problems (like acne, bloating, etc.) good luck!