Hi
I have had very similar problems to you in that I have had irregular periods from starting menstruation.
You are less likely to be ovulating regularly if at all with irregular periods so it is a problem that needs investigation early on. It is also quite possible to have periods without ovulating.
Taking the pill too masks the symptoms of the underlying hormonal imbalance. It has not caused this problem to arise.
Irregular periods often have an underlying cause and it is certainly in your interests to discover the exact cause. Often hormonal imbalances are to blame; in this regard a condition called polycystic ovaries (PCO) is a common culprit. Around one in every five women has PCO. Another possible cause is thyroid imbalance.
I would go to the GP and explain to the GP about your long history of irregular periods. Blood tests can be done to see what your hormone levels are like and both PCO and thyroid should be checked for.
As your periods are irregular you can have the blood tests done according to calendar days i.e the 2nd (this would be to check and compare your LH level against that of your FSH) and the 21st to measure progesterone.
LH (Luteinising hormone) and FSH (follicle stimulation hormone) are two very important hormones as they kickstart the ovulation process. If these two levels are awry then ovulation will be affected.
You need a diagnosis first and foremost and you may well need a gynae;s assistance in order to conceive. Both of you should be tested further.
Do not temp chart or use OPK's; both are unhelpful in this particular circumstance.
HTH a bit, any other questions just ask.