posted
For those looking into the different methods of birth control to find what's right for them, here's one of several threads where users can report their experiences with a given method so that other users can get a more personal idea of what using a given method is like when they're looking into what might work best for them.
If you have used or do use the birth control pill, please report on it in the following format:
Pros: List what you have experienced as the pros or benefits -- the good parts -- of using this method.
Cons: List what you've experienced as the downsides or cons of using this method.
Ease of use: Talk about how easy -- or not -- it's been for you and/or your partner to use, access and afford this method, how it's worked out in your relationships, etc.
Effectiveness: Talk about how well this method has protected you from pregnancy, and if it ever has failed, note that, including any explanation of how or why, if you know or suspect how or why.
Feel free to also add any extra notes, hints or tips!
-------------------- Heather Corinna, Executive Director & Founder, Scarleteen About Me • Get our book! Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead Posts: 63416 | From: An island near Seattle | Registered: May 2000
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I was on the pill for a 3-year period a while back.
Pros: I really loved the ease and control that this method afforded me. I originally started the pill for non-contraceptive reasons and it really preformed well. My acne subsided somewhat and my periods became shorter and came "on schedule". When I did begin using BC as a backup for condoms, I found that it gave me a sense of security. Even if something went wrong with the condom, I'd still be protected. Before being on the pill, I'd also been prone to pretty significant mood swings and exhaustion just before my periods, all of which stopped when I started the pill...which was a huge blessing.
Cons: Initially, I would have said that there were no cons to my experience with the pill. However, after a couple of years, my body started doing funny things with the added hormones. I started gaining weight (I'd put on a few pounds when I started the pill, but I was THRILLED about it at the time, because I had been underweight), my withdrawl bleed started moving around, and I just didn't feel right about what was going on in my body. I could have tried a different pill formulation (which likely would have solved the problems), but I was at a point in my life and my relationship where I felt comfortable utilizing only condom and accessing EC should a condom failure occur.
Ease of use: I felt like the pill was really easy to use. I never had a problem taking it at the same time, each day. It was nice because it really gave me a great level of control over my own reproduction. Cost was not an issue while I was on the pill, as I was on my parent's insurance (which actually covered the pill) and then was at college (where I had access to the pill very cheaply via the student health center).
Effectiveness: I really felt like the pill protected me well during the time I took it. We always used condoms (for all contact) with the pill and only once had a condom problem, so I never really had need for the pill to be my primary protection. However, I always felt like it would have provided an excellent level of protection should I have needed to rely on it.
Other hints: One of the things I've heard lots of people complain about is that it's hard to remember to take the pill. I never really had a problem with that, and I fully believe it's because I made it a priority for me. I'm generally awful about taking medication everyday, I have trouble remembering to take a vitamin. But I made it a point to make the pill a priority for me. And by really focusing on how important it was, I was easily able to remember it.
-------------------- Sarah Liz Posts: 7313 | From: USA | Registered: Oct 2000
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I should weigh in on this one, too, and condoms.
I used the pill for about six years, from my teens through most of college. I'll pre-empt this by saying I did NOT have a good pill experience.
Pros: The initial reason I went unto the pill was because I had all-out debilitating periods (and given, this was before we had some of the pain meds we have now) and in that respect, it did its job. I did feel protected by it, whether I was doubling up with condoms or not. I also experienced that being on the pill provided an extra level of security for myself as well as my partners.
Cons: One thing I should likely say before I start my long list of cons is that I was put on the pill at an early age -- I know other girls now start it at 14, but the jury is still out on how cool that is -- and when I first started taking the pill, they weren't as low-dose as they are now. I had a hard time sometimes taking the pill on time, especially when juggling a lot of school stuff, jobs, social life, other projects. I had a history of migraines, and the pill made them TERRIBLE: mind-numbingly terrible. No one told me for a long time that women with migraines often find the pill makes them worse. The pill also amplified my breast size by a good cup, which made me feel pretty self-sonscious, since I already had larger breasts than most of my peers. It made my depression worse, it really screwed with my moods. I also had some vaginal imbalance and libido loss issues while on it. To boot, when I couldn't get public aid to cover it, is was very hard to afford with my level of poverty, so I'd often get pill packs late because I couldn't afford them. I have to say, too, that while I don't yet have a solid answer on this, I have some reason to think that some health issues I have now may have been influenced by the pill. I also started to feel, towards the end, like the pill just distanced me from my body, cycles and sexuality in a way I really didn't care for.
One other problem I had was that with partners I had a harder time being assertive with, getting them to use condoms when they knew I was on the pill was now and then an argument I had to have, when I've otherwise never had to have those arguments. And I think now and then it also gave me a false sense of security, in that with a partner I was reluctant to have the condom discussion with, I could sometimes just let myself not have it, figuring that at least I wouldn't get pregnant.
I'm afraid to say that for me, finally getting off the pill left me feeling better than ever, and my age and other issues notwithstanding, for me, personally, no one could pay me enough to use a hormonal method again.
Ease of use: Taking the pills was no problem. remembering to take them on time very much was for me.
Effectiveness: I did have one pregnancy on the pill, because I was not told that penicillin created an effectiveness issue, which at the time seemed the most likely culprit. Of course, had I backed up with condoms, it wouldn't have been an issue.
Other hints: One thing that would have helped me is establishing a routine I have for my vitamins and water intake now, which is to keep my water glass and pitcher and the pills in one place where I go every morning (here, they're by the coffee), so that forgetting is really tough. Too, lower-dose pills might have been better for me. But a really big help would have been to have been more informed about reasons I should not have taken the pill in the first place, and informed as to what might make it not work.
-------------------- Heather Corinna, Executive Director & Founder, Scarleteen About Me • Get our book! Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead Posts: 63416 | From: An island near Seattle | Registered: May 2000
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Pros: The extra protection in addition to condoms, knowing that I was as well protected from pregnancy as I could get, short of being abstinent. One bonus that I wasn't really looking for, but which was nice, was that being on the pill cleared up my skin quite a bit.
Cons: For me, the extra hormones gave me seriously nasty chronic yeast infections after awhile. As well, after about a year it just felt strange and not so great to be putting more hormones into my body. I started missing my natural cycle and my body doing it's own thing.
Ease of use: It was a bit tricky finding a good time to take a pill every day, but once I got that sorted, it was no problem. Cost wasn't an issue at all because of my university's fantastic health care plan.
Effectiveness: I never had any problems with the pill being effective - I used it as my only method of birth control for several months, and never had a problem. I always felt extremely well protected.
-------------------- "Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing." -Arundhati Roy Posts: 5329 | From: Canada/Australia | Registered: Sep 2004
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I've been on the pill for nearly three years now, with a break of a few months in between. I started taking it because I didn't feel safe enough with relying solely on condoms.
Pros: I spotted a little during the first month of use, but that was the only side-effect I experienced. The dosage is about as low as it gets, too, so I am feeling relatively okay about putting those hormones in my body. It's easy to use (I've never had a problem with remembering to take it on time), it's made my periods super short and light and predictable and it just makes me feel very safe.
Cons: I know that I don't want to take it forever, despite the low dosage. And now that I've been on it for nearly three years, I've started shopping around for other methods. Also, my health insurance only covers bcp if you're under 18. Since I'm not, that's 30 bucks a month, which is quite a bit for me.
Ease of use: As I said, I've never had any problems with remembering to take it on time (I keep it on the shelf in my bathroom so it's hard to miss, and I get up around the same time every day, anyway). And outside of that, it's just a pill you swallow. Done.
Effectiveness: Never had any problems with it. It's just a back-up method, though, so I've never had to rely on it fully. But I've always felt very safe and protected with it.
-------------------- -joey Scarleteen Volunteer
"The question is not who will let me, but who is going to stop me." -Ayn Rand Posts: 8424 | From: Cologne, Germany | Registered: Sep 2005
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I've been on the pill for about five months now. I didn't want to have to rely only on condoms, and I wanted to be able to have sex without condoms if I chose. Also, I'm not sure whether to put this under pros or cons, so I'll just say it here: my breasts grew about a cup size, and yeah, I kind of like them - I was a B and now I'm closer to a C - but I now have to go shopping for new bras, which is obnoxious as anything, and it's not like I was UNhappy with my former size. So I'm still kind of ambivalent over that issue.
Pros: Option of having sex without condoms. I also have a really irregular period - I've had it for over seven years and it's still out of whack - so starting on the pill made it MUCH more predictable and easy to manage, instead of me just having a weeklong range when my period might decide to show up.
Cons: Doesn't protect against STI's, of course. Also, having to remember to take it was kind of annoying for a while, but then I read (on these forums ) that someone else set her cell phone alarm to remind herself, and I started using that - much much easier to remember now.
Ease of use: Like I mentioned above, remembering to take it was the biggie for me until I started setting my alarm, and now it's just fine. Also the pill is so tiny (I'm on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo) that you can take it very discreetly, which is quite convenient.
Effectiveness: It's worked terrifically for me so far. No failures (*knock on wood*), and there's even a little bit of forgiveness in that if you've been taking it correctly otherwise, forgetting or taking one pill late won't seriously compromise effectiveness.
-------------------- So if you care to find me Look to the western sky As someone told me lately Everyone deserves the chance to fly Posts: 365 | From: DC | Registered: Aug 2006
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I've been on the pill, more or less, for 6 years now. I was initially put on it after a pretty serious emergency surgery for monster ovarian tumors at 13, and was told to remain on them until I plan to concieve to lessen the risk of the problem happening again. Ovulation in my case = a very bad thing.
Pros: Once I became sexually active, the extra backup that being on the pill offered was a major plus. My periods are so predictable now that I know the exact day and even hour that I'll set in. I've always had awful acne, and even though it's never cleared up, the pill does prevent "hormonal breakouts" -- deep painful pimples along the jawline.
Cons: It's made my periods much scanter and lighter, which is a BAD thing for me. My cramping worsened versus improving, and my menstrual discharge is painful during the first few days. I get extreme breast-swelling and pain before my withdrawal bleed, like the type a nursing mama gets. I'm currently switching brands to see if maybe the side effects can be lessened.
Ease of use: I'm not going to lie; I'm a flake. If I don't have an alarm, I forget. Luckily, I invested $20 in a handy, cute little pillcase I found online, that works for a full two years before requiring a battery change:
Beyond that, simple. Take the pill, you're protected from pregnancy.
Effectiveness: I've actually never used the pill alone save once, but I know it's as effective as it gets. My partner is super-responsible and cautious, so I have no issues with doubling up if I gotta be on 'em anyway. Posts: 4636 | From: USA/Northern Europe | Registered: Oct 2005
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Pros: -cleared up my acne -eases my boyfriend's mind... really, he was quite annoying and hounded me around the time my period was due, lol, this gets him to calm down, even though i kept telling him we were always being safe with condoms and stuff -haven't gained any weight or had an increase in cup size, personally -an increased sense of security, although other health issues i have still make it prudent to use a condom every time as well -free for me on my mom's insurance, and only $15 a month if i had to use my school's health plan
Cons: -well, that health issue does make it slightly less effective- it means I can't rely on it 100% all the time -sometimes makes me feel a little nauseous if I don't take it around the same time as a meal
Ease of Use: Pretty easy! I set my cell phone alarm (heh, I wonder if that's my thread "How do you remember your pill?" that LucysDiamonds referred to?) and it goes off every day at an obnoxious volume until i go and shut it off, and it works whether i'm out or at home or at work since my cell is rarely far away!
Effectiveness: -No trouble yet, but as mentioned twice above... interfering health issues require me to be extra safe and double up with condoms.
posted
I was on the Pill (Ortho Tri Cyclen) for about three years, including a break of a few months.
Pros: It cleared up acne so I was able to stop using prescription topical medication. It gave me (and, moreover, my parents) peace of mind in terms of pregnancy risk.
Cons: My experiences on the pill were overridingly negative. - I tend to naturally have frequent mood swings and feel a bit down the week before my period. However, on the pill, I'd suddenly start feeling, as if out of nowhere, almost sucidially depressed for a day or two. - My usually "small-seeming" 32DD chest became very (uncomfortably) prominent - I also noticed a libido drop and developed chronic BV - Taking the pill on an almost empty stomach or taking two pills at once would make me sick to my stomach and sometimes throw up. (Which meant getting sent home from school once or twice when I was otherwise healthy and wanted/needed to be there.)
Ease of use: I was busy and on the go, so I had a hard time remembering to take the pill everyday, more less try to take it at the same time. I really resented taking the pill when I wasn't sexually active. I tried to take a break which made my skin and moods jumpy, and meant I wasn't immediately protected when I did become sexually active again. BCPs were free on my parents' health insurance (as were many birth control options), but I'd have to pay (a lot) for it now with my current coverage.
Effectiveness: I had always used the pill as back up with condoms, and when doubling up I did not become pregnant. However, because I wasn't too good about taking it regularly, I would have had a higher risk had I relied on it alone.
In a lot of ways, birth control pills are very convenient and, were I to go back on a low dosage pill, it could be a lot better. However, I don't want to put my body (and mind) back through that again.
Here's where the eco-ness of my name comes in: I had done a lot of research on women and ecology and reproduction issues. On one hand, the invention BCP helped give women control over their reproduction; however, on the hand, it does some "crazy" stuff to your body hormonally, something that seems almost repressive in a way to me. Doctors know there are "better" options out there, but most continue to prescribe the pill first and foremost as a birth control method (if largely out of demand.) I also want to try to avoid taking medicine on a regular basis (although I'm all about taking medicine for migraines and cramps!) as long as possible.
So, while I have some very strong feelings against BCP, I realize it's a great option for many and wouldn't criticize anyone for taking it.
posted
Pros: you know the week you will be expecting your period, it protects against pregnancy, affordable, you only have to go the clinic when you need more packs (other than the annual physical check up along with the pap smear).
Cons: well the only time that i experienced the cons of this was during the first time around I was using this method so after a while, the pill had become annoying to take at the same time everyday and i would experience pregnancy scares every once in a while out of nowhere. Due to this, I switched to a different horomonal birth control all together. No cons experienced this time around.
Ease of use: The pill has been very easy between me and my current partner. The first use of this was for a year and half (Jan 2002-April 2003) My reminder during that time period was taking it before i started my school day which was at 8 AM. My partner would call to check to make sure i took it. He was my back up reminder for all this time. Aleese 28 was the brand that I have used last time and this time around. The pill was very affordable. I purchased at my sexual health clinic. It has worked out for the entire time I used this method. I returned to this method in September 2005 and still am on it to this present day. Same brand. Same pros.
Effectiveness: It has been very effective, it boosted my sex drive both times of using this method, no pregnancies to report during the first and this current time period of using this method. I have a better time of taking the pill than the first time around. I think when you get older, you tend to be more religious to your birth control, and respecting it for what it does for you and your body.
I got it all for free It's called Planned Parenthood a years supply and the ladies were soooo Nice.. and its all without my Parents knowing..
Pros: knowing that u had that Extra security and not having to take the Plan B method in scares. Knowing when your period was coming and being prepared...and its all FREE OH and No acne really
Cons: I have only been on it for 3 months but from time to time if I don't have food in my stomache i feel like i have to throw up..
Ease of use: I have my watch and my phone set for my alarm so its easy for me to remember.
Effectiveness: So Far So Good ( knock on wood)
Posts: 1 | From: My home in CALI | Registered: Jan 2007
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Pros: My partners really trusted and enjoyed our sexual relationship better when I was on the pill. I knew exactly when to expect my period, which was great, even though I've always been regular. And, naturally, I didn't have major concerns over pregnancy during my stint taking the pill.
Cons: I hate to say it, but I had overwhelmingly negative experiences on the pill. This may have just been an individual matter, but yuck, it was not pleasant. For vanity issues: I gained a lot of weight. I've always been fairly slender, and for some reason, I packed on weight excessively. My eating and exercise habits had not changed at all. Also, my skin seemed irritated all of the time, which was not pleasant. As for other issues, I became increasingly MEAN! I would snap at people out of the blue, and would pick fights. You'd have to know me, but that is NOT my style. Also, I cried all the time. Another thing I noticed is that my periods were much heavier and more painful using the pill. This baffled me, so I talked to my doctor. He put me on a variety of different types of BCP, trying to help me find the right type for my body, which actually ended up to my detriment. I developed ovarian cysts, which required surgery, and my current OB/GYN and doctor feel certain that it was due to my constant switching around on hormonal contraception.
Ease of use: I had a few problems remembering to take the pill. My lifestyle was pretty active, so unless I made a conscious effort to take them in the early morning or late evening, there would be a good chance I would forget altogether. But if you do remember to take it, it's such an easy BC method. Just swallow the pill with water and you're done. Nothing else to think about!
Effectiveness: Never got pregnant using it. And that's what it's there for -- to prevent pregnancy -- so I would definitely deem it effective.
Posts: 71 | From: USA | Registered: Nov 2006
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Pros: I started with the pill to help control my insane periods, and it's done a great job. The dose I'm on is a lower one, so there haven't been any noticeable side affects, and taking them each morning is simple and means that my partner and I have a bit more latitude in deciding to use condoms on a given day.
Cons: For the first month, it was like having PMS every day, and if I didn't take the daily dose at exactly the same time as the day before, my body would tell me and was NOT happy. After a few weeks, though, this went away and hasn't been back since. Another con is that if I'm stressed in the mornings or rushed, it's harder to remember to take on time.
Ease of use: Taking the pill itself is easy - they're tiny little things, all right there in a series in the packet so you know which one to take, etc. Remembering to take it on time, though, is harder - I've settled on just getting up at the same time every day and taking them first thing, because that's the only time when I know for sure where I'll be. Currently, they're paid for by my parents and through health insurance, which is convenient.
Effectiveness: I've been sexually active on them for about three months now, and so far no problems! My partner and I also use condoms most of the time, because we're each students who don't want to deal with even a single pregnancy scare until well after we're self-supporting and independent.
All in all, I'm glad that I'm taking them. Aside from controlling my periods, they're birth control which is completely under my control, all the time. It's very comforting.
Posts: 10 | From: West Coast | Registered: Nov 2006
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Pros: Only part of my reason to get on the pill was for the birth control part. My period had gone from regular, but rather heavy, to bouncing around all over (sometimes three full ones in a month) and enough pain and bleeding to keep me home for days. With the pill, i've little pain, i know exactly when it'll start (always seems to be three days from the first placebo), and it only last about 3 1/2 days.
Cons: For the first few months, my weight bounced up and down a little, but nothing big. I also noticed being a bit crankier every once in a while. I will have to say, this has made my already regular migraines even worse, but to my, the pros outweigh the cons.
Ease of use: I've found them relativly easy to use, aside from the few times I *almost* forgot to take it, though I still did within the alotted time. Generally, on the days I feel i have a greater chance of forgetting about it (being busy and whatnot) I just set my cellphone's alarm for it.
Effectiveness: At first it was hard to believe that this tiny pill will somehow prevent me from getting pregnant, but so far so good!
Posts: 28 | From: San Antonio, TX | Registered: Jun 2006
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Pros: I got on Orth-Tricyclen Lo primarily for horrible cramping, with the added bonus of birth control. I'm pleased to say that it's really worked wonders for me. I've had no noticable negative side effects, no weight gain, no spotting, nothing. At first it threw me off because I wasn't sure if it was working, but I definately knew when period time came around. My cramps are so much better now, my periods come right on time, and PMS is pretty much non-existant. I'm really glad I decided to go on the pill.
Cons: Now that I think about it, I get periodic boughts of nausea that may or may not be caused by the pill. They're not bad though, and completely worth it.
Ease of use: It's so easy. The pills are tiny and effortless to take. They aren't too hard to remember as long as you make sure you keep it at the top of your priority list. I usually take mine at 6 in the evening, but I don't worry if I'm a couple of hours off either way.
Effectiveness: I use a condom as backup most of the time, though I've used the withdrawal method and then no backup method (twice). The pill has served me well so far, though I don't think I'm going to push it so much in the future. It was a little scary with no backup method, and I was almost surprised when I saw that blood, right on schedule!
One of the reasons I didn't use a condom was because it would become uncomfortable, like there wasn't enough moisture. But I bought some lube and it's gotten a lot better, so I'll definately be using that backup from now on.
Posts: 2 | From: America! :D | Registered: Jan 2007
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i had been taking birth control pills almost since i started having a menstrual cycle because i had bad (painful cramping, heavy bleeding) periods, so this was to regulate them. i started with ortho-tri-cyclen, and was on that for a while. i then tried ortho-lo but did not like it because i had longer periods- over 8 or 9 days each month, then i went back to ortho-tri-cyclen, but because of my insurance had to have generic. i had two different generic brands, tri-nessa and tri-sprintec. i started having horrible migraines and sever depression around my periods. the doctor told me that you don't really know the amount of hormones in the generics because they are only regulated within a certain percent, and that this could be the cause. so i have to stop taking any for 3 months to get it out of my system, and then he is going to give me something different. my current roommate said she really severe depression with a generic, also.
Posts: 9 | From: Pennsylvania, U.S.A. | Registered: Jan 2007
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Pros: Keeps my uterus from trying to kill me. Without it, I bleed heavily. And hey, it's one more way to keep me from getting pregnant.
Cons: No cons really, unless you want to count $5 per month as depriving me of two Starbucks drinks per month? Not a real issue. I had been on stiffer formulas that made me really prone to weight gain. But I'm on something much better for me now.
Ease of use: I generally don't forget to take my meds. $5 per month on my insurance. Spiffy! And I can pick them up at the pharmacy in my supermaket.
Effectiveness: No problems thus far. No pregnancies thus far. So far so good.
Pros:Shorter,lighter bleeds(most of the time); TINY pills, so very little trouble swallowing them; great protection against pregnancy
Cons: Remembering to have water at my bedside so I can take the pill as soon as my alarm goes off and either get dressed or go back to sleep.
Ease of Use: I have no problem remembering to take my pill -- worst I've ever been off is about 2 hours, and that was thanks to me oversleeping anyway.
Effectiveness: Well, I'm not pregnant, never have been, so pretty darn good!
-------------------- "You owe me two lifetimes and a pair of perfect blue eyes." Posts: 407 | From: Georgia | Registered: Aug 2004
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Pros: I'm on Seasonale. I love the more infrequent and easily predictable periods - it helps me plan my life and my schedule more effectively. Also, it just takes a huge burden off of my mind given that I'm sexually active - I know I'd have worried too much just using condoms alone, but with two kinds of birth control, I can relax and feel safe.
Cons: The spotting can be annoying. Also, the discharge has been a little more colorful and prolific, which squicks me a bit. However, I've experienced no significant weight gain, no yeast infections, etc. And the spotting really only happened during one pill cycle where I was very forgetful, so.
Ease of use: I have a terrible time remembering to take my pill at the same time each day, because I'm a featherhead like that. However, aside from that, it's wonderful, and I know that both I and my BF feel better about the fact that I'm on the pill.
Effectiveness: I have had so far complete effectiveness pairing Seasonale with condoms.
-------------------- Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? Posts: 28 | From: Rhode Island | Registered: Oct 2006
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pros: easy to use, lighter regular period, very high effective rate, no negative side effects for me cons: have to take a pill every day at a relatively regular time, you can have negative side effects but I haven't had any, I'm quite happy with the pill and I've been on it for 2 years ease of use: my big thing is access, especially since I need confidentially and have no insurance, the pill is very easy to get ahold of. I have a one year perscription so I only need to go in once a year which is convenient as a busy college student. It's worked out in my relationship because we are less stressed about the possibility of preganancy and no longer have the financial burden of securing other bc methods (condoms). (disclaimer: we have both been tested, are in a serious relationship, etc. etc. I know there is the possibility of preg. but we choose to only use the bc pill) effectiveness:I have not gotten pregnant so I suppose that shows a high effectiveness rate, I take my pill every day so that lessens the risk as compared to accidentally forgetting a pill every now and then
Posts: 8 | From: Santa Cruz, CA | Registered: Jul 2005
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I am currently taking Ortho Tri-Cyclen and it has been growing great for me:
Pros: I haven't had any problems taking the pill on time.. and because this pill is the only one clinically proven to help clear moderate acne vulgaris I can definitely say that my acne is almost gone! For some reason I also feel like my boobs got bigger and I've actually lost about 3 pounds since I started the pill 3 months ago
Cons: None really. I really only experienced nausea for the first week and breast tenderness for the first month. Ever since then I feel as though I don't feel any effects of the hormones.
Overall experience: I believe the pill is not for everyone. It really depends on how your body will react to the brand and the hormones. So I say if you're scared, give it a try. Most physicians recommend a trial for the first 3 months, and if its not going so well for you, just switch to a different brand or try other methods of contraception.
Posts: 39 | From: Montreal | Registered: Sep 2006
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Pros: I've been on the pill for two years. I like it for a couple reasons; it allows for complete spontaneity, and if you've taken it correctly, you have no reason to worry when period time comes around. It was a great moment when I got my period the first time after I had had sex without a condom, with only the pill to rely on. Not that I generally advocate sex without condoms.
Another great thing is that the pill regulates my period to about a one hour window on the exact same day in my pill pack every month. It's really great, not having to wear pantyliners for like three days beforehand the way I did before I was on the pill.
Cons: My emotions went pretty crazy the first few weeks. It's hard to tell if that was my anxiety about taking the pill/knowing it was one step closer to having sex, or the hormones actually affecting me. After I got used to it though, it was fine.
Ease of use: Fine. I just take my pill every night before I go to bed (11 pm to 1 am, generally). Since I get three month supplies, it's pretty easy to get a refill in time.
Effectiveness: Still not pregnant : ) The Pill has become just another part of my life. Not weird, just habit. Does a pretty damn good job of eliminating those aspects of stress (aka pregnancy, or not knowing when a period will strike) from life.
Posts: 8 | From: WA | Registered: Jul 2006
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Addition to my experience with the pill: I've noticed I have to use stronger antiperspirant. Beforehand, I was fine with the store brand, Suave, or something pretty cheap. Now, I'm using the Secret Clinical Strength antiperspirant/deodorant. It's not a really huge deal to me, because it's happened slowly -- I went from Suave to Dove to Degree to Secret, increasing the strength every time. It's a little...kooky, but I really like the smell of this new stuff, and I wouldn't have even tried it if I didn't need it, so I'm not particularly complaining.
-------------------- "You owe me two lifetimes and a pair of perfect blue eyes." Posts: 407 | From: Georgia | Registered: Aug 2004
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I've been on the pill for a while now, both Yasmin and OTC-Lo. Overall, I've had a pretty positive experience, though not without its drawbacks.
Pros: Well, I'm not pregnant. I always know when I'm going to get my period (though I still get really anxious during the placebo week). My periods are actually heavier, but since before they were only 2-3 days and really light, I can't really complain. Lost weight on Yasmin, gained weight on OTC-Lo. It's convenient to get through my school's pharmacy.
Cons: I haven't had any really terrible side effects, but I have had some. Starting a new pill is pretty hard. The first few months of Yasmin I felt really anxious (more so than usual), had heart palpitations, tingling in my arms and legs, breast swelling (though I'm so small that it's not really noticeable) and have more frequent urination. But with OTC-Lo, since it's a triphasic pill (changes the amount of hormones every week), starting each week was like starting a new pill all over again. Also, the hormone levels in OTC-Lo weren't high enough for me, so my body tried to ovulate, which resulted in ovarian cysts (and spending a lot of money to get them diagnosed). Not too fun physically or in terms of my confidence in the pill. So I switched back to Yasmin.
I also get really emotional the first week of the placebos because the hormone levels drop. But it's just like regular PMS without the pill.
Ease of use: I've been on meds all my life, but I've always been really bad about taking them. Not this time. I always take my pill on time every day. If I know I'm going to be out at night, I take the pills with me. It's sort of a hassle, though, to be tied to a little pack of pills.
Effectiveness: It's been effective so far. But I'm always paranoid that it's not (it's my only form of protection, since neither of us really likes condoms, and we're married so we're not worried about STDs). It's expensive. The drug companies used to provide them at reduced prices to university health centers, but they just stopped doing it and the price jumped from $12 a month to $45. Ouch! I mean, it's a lot cheaper than having a kid, but it's a serious chunk out of my budget.
So I guess I've been happy with it. But it is sort of a drag to take it every day, and it's not 100% effective. I think I'm switching to an IUD, which will be more cost effective in the long run anyway.
Pros: I used to have VERY heavy and VERY painful periods, and that is definitely gone. There are often months when I don't bleed at all now, even though I take the placebo pills as planned.
Cons: Not really any cons that I can think of.
Ease of use: The first year or two I had a little bit of trouble remembering to take it at the same time everyday, but now it's just routine.
Effectiveness: Well I'm not pregnant so I'd say it's working... I also take them at the same time everyday now so I'm not worried about that aspect of it.
Posts: 213 | From: Spain | Registered: Oct 2003
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I've been on Seasonique for over a year now.
Pros : I certainly do enjoy only having a period four times a year. Saves a lot of money on pads (although I've been meaning to invest in a DivaCup)
Cons : I had spotting for a good 3 months, as well as having mini periods for those same 3 months. And i'm quick to spot when I get sick. Also, I didn't have a medical issue to go on a 3-month-at-a-time pill, so i'm starting to wonder if i should switch to a regular 28 day pill. Just because of the lack of knowing about long term effects of period suppression.
Ease of Use : Wake up, take a pill, go for the day. Sometimes i'll forget, and take it a little late, but overall it's been fine.
Effectiveness : I haven't had any reason to believe it's not effective. After all, I get my withdrawl bleed when i'm supposed to, with no spotting inbetween (usually), so i'm assuming it's fine. I definitly like to back up with a condom though, for double protection.
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Pros: Great at easing the mind of all worry, as a back up meathod, if using condoms as well
Cons: Doesn't stop STDs, and when first finding the right dosage for you, it's a pain in the butt for the first month or so, due to the hormones messing with your body and in some-cases unpleasent side-effects (all side effects go away, once your on a good dosage though... its just a little inconvenient at the start) Also, If your young, it's harder to get your hands on than just condoms. This forced me to tell my parents I was having sex (but in the end I'm glad I did, the fact that I told them and obviously wanted to be safe, made up for their dissapointment in me. It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it might be, lol.)
Ease of use: Some people worry about missing pills, but if you find the right time for you (I chose at night, before bed, because I wake up at all different times in the morning) I have a tool on my phone that can set an alarm to go off every day, so I just have a pleasent ring-tone go off at 9 o'clock every evening to remind me. It's a great help, and if I'm out, and not at home, I can always pretend I have a call and excuse myself to the rest room to take the pill
Effectiveness: The pill is supposed to be extreemly effective, and so far for me, it has. I also use condoms regularly though, I was just always really paranoid and nervous with them alone, so the pill has been really effective in letting me relax and know I'm double protected.
Notes:: I think it takes about a month to get ajjusted to the pill, so remember when you start, your still unprotected until your 2nd pack. Your gyno, or who ever gives it to you should say all that, but I was un-aware untill mine did, so yeah. Posts: 13 | From: usa | Registered: Nov 2006
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Pills tried: OrthoTriCycl ~8 years; OrthoLow 3 months; Seasonale 6 mos. I started taking the pill for treatment of pelvic pain.
Pros: I was on Ortho (back before the low dose came out) for nearly eight years. I went on it NOT for birth control but because I have Endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and severe pelvic pain. I stayed on the pill for eight years because my doctor told me that it would help my pelvic pain, I didn't question this advice until things started getting worse, and when I discontinued the pill I found that I actually felt better than when I was on it! I don't really have any "pros" about the pill in my experience.
Cons: I feel that being on the pill cause my Endometriosis to worsen, it also caused more ovarian cysts. I don't think my doctor was properly informed about the potential effects of the pill on Endometriosis, although it is commonly given for this disease, I feel it made my symptoms worse. When I stopped taking the pill I stopped getting so many ovarian cysts and my pain actually got better (although it was still so horrible that I ended up seeing a pain specialist and getting strong pain meds). I found out later from another doctor who only treats Endometriosis patients that the extra estrogen in the pill can actually promote the growth of Endometriosis. Based on my experience I wouldn't recommend the pill or any other hormonal pill for the treatment of Endometriosis. Unfortunately the only way to diagnose Endometriosis is by surgery (which I have had). However I know that many doctors give the pill for pelvic pain (as in my case) I feel this ended up causing me more problems in the long run. (I have now had three surgeries for the removal of Endometriosis and my doctor has recommended that I not take any hormonal treatments) Thus I have discontinued use of the pill. The pill also caused unpleasent mood changes.
Ease of use: The pill was fairly easy to take, since it comes in a pack with all the days marked.
Effectiveness: I didn't take the pill for pregnancy prevention, although I was active sexually both on the pill and off the pill. Now I keep track of my cycles to track pregnancy risk and thus far I have never gotten pregnant, but then again I think I would have a much harder time getting pregnant (even if I wanted to) given the Endometriosis which can cause infertility in some women.
-------------------- -meeneecat Posts: 21 | From: New York | Registered: Jul 2007
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Pros: I'm really paranoid about getting pregnant, so the effectiveness of the pill (99% and more if you take it every day at the same time) makes me feel a lot safer... when I use condoms as well (which is about 90% of the time), I don't worry at all. And when I don't use condoms, it's so nice to get my period during the placebo week and trust the little white pill. Also, my boobs grew a bit (I'm really flat-chested so, for me, it's a pro). I didn't really gain weight.
Cons: I got really bad mood swings during the first couple of months (like, I got really depressed some days). I also felt a bit strange at first - my breasts were tender and I felt bloated and just "off". Plus, it's stressful to remember to take it at the same time every day, though my cell alarm and keeping the pills on my wallet at all times (I carry it everywhere) make it easier. I get stressed when I throw up or get sick to my stomach because I know it interferes with the pill's absorbtion. another negative thing for me has been my boyfriend's reluctance to use condoms - he hates them, and he figures that I'm on the pill anyway so the condoms aren't necessary (I, on the other hand, oppose to having sex without them most of the time - and that makes us fight every once in a while). The cost is not irrelevant either (my mom knows, so she buys them for me, but I guess if you don't tell anyone, it can be a bit hard on your budget).
Ease of use: It's really easy to use, but you have to be conscious of the need to take it everyday - otherwise, the effectiveness drops dramatically.
Effectiveness: So far, no pregnancies for me! (hopefully it'll go on that way for a couple of years at least).
Posts: 5 | From: new york | Registered: Dec 2007
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I am on my 4th pack of Yasmin birth control.
Pros: Easing my mind about pregnancy risks even though I haven't had sex yet (just in regards to fooling around stuff)...knowing when my period is going to come and having it more regular (I used to get it once every 3 weeks instead of 4 which I hated)...my breasts increased in size a bit (they used to be very small, now they are not quite as big...this may be a pro or a con)
Cons: I gained about 5-7lbs , I had sore breasts for the first 2 packs, my acne didn't clear up like I had hoped, and the heaviest day of my period got heavier. I also had more cramps that I used to (I used to have none at all) but they still aren't frequent.
Ease of use: I don't mind taking it everyday, I just set my cell phone alarm for a reasonable time and I'm so stressed about having perfect use that I haven't missed one yet (knock on wood)
Effectiveness: As far as actually preventing pregnancy I'm not sure since I haven't had intercourse, but I'm not pregnant either, lol. My doctor said it would clear up my skin (I suffer mild acne that I can't get rid of) and it didn't yet.
Posts: 40 | From: Canada | Registered: Feb 2008
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I have been on the pill for almost 3 years now
Pros: The initial reason I was put on the pill was because I was diagnosed with PCOS. I had tried many other methods of dealing with the cysts but none of them worked. My obgyn suggested trying birth control to even out my hormone levels and that we would use it in a manner that I would get my period every 7 weeks rather than every 4. Although I still have some issues at certain times … the pro’s definitely outweigh in this situation.
Cons: Because I also have Vaso-vagal syncope (which causes seizures) it’s very difficult for me to be on any additional medications as they may change the usefulness of the seizure medication that I take. It’s a constancy of every 6 months being tested to make sure the levels of my medication are correct and that they’re not hurting any of my organs.
Ease of use: This is an easy thing for me because I always have to take my seizure medications anyway in the morning … so I take them both at the same time every morning.
Effectiveness: The pill as a birth control method for me is effective (though I generally back-up with condoms just to be sure) but with keeping the cysts away … well it’s a hit a miss depending on the month.
-------------------- "Sometimes the majority only means that all the fools are on the same side" ~Anon Posts: 3365 | From: Pennsylvania | Registered: Jan 2008
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Pros: Unlike most girls, I find the pill very easy to remember taking. I like knowing that I am a perfect user and am providing myself with something that will protect me 99.7% of the time from unwanted pregnancy. The pill has also made my periods much more manageable and has decreased cramps and other PMS symptoms.
Cons: I'm on a low-dose pill (Loestrin24Fe) and sometimes this causes me to miss my withdrawl bleed entirely. I freak out that I'm pregnant whenever this happens! On the other hand, I still get heavy periods some months so my period isn't COMPLETELY regulated and I still get some cramps. I guess nothing is perfect! Also, the 0.3% drives me crazy, but like I said, nothing is perfect.
Ease of use: The pill has been very easy for me to use. I have an alarm that goes off on my cell phone each night at 7:55 PM and I take my pill between then and 8:00 PM. Simple! I've never missed a pill or taken one late and I've been on birth control pills for 2 years.
Effectiveness: Well, I've never been pregnant! My boyfriend and I like to back up my pills with condoms just for extra safety. Knowing that I am getting the best protection possible (without remaining abstinent) really helps to ease my mind when I start worrying about statistics.
Posts: 64 | From: USA | Registered: Feb 2008
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I've been on Yaz for about a year Pros: I had horrible periods (awful cramps and it would last for around 10 days). The pill has definately improved that, and I feel a lot more comfortable using both the pill and condoms than just condoms alone. Cons: It took me a long time to get regulated on it (about 6 months). I had a major drop in libido and natural lubrication, and my biggest problem is it is a lot easier to be careless and not use condoms when I'm on the pill. Ease of use: It's not hard to remember to take if it's important to you. Effectiveness: I haven't gotten pregnant :-)
Posts: 2 | From: Tennessee | Registered: Oct 2007
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I was on Microgynon 30 for 3 months and have now asked to switch to Femodette due to side effects!
Pros: Easy to remember to take due to being available in 28 day variety. I didn't get pregnant. No nausea (which some of my friends experienced)
Cons: Headaches Heavier, MORE painful periods (even though I was promised lighter ones) Mood swings and depression starting in the second month - this was the worst side effect, as if affected not only me but also my boyfriend. Even though I have always been a very positive person and never even suffered from bad PMS, I found myself extremely tearful, focusing on silly little imperfections in my life and often crying for absolutely no reason. i felt a complete lack of control. My boyfriend, although extremely understanding, also felt that I had changed beyond belief from the happy girl that he met.
Ease of use: I've never found it an issue remembering to take it in the morning etc.
Effectiveness: I didn't get pregnant, however i was using condoms as well, so I suppose I can't really comment on this.
Overall, I obviously would not recommend this pill!!
Posts: 24 | From: UK | Registered: Mar 2008
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Pros: Of course, the fact that in terms of pregnancy, it's stress free. My period, usually very heavy, long, and irregular, shortened dramatically to only two days of light to medium bleeding. I am pretty sure my breasts are a little bigger now, but they are sorer, too.
Cons: There are overwhelmingly more of these. My body just CHANGED after I started the pill - I was almost 19 at the time, had been menstruating and at my adult height for 7 years. I am still on the pill after 4 years, but I have finally decided to quit, against all "scientific logic" and convenience. I feel like I no longer understand my body, and I can't distinguish between the natural and gradual changes that accompany aging and those that were brought on suddenly by the pill (and I am 22 now! I shouldn't feel old yet!). My metabolism is simply different now, as is my body's water retention and weight balance. I was a slender 115 when I started the pill (after my first year of college, and my diet was of the "freshman fifteen" variety all year), and I now sit at around 130. I didn't exercise at all before the pill (when I weighed 115), and I exercise for 30-45 minutes a day (heavy cardio - now that I weigh 130), but it is simply impossible for me to lose weight without making myself crazy. I actually eat healthier and less now than I used to, and I am still always bloated and uncomfortable. My skin is less resilient (indentations sometimes take 10-20 minutes to disappear from my legs) and I have spider veins. Like clockwork - I take the pill at 9 and if I stay up until after 2, I get nauseous and have to go to bed if I want to avoid hurling. This has occurred under many circumstances when I was paying absolutely no attention to time or time-related light cues, and I am convinced it is not psychosomatic. And my libido is pretty low now (some perspective: I was one of those girls who masturbated multiple times a day starting from before I knew what sex was), to the point where my boyfriend has to physically coax me through lots of foreplay to get me lubricated, and orgasming is more difficult now than it was before. And believe me, that was NOT a problem for me before.
Ease of use: Easy for people who can swallow pills and keep a schedule, but there have definitely been many awkward or inconvenient situations when I had to choose between my will to stay un-pregnant and social discomfort.
Effectiveness: Well, I'm not pregnant, so...
Overall, the pill is really a case of "too good to be true." Sure, it sounds nice to be able to control your fertility with a simple daily pill and then have all the sex you want, but it simply can't be safe to be on a permanent hormone regimen. Doctors insist that it's safe, but they were educated on it when they were students, and in most cases they are basing their recommendations on a really old lack of knowledge. I really value scientific studies, but I think it's fair to assume that doctors still don't understand all the mysteries of fertility and hormones. That, combined with the fact that hormones are the backbone of mood, health, and energy, is enough to give me my doubts. The fact that different bodies react differently to the same hormones is enough to allow the drug companies to claim that they don't cause all of these problems like weight gain, etc, but the fact is that we as humans really do have an intuitive consciousness of our bodies that simply cannot be accessed by others. And I think it's too precious to hide under a mountain of artificial chemicals.
Posts: 1 | From: California | Registered: Apr 2008
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I've been on Yasmin for a couple of months now, and I like it a lot.
Pros: It makes my period shorter and very predictable (I hated my irregular periods).
Cons: The first two weeks I was taking it, I had a few mood swings and some nausea, but that went away rather quickly. I didn't gain weight or anything like that.
Effectiveness: If you take it correctly and consistently the failure rate is less than 1%. And if you pair the pill with correctly used condoms, the effectiveness comes pretty close to 100%. I'm very good about taking my pills on time, so the only thing I worry about is getting diarrhea. However, according to my gyno, the diarrhea has to be very severe in order to pose a problem, so I guess you'd need to have a virus or a stomach bug for your protection to be compromised.
Ease of use: I'm a bit forgetful, and sometimes I'm very busy with school, but taking the pills on time has not been a problem for me. Before starting the BCPs, I invested in a nice digital watch with an alarm. My watch is always set for my pill-taking time, so that makes forgetting pretty much impossible. I also have a reminder written on a little white-board in my room, so that I won't forget to take my pills with me if I'm going out. If you're a bit absent-minded like me, I suggest setting an alarm on your cell-phone or watch or something--it really does work. Also, I have found that when it comes to something as important as birth control, you're just not that likely to forget. In fact, most of the time I remember to take my pill even without the help of an alarm, just because not getting pregnant is such a priority for me.
Posts: 149 | From: Costa Rica | Registered: Sep 2007
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I've been on the pill for sevenish years. That's a long time when you're twenty.
Pros: I went on it because my cramps were so bad I couldn't get out of bed for three days each month. I've barely had any since then (but I remember how it felt...) I like not having to use a condom with my boyfriend (been with him for 8 months, both tested... etc). It's just a personal preference.
Cons: I've been on it so long, I don't know how my body is without it... I'm thinking pretty seriously about going off it when my boyfriend moves abroad in the fall. I don't like the idea of regulating my body in this way for so many years (a third of my life so far... ick...)
Effectiveness: I've never been pregnant. But I also haven't been having sex for the vast majority of the time I've been on the pill.
Ease of use: I've never had a problem remembering it.
Posts: 2262 | From: in transition | Registered: Apr 2008
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I was on four different kinds of pill: Organaon, Marvelon, Mercilon and Loestrin 20. I think they were all a mistake and I wish someone had warned me this might happen.
Pros: I found it reassuringly reliable, I was pretty sure I was protected and although I didn't mind having irregular periods before it made them regular, so I would know if I needed to take a test (once I had no period for 9 weeks- right after the first time I had sex! argh). It was simple and didn't get in the way of anything (or so I thought...read on)
Cons: The first three affected my moods quite dramatically, with big mood swings or depression (I have had depression before) but the fourth was the real problem, because it was more subtle and gradual I didn't really notice it was happening. I just became more and more lethargic, un-creative, and uninterested in things I used to do. I gradually gave up all my hobbies and did less and less college work too, I just stayed in eating stuff and watching TV. It was like I was on boring pills. As well as that, I became less and less interested in sex, which caused a major problem in my relationship and probably contributed to us breaking up because I couldn't understand what was happening. I feel so much better now I have finally stopped taking it- I feel just like myself again, which I had forgotten about.
Ease of use: Remembering to take it wasn't so much of a problem, although sometimes I would stay over places unexpectedly and not have it in the morning, but I was hardly ever more than 12 hours late so it was all fine. I got it free from a clinic a bus ride away, all very easy.
Effectiveness: I've never been pregnant, and I was using it on its own, so it probably works. I was a bit worried at one point when I was on antibiotics and forgot that they interfered with it, so I had to get the morning after pill- that's about it.
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I've been on the pill since last December... so almost a year!
Pros: Definitely having a regular bleed is the best thing about the pill for me. Before I went on it, I have cycles that lasted 28-53 days and I never knew when my period was coming. Also, on the first pill I went on, it eliminated the intense mood swings I would get around my ovulation time. Also, I've been finding out that I'm really sensitive to other methods. Condoms aren't so much of a problem, except we need to use lube with them and I've been reacting to every lube that we've tried. I also like how effective the pill is.
Cons: On the first pill I was on (alesse) I had incredibly short periods. This would have been fine except I was still experiencing my incredibly painful cramps. Also, I had issues with vaginal dryness and lack of libido. To fix this, the doctor put me on Ortho-Cyclen because it had higher levels of estrogen and she said that might fix the libido and dryness problem. It did, except I was so nauseous and INCREDIBLY depressed on it that I had to go off it after only a month and a half. I've just started Minovral and so far so good.
Ease of use: I'm incredibly good at remembering to take medication because I need to take a pill for my asthma every night. I used to have an alarm on my laptop at the same time everynight, but now that I have a cell phone it's on there. Oh, and the alarm is INCREDIBLY annoying so it's hard to ignore. I haven't ever been late taking a pill by more than 4 hours (I was at an Elton John concert ) and I've never missed one. As for refills and stuff, the pharmacy is really good about giving me three packs at a time. And if it's an emergency, the pharmacist can renew a prescription (had to do it with my inhaler once) free of charge.
Effectiveness: Well, I've never gotten pregnant that I know of. Yesterday, I was worried I was (because of the sideeffects of the cyclen), but I took a test (my first one!!) and it really reassured me about the power of hormones.
Posts: 206 | From: Canada | Registered: Mar 2008
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Pros: Umm... I know when my period's going to be. I was always regular, but this counts the days for me.
Cons: Where to begin. I was put on the pill for hormonal regulation to try to control chronic cystic mastitis. Since then, the cysts in my breast tissue have gone from "random lumps" to "random PAINFUL lumps" and have increased in number, however my doctor says to just "give it more time." My acne has increased and the pimples are EXTREMELY PAINFUL AND HUGE. My back is covered in giant painful pustules. I have near constant headaches. I'm cranky all the time. I have nightmares. I have cramps all the time. The pill makes me so nauseous I can't eat and, as a result, have lost over 15 lbs in just 2.5 months. Given my size, this reflects a loss of OVER 10% of my total body weight. I'd struggled for years to get to a "healthy weight" and now all that's undone for me.
My sex drive is gone. Totally. I'm averse to sex, most days. My "horny" days (usually once every two weeks) are not something that I'm actually desiring sex, simply that the idea doesn't make me feel sick. My breasts have grown, despite weight-loss. I'm constantly exhausted.
There is NOTHING I can say about this that makes me happy. My doctor won't listen to me, so I'll be going to my public health unit to try and get the NuvaRing next week (they provide it for 10 dollars, which is half what I'm paying for my pill, because my doctor wouldn't offer me generics even though I have no drug plan).
Ease of use: It's 25 bucks a pack for something that makes me feel sick. I have trouble taking it at the same time every day, because my schedule is COMPLETELY different each day.
Effectiveness: My fiancé and I have yet to have sex while I was on the Pill.
Posts: 4 | From: North America | Registered: Dec 2008
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Heather says: "I have to say, too, that while I don't yet have a solid answer on this, I have some reason to think that some health issues I have now may have been influenced by the pill. I also started to feel, towards the end, like the pill just distanced me from my body, cycles and sexuality in a way I really didn't care for."
I am doing some research for an anovulatory friend, who has not experienced much of a menstrual cycle in the year and a half since she has been off of birth control. Her doctor didn't tell her much, so I am looking for information and experiences of other women.
-------------------- For the love of Earth, Gaia Love Posts: 4 | From: Ontario, Canada | Registered: Dec 2008
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I've been taking Ortho-Tricyclene for five months.
Pros: I don't have to think about a birth control method when I'm about to have sex. I don't have to worry about the condom breaking if I don't use enough lube. I don't worry about a BC method failure. Contrary to what I read, I enjoy sex more and want it more now then I did then and require less lube. It's like no worries and way less friction and not having to deal with the stupid condom.
Cons: A lot of cramps the first month and a half, but now they're gone. My breasts grew half a size. Not a big problem, but they were big enough already! My boyfriend would file that under "pro" however.
Ease of use: Really easy, especially since I have an alarm on my cell phone. Biggest problem is when the phone dies or when I was working nights in December. Also, I qualify for free birth control pills from Planned Parenthood and they give me a years worth.
Effectiveness: I haven't gotten pregnant yet, so, so far, so good. When I went to the PP where I live instead of where I was visiting for a refill (one clinic gave me 6 months and another clinic gave me a years worth) and expressed some concern for being pregnant because I didn't know the window my period came in, they told me that as long as I take it at the same time every day, no need to worry.
-------------------- Learning about sex from pornography is like learning about physics from action movies. Posts: 9 | From: California | Registered: Jan 2009
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Chryselle 28 (generic for Lo-Ovral 28), 3 or so years
Pros: No cramps! Seriously, that is the main reason I went on the pills in the first place. I only started using them as actual birth control about six months ago, two and a half years after I started using them. I also get waaaaaay shorter and lighter periods, especially since I've started using them as actual birth control and thus have been making sure I use them correctly. I think I've maybe put on ten pounds since I started using them, but I think it's just coincidence since I was 15 when I started and I think it's natural to weigh a little more at 18 than 15. I also really, really love being able to tell when I'm going to get my withdrawal bleed, since I was fairly irregular before. Now I know, every fourth Wednesday, usually around eight or so in the morning but as late as 3 or 4 in the afternoon. I never had sex before I used it, but I really don't think it's reduced my natural lubrication or levels of arousal (I can't imagine what I'd be like if this is my sex drive diminished! )
Cons: Again, I'm not sure if it's the pills or if this is just the way I've grown up, but I have been experiencing some pretty depressing bouts two weeks before my period. This has only cropped up in the last few months and I've been on the pill for three years, but I've only been taking it relatively error-free for nine months, so it may or may not be a side-effect.
Ease of use: Before I was using it as birth control, I didn't stress about taking my pill on time and so I just took it 'before bed' - the problem being that bed could be anywhere between 9 and 1 in the morning. Now I have a phone alarm set for 9 so it's pretty easy to remember. Sometimes I'm out of the house at that time, so it can be a little stressful. I usually manage to get the pill in within three hours regardless. My boyfriend has been really encouraging about it, and I can count on him to remind me to take it if I ask him to
Effectiveness: I've never gotten pregnant! Posts: 222 | From: USA | Registered: Oct 2008
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In an earlier post, I mentioned that I was on Ortho Tri-Cyclen. I have since switched to Yasmin. I found that OTC was still causing me quite a bit of moodiness that both my and boyfriend was noticing.
Pros of Yasmin: My skin has been fantastic. Whereas I noticed my skin only improved a certain week on OTC, my acne has cleared up COMPLETELY with Yasmin. I can't tell you how much this has really eliminated a daily stress factor in my life. I've also noticed that after switching to Yasmin that I almost instantly dropped 5 pounds. However, I have since realised that this was just water weight as Yasmin either contains a diuretic or one of the hormones act as a diuretic (can't remember which one it is).
Cons: I had terrible migraines during my second week of pills. Not during my withdrawal week. I also had a week of depression. But I seem to have a problem with depression no matter what pill I try so that may not be due to Yasmin itself. I have also noticed that I am constantly tired or feeling week. Yasmin does contain about 3 ug of progesterone, much higher than many brands, which may be a factor to this, but its potency may also be different. Its just something I had in mind since a recent journal article came out detailing how progesterone in bcp can affect muscle gain. I do exercise regularly, but I realised over the past few months that b/c I was tired, I had not motivation to go the gym and hence, the effects were compounded and I felt rather weak.
Conclusion: Overall, Yasmin was one of the better brands that I have taken. The symtoms are generally manageable. But because of the unbelievable migraines and the lack of energy, I have decided to switch and try the Nuvaring. It was suggested by my doctor that perhaps the constant release of hormones throughout my cycle with the Nuvaring may help with my issues of mood swings and migraines. I will post back in a few months to give me review. Hopefully it works out well!
Posts: 39 | From: Montreal | Registered: Sep 2006
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posted
I have been on Yasmin for about four months.
Pros: I had originally been put on the pill because of my severe menstrual cramps (I can't move almost at all for the first two days of my period, it just hurts too much. And I couldn't take pain medicine because they kept giving me stomach problems). After taking the pill, my period lightened a bit and it was almost completely pain free. I could now walk around and carry on with my life despite my period. I get a tiny bit of cramping when I first get my period but that's it.
Con: I have been having much more bad moods since being put on Yasmin. It also gives me bad headaches and nausea at times (it's kind of random for me).
Ease of use: At the beginning I had a lot of trouble taking it on time. But now it's become sort of a habit for me. You just have to keep trying to remember and eventually it will become a habit hopefully.
Effectiveness: Haven't really been on it long enough to tell (almost always used a second method of birth control).
Side note: Funnily I have not noticed a change in acne. My acne was clearing up before I started the pill anyways so I barely had any. But from what I do have I don't see it decreasing.
posted
I've been on the pill for about a year and a half.
Pros: When I first got on the pill I thought taking a pill every day would be incredibly annoying, for some reason, but if wasn't at all. I find it incredibly easy. Also, there are definitely some cool side effects- BREASTS, FINALLY. I'm an A cup on the pill, but that's definitely enough. I think the real reason I refuse to get off of the pill is holding on to those babies. I haven't noticed any changes in my weight, or in my skin. My acne's gone down a bit, but I think it's unrelated. My period has also lightened and my cramps and PMS have gotten a bit better.
Cons: The main problem for me regarding the pill is remembering to take it at the same time every day. Which I can manage most of the time, but I'll end up taking it at like 11pm some days, which is obviously bad. I used to have an alarm on my phone, not sure why I gave that up.
When I first began taking it I noticed some side effects, namely some headaches, nausea and some pretty gnarly mood swings. But that fixed itself a month or two in, and I don't feel anything negative now.
Ease of use: The pill has been a good choice for me. It's very affordable; I use Levlen ED, and it's $20AU for a 4 month supply. I don't know how that compares to other contraceptives, but it seems very reasonable to me. And it's very convenient when I remember to take it on time.
Effectiveness: To be honest I've only completed intercourse once while on the pill, so there's not much of a threat of pregnancy there. I started using it before I successfully completed it and I've stayed on it because I like being on it, so I can't tell you too much about it's actual contraceptive usefulness.
Posts: 13 | From: Australia | Registered: Oct 2009
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I was on the pill for a while, Microgynon 30 then Yasmin.
Pros: Lighter/more predictable periods, like others have said. Also if you can get into the habit of taking it at the same time every day, it can become part of your daily routine. There are a few different pills, so if one has unacceptable side effects you can ask your doctor about trying a different one.
Cons: Remembering to take it at all can be a problem, and taking it within a certain time frame. Keeping track of whether it's a pill week or not is an added thing to remember. I have IBS and stomach upsets can affect the pill's effectiveness, so this wasn't a good choice for me. I wouldn't recommend the pill to anyone who is anxious about pregnancy, due to a.) having to remember to take it, and keeping stocked up b.) it having various interactions with other drugs and c.) it being affected by stomach problems.
Ease of Use: I found this method too stressful to stick with. This was partly due to my unrelated anxiety problems, but there are various things to remember and keep track of with this method, and you do need to be confident that you can keep on top of it.
Effectiveness: Well, I didn't get pregnant while on the pill, so that's good, heh.
Posts: 156 | From: europe | Registered: Oct 2009
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Ooh, I wanted to add a couple of things but I don't know how to edit posts.
Another plus for me was that all contraception (as far as I know) is free where I am, so there were no issues of affordability.
A minus point was that I did put on weight and became pretty depressed while on the pill; it's hard to say how far this was related to the pill, but I thought I'd throw it in anyway.
Posts: 156 | From: europe | Registered: Oct 2009
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Have tried Ortho Tri-Cyclin Lo and Sprintec (a generic)
Pros: I know when my period will come each month. It's been effective.
Cons: I've had a bad experience been taking it for 2 yrs. Have had yeast infections, moodiness (I break down crying for absolutely no reason), felt depressed, have no regular discharge I'm absolutely dry even during sex (have to use lube), when I have sex it's painful (but that could be cuz I have yet another infection)and worst of all loss of sex drive. I've also gained a few pounds but that hasn't bothered me as much as the other stuff.
Ease of Use: set my alarm every morning and take it then get up or I go back to sleep. Having had any problems taking it other that I have dropped several out of the Ortho pack and have to frantically search for it-the pills are so tiny they are hard to see. And if I forget a water bottle they're hard to swallow they stick to my tongue or roof of my mouth. Other than that they're easy to take.
Effectiveness: Very effective. Haven't gotten pregnant in the 2 yrs. But you have to be careful if you take other meds like all those antibiotics I had to take after yeast infections. I had to abstain when taking those (for about a week). And using a back-up like condoms isn't effective if you are using creams for your yeast infection along with the antibiotics. You just should abstain for highest effectiveness.
Posts: 4 | From: US | Registered: Dec 2009
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Pros: Peace of mind regarding pregnancy, knowing when I am going to get my period, and how long it will be (figuring out how long it would be took a few months but I have an accurate estimate now).
Cons: Having to take the it everyday!
Ease of use: It has been easy for me to use for the most part, I rarely forget. I have an alarm that goes off when I am supposed to take it, and my partner does too, just in case. I must say that it has been easy to access my birth control, even though I live in a rural area and I've had to work around my parents. My county has a sexual health program that covers all my birth control costs for any method that I feel comfortable using. I am fortunate to be able to access that and I realize that all teens may not have something similar available to them.
Effectiveness: So far this method has been effective for me, I haven't gotten pregnant yet. One of my favorite things about the pill is I get my period at a scheduled time each month so I don't have to worry about having false pregnancy scares from irregular periods.
-------------------- - Kaydee
Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocrities. The latter cannot understand it when a man does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses his intelligence. - Albert Einstein Posts: 55 | From: NY | Registered: Dec 2008
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![[Smile]](smile.gif)
) that someone else set her cell phone alarm to remind herself, and I started using that - much much easier to remember now.![[Mad]](mad.gif)
Not too fun physically or in terms of my confidence in the pill. So I switched back to Yasmin.![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
Ouch! I mean, it's a lot cheaper than having a kid, but it's a serious chunk out of my budget.![[Frown]](frown.gif)
, I had sore breasts for the first 2 packs, my acne didn't clear up like I had hoped, and the heaviest day of my period got heavier. I also had more cramps that I used to (I used to have none at all) but they still aren't frequent.
![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
) and I've never missed one. As for refills and stuff, the pharmacy is really good about giving me three packs at a time. And if it's an emergency, the pharmacist can renew a prescription (had to do it with my inhaler once) free of charge.![[Wink]](wink.gif)
)![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
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