Alright so this is my problem..

- Irregular periods
- Acne
- Excess in body hair
- Underdeveloped breasts (Especially what's considered normal for in my family)

Sooo.. it seems that I have a hormone imbalance and should go on a BC, but the problem is that my family has a history of heart problems and I also have very poor circulation (mostly in my legs) - thereby making it more likely for me to experience blood clotting. I want my problems fixed, but I'm afraid that if I take BC I'll have really bad side effects. BTW, I'm only 18, not sure if that should make any difference in anything or not.

Are there any BC out there that don't carry possible side-effects that I should be concerned about? And, if not, are there any other options for me besides birth control?

You may be too high in testosterone. Your gyno may give you a prescription for a compounded estrogen gel or cream to balance it out.

If your estrogen gets too high you will gain weight.

Good luck.

I'm not an expert, but your symptoms (except for the small breast issue) sound like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS. You might try visiting the message board here for PCOS.

I have PCOS. I have acne, multiple cysts on my ovaries, insulin-resistance, irregular periods etc. Excess hair growth is a symptom as well, but I don't have that (yet!).

Just remember you are not alone. I think up to 10 percent of women are estimated to have this condition. come visit us in the PCOS forum and talk to your doctor about treatments for this condition. I'm sure you can find a treatment that won't increase your risk for blood clots/heart disease, but will help your problems. If you let a hormone imbalance continue there can be problems later in life like heart disease, diabetes etc. Good luck! :wave:

Have you had your cortisol tested??