DKScully
05-16-2006, 05:49 PM
Hi everyone! I guess I should start with a little bit of background info, regarding my experiences with birth control.
I am 26 years old and suffer from PMDD, to the extent that I am on Lexapro for the emotional symptoms. My cramps are horrible, my flow is heavy for at least seven days per cycle (which is typically around 21 days, but still varies). I've had all kinds of tests--blood, ultrasound, and apparently I am fine, physically. I'm just "unlucky." Thus, I've been on birth control to ease my symptoms.
I started with Yasmin, which made me totally anxious, depressed, moody, etc., even on the anti-depressants. And, it didn't even regulate my cycle that well. I was switched to NuvaRing, which had less deterimental emotional effects for me, but didn't regulate my cycle (i.e., my period would come before I took the ring out--it was the same deal on Yasmin... it would come before I reached the placebo pills). Not to mention, my sex drive was low on all of these, and the addition of Lexapro made it worse, of course.
Yesterday, I went to the gynecologist, yet again asking what I can do about my symptoms (I tried stopping birth control for a few months to see how I did without it.... Still bad news.) He recommended Loestrin 24 Fe, saying that the extra three days of hormones (as opposed to the typical 21) might shorten my days of bleeding and decrease PMS symptoms.
I've done some searches online, and since this formulation of Loestrin just came out in February, I wasn't able to find much information, so I would like to hear ANYTHING any of you know about this medication, even if it only serves to ease my mind when starting something so newly introduced. Here are a few things I'm curious about:
1. Does anyone know how different this is from older versions of Leostrin? (I BELIEVE anyway, that other formulations have been out there for a while?)
2. What kinds of side effects do people suffer with this pill? Weight gain? Improved or increased acne? Emotional symptoms--depression, mood swings?
[deleted]
4. Is it possible to REALLY have less than three days of bleeding per month, as they advertise?
ANY thoughts about this would be appreciated, even if you've only heard about it through the grapevine. I am just nervous about it because there seems to be so little info about it out there.
Thanks so much!
I am 26 years old and suffer from PMDD, to the extent that I am on Lexapro for the emotional symptoms. My cramps are horrible, my flow is heavy for at least seven days per cycle (which is typically around 21 days, but still varies). I've had all kinds of tests--blood, ultrasound, and apparently I am fine, physically. I'm just "unlucky." Thus, I've been on birth control to ease my symptoms.
I started with Yasmin, which made me totally anxious, depressed, moody, etc., even on the anti-depressants. And, it didn't even regulate my cycle that well. I was switched to NuvaRing, which had less deterimental emotional effects for me, but didn't regulate my cycle (i.e., my period would come before I took the ring out--it was the same deal on Yasmin... it would come before I reached the placebo pills). Not to mention, my sex drive was low on all of these, and the addition of Lexapro made it worse, of course.
Yesterday, I went to the gynecologist, yet again asking what I can do about my symptoms (I tried stopping birth control for a few months to see how I did without it.... Still bad news.) He recommended Loestrin 24 Fe, saying that the extra three days of hormones (as opposed to the typical 21) might shorten my days of bleeding and decrease PMS symptoms.
I've done some searches online, and since this formulation of Loestrin just came out in February, I wasn't able to find much information, so I would like to hear ANYTHING any of you know about this medication, even if it only serves to ease my mind when starting something so newly introduced. Here are a few things I'm curious about:
1. Does anyone know how different this is from older versions of Leostrin? (I BELIEVE anyway, that other formulations have been out there for a while?)
2. What kinds of side effects do people suffer with this pill? Weight gain? Improved or increased acne? Emotional symptoms--depression, mood swings?
[deleted]
4. Is it possible to REALLY have less than three days of bleeding per month, as they advertise?
ANY thoughts about this would be appreciated, even if you've only heard about it through the grapevine. I am just nervous about it because there seems to be so little info about it out there.
Thanks so much!
Sponsor
ace8484
05-18-2006, 09:36 AM
Loestrin 24 FE is a very new pill introduced to the market within the last few months, It may be unlikely that you will get a response regarding the 3-day period, because of how new it is. The loestrin 24 Fe website states that this occurs within 6 cycles (6 months). I don't think anyone has taken 6 packs of loestrin 24 yet, so you may not have an accurate response.
BTW, I take mircette(kariva) and my period usually only lasts about 3-4 days, and hasn't lasted longer than 4 days in over a year.
There are lots of different loestrins!
Loestrin 24 Fe: newest, has the same hormones as loestrin 1/20 but with 24 active pills, and 4 placebo iron pills, supposedly a shorter period?
Loestrin 1/20: 1mg norethindrone, and 20mcg of ethinyl estradiol, this is a "low-dose" pill, no iron in the placebo's
Loestrin 1/20 Fe: same as loestrin 1/20 but with iron in the placebo pills
Loestrin 1.5/30: higher dose pill than loestrin 1/20, with more of both hormones.
Loestrin 1.5/30 Fe: with iron
For your other questions, you might want to search the forums for any of these pills, which have the same amounts of the same hormones (only 21 days of hormones, not 24): Junel 1/20, Loestrin 1/20, Microgestin 1/20, and their respective Fe versions with iron.
BTW, I take mircette(kariva) and my period usually only lasts about 3-4 days, and hasn't lasted longer than 4 days in over a year.
There are lots of different loestrins!
Loestrin 24 Fe: newest, has the same hormones as loestrin 1/20 but with 24 active pills, and 4 placebo iron pills, supposedly a shorter period?
Loestrin 1/20: 1mg norethindrone, and 20mcg of ethinyl estradiol, this is a "low-dose" pill, no iron in the placebo's
Loestrin 1/20 Fe: same as loestrin 1/20 but with iron in the placebo pills
Loestrin 1.5/30: higher dose pill than loestrin 1/20, with more of both hormones.
Loestrin 1.5/30 Fe: with iron
For your other questions, you might want to search the forums for any of these pills, which have the same amounts of the same hormones (only 21 days of hormones, not 24): Junel 1/20, Loestrin 1/20, Microgestin 1/20, and their respective Fe versions with iron.
DKScully
05-19-2006, 11:07 AM
Thanks for your reply!
Yeah, I did some research, and I'm starting to wonder if my OB/GYN has any reason whatsoever to think this will be better for me. With the lower hormones, I would think, if anything, my periods might be worse than they were on yasmin or NuvaRing, though I guess maybe the three extra days of hormone might make the difference? And I am not all that optimistic that it'll help with acne or mood swings.... Ugh!
Yeah, I did some research, and I'm starting to wonder if my OB/GYN has any reason whatsoever to think this will be better for me. With the lower hormones, I would think, if anything, my periods might be worse than they were on yasmin or NuvaRing, though I guess maybe the three extra days of hormone might make the difference? And I am not all that optimistic that it'll help with acne or mood swings.... Ugh!
ace8484
05-19-2006, 07:02 PM
Estrogen is what stimulates the endometrial lining to thicken in the first 14 days of a "natural" cycle (without oral contraceptives), so maybe less estrogen means less endometrial thickening, and a lighter period?
sapphire99
05-20-2006, 01:58 AM
This is the first I have heard about a new LoEstrin pill. I took Loestrin 1/20 for 3 months and decided I couldn't take it anymore! It made my face break out so bad, I lost all my libido, I gained 5 pounds and was depressed alot! I thought it was great though that I had about a 4 day period on it. I am now about to start my 4th month on Demulen... I am trying to stick this out and see if it stops causing me to break out, beacause other than that it is perfect... I still have libido, I dont feel as if I have gained any weight, not depressed, and best of all my period is only 1 day (I am not kidding). I am just crossing my fingers hoping that it will stop breaking me out so bad.
rootcanalqueen
05-20-2006, 11:52 PM
I also have PMDD and was given Loestrin 24 Fe to help ease the symptoms. I have an IUD, so I don't need it for birth control. The first two days, I took it in the morning and felt so nauseated and TIRED, so I switched to taking it at night. I have been on this pill for seven days now, and I feel like a totally different person....in a bad way. I have been experiencing severe irritability, isolation, social difficulties, tired, no ambition, depression. I literally want to be ALONE all the time. I can't get excited or happy about anything.....things that just a week ago, I would have. However, I'm not the most happy person in the world, but I only have bad days during PMS. My appetite has decreased, the only good thing I guess. I decided today to stop taking it. I just can't take it anymore. I'll have to figure another route to deal with my PMDD....I wanted to try this before going to an AD again. I'm 28 and tried taking the bcp in my early 20's and had the same experience. I didn't last two weeks....I couldn't handle the emotional distress it caused.
DKScully
05-22-2006, 11:23 AM
rootcanalqueen--
I'm sorry you had such a tough time! Yeah, that's basically how I was on Yasmin, it was bad. I wasn't that way on NuvaRing, after the first few weeks, anyway (I do think you need to give it a fair shot of a month or so, because a lot of people react badly to these meds, initially). It also may be that Lexapro is keeping me more "level" (though I still go down-hill during PMS time, it's not nearly as out-of-control as it was before I was on an anti-depressant). I still hope Loestrin 24 Fe is different from me, that it at least doesn't make me any MORE depressed and that maybe it'll make my periods lighter....
Someone mentioned that maybe the decrease in estrogen would help because my uterine lining might be too thick! Actually, when I got an ultrasound over the summer, my doctor told me that my lining was thin, and that's why I'd bleed a lot, and gave me extra estrogen to take for a while. Ack, I am so confused!
I'm sorry you had such a tough time! Yeah, that's basically how I was on Yasmin, it was bad. I wasn't that way on NuvaRing, after the first few weeks, anyway (I do think you need to give it a fair shot of a month or so, because a lot of people react badly to these meds, initially). It also may be that Lexapro is keeping me more "level" (though I still go down-hill during PMS time, it's not nearly as out-of-control as it was before I was on an anti-depressant). I still hope Loestrin 24 Fe is different from me, that it at least doesn't make me any MORE depressed and that maybe it'll make my periods lighter....
Someone mentioned that maybe the decrease in estrogen would help because my uterine lining might be too thick! Actually, when I got an ultrasound over the summer, my doctor told me that my lining was thin, and that's why I'd bleed a lot, and gave me extra estrogen to take for a while. Ack, I am so confused!
DKScully
06-05-2006, 04:07 PM
Update!
I started taking Loestrin 24 Fe just over a week ago--the Sunday after my period started, as recommended by my doctor. So far, no problems, and my period stopped right after I started it (usually, it would've gone on for about 4 more days... might've just been a coincidence, though!).
However, I am feeling dizzy today for no apparent reason. I don't know if it could be related. Is it possible that I would experience this side effect a whole week after starting it, or do you think it would be unrelated?
Thanks!
I started taking Loestrin 24 Fe just over a week ago--the Sunday after my period started, as recommended by my doctor. So far, no problems, and my period stopped right after I started it (usually, it would've gone on for about 4 more days... might've just been a coincidence, though!).
However, I am feeling dizzy today for no apparent reason. I don't know if it could be related. Is it possible that I would experience this side effect a whole week after starting it, or do you think it would be unrelated?
Thanks!
pillsearch
06-14-2006, 11:35 PM
I am also switching from Yasmin to Loestrin 24. I haven't started it yet though. On Yasmin I completely lost ALL of my sex drive and have become extremely depressed and anxious all the time...not myself at all. It was a gradual process though, so it took me while to realize what was happening to me. I am also hungry all the time, and gained a minimal amount of weight on Yasmin. I am naturally thin and have a fast metabolism so if I did not I am sure I would have gained a lot more weight! I am hoping that Loestrin 24 makes me fell more normal with the depression and sex drive. Please keep posting so I can hear about how it's going for you. It has been impossible to find first hand info about this pill online so far.
puckerpunch
06-15-2006, 11:02 AM
Does the Loestrin 24 make you have a change in your appitite? I was on Yasmin and am switching now to Loestrin 24. Yasmin made me feel like the cookie montser, and within a month i put on about 6 pounds. :0/
saige_27
06-16-2006, 01:35 PM
Hello all, Loestrin 24 Fe, sounds alot like Yaz. It is also used to treat PMDD and is 24/4 instead of 21/7. I have been on Yaz for a week now and except for the continued bleeding I am feeling great. Previously I was on Cryselle and I was moody, irritable, would start crying for no reason, had 0 sex drive and just generally felt lousy. After reading other posts I am wondering of Yaz is just not strong enough for me to control my cycles, but I will give it more time. I know you should try for at least 3 months, but I am not going to bleed for 3 solid months. Its got until the end of the package to stop that. If this doesn't work my obgyn wants me to try Nuevaring. I just don't see how that can be comfortable, then I was reading about the discharge that most are experiencing......She said it is just like using a tampon, I don't like using those either. I may ask about Loestrin 24 Fe. Before Cryselle I was on Junel Fe and I really liked it, but my pharmicist said he couldn't get it any more. I may check on that again or see of there is one very similar.
JulzQ1yeah
11-09-2006, 01:47 PM
I know this topic is old but I thought I'd weigh in.
I've tried quite a few different types of BC, all of which have failed me horribly. I was recently put on Loestrin Fe 24 and although I've only been on it for a month, I love it because it's given me back my sanity
I too was put on Yasmin years ago. It gave me such crazy mood swings, depression, and anxiety that I stopped taking it after 3 weeks. It was that bad! Then I was put on the patch which made my WHOLE body completely numb and tingly- horrible, horrible feeling! Then my doc prescribed me Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo, thinking maybe the lower hormones would do me better. Well, that gave me breakthrough bleeding for 3 months until I said ENOUGH! I can't be on something where I bleed half the month! So then I was prescribed regular Ortho Tri Cyclen to up the estrogen and get rid of that bleeding, but man, being on that pill was the worst 2 years of my life! It wasn't until about 2 months ago that I finally realized my crazy mood swings, extreme irritability, horrible breast tenderness, loss of sex drive, weight gain, and mild depression weren't from external causes. It was so gradual that it was hard to pinpoint it all being related to the pill, but it was!
Finally I called my sister who's a general practitioner and told her what was going on. She said most likely the tri-phasic pills (ie: 3 different levels of hormones per month such as Ortho TRI Cylen) were not right for me. Apparently Ortho Tri Cyclen is meant to mimic your natural fluctuating hormone levels. However most of the research done with birth control pills are with women 150 lbs and lighter, thus they are formulated to work best with that target weight of women. I didn't realize this but the more you weigh, the more estrogen you produce. Because I'm right around 170 lbs she said that the triphasic pills (the Ortho) was probably whacking out my estrogen levels because I naturally produce more estrogen each month. She said I needed to get on a monophasic pill and see how that treated me. So I went to a NEW doctor this time and told her all my horror stories of previous BC I was on. She recommended the Loestrin 24 Fe and I noticed within 4 days of being on it just how completely MESSED up I was on the Ortho. I felt completely content and 100% myself again being on the Loestrin. My sex drive immediately improved which was such a relief. It was to the point of where I wanted to jump around for joy every chance I got. I can't say enough good things about this pill! For me, it's worked wonders. Unfortunately my health insurance doesn't cover it but it doesn't matter- I'm willingly paying out of pocket because I finally found something that works!
I hope it treats you well! :) Good luck
I've tried quite a few different types of BC, all of which have failed me horribly. I was recently put on Loestrin Fe 24 and although I've only been on it for a month, I love it because it's given me back my sanity
I too was put on Yasmin years ago. It gave me such crazy mood swings, depression, and anxiety that I stopped taking it after 3 weeks. It was that bad! Then I was put on the patch which made my WHOLE body completely numb and tingly- horrible, horrible feeling! Then my doc prescribed me Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo, thinking maybe the lower hormones would do me better. Well, that gave me breakthrough bleeding for 3 months until I said ENOUGH! I can't be on something where I bleed half the month! So then I was prescribed regular Ortho Tri Cyclen to up the estrogen and get rid of that bleeding, but man, being on that pill was the worst 2 years of my life! It wasn't until about 2 months ago that I finally realized my crazy mood swings, extreme irritability, horrible breast tenderness, loss of sex drive, weight gain, and mild depression weren't from external causes. It was so gradual that it was hard to pinpoint it all being related to the pill, but it was!
Finally I called my sister who's a general practitioner and told her what was going on. She said most likely the tri-phasic pills (ie: 3 different levels of hormones per month such as Ortho TRI Cylen) were not right for me. Apparently Ortho Tri Cyclen is meant to mimic your natural fluctuating hormone levels. However most of the research done with birth control pills are with women 150 lbs and lighter, thus they are formulated to work best with that target weight of women. I didn't realize this but the more you weigh, the more estrogen you produce. Because I'm right around 170 lbs she said that the triphasic pills (the Ortho) was probably whacking out my estrogen levels because I naturally produce more estrogen each month. She said I needed to get on a monophasic pill and see how that treated me. So I went to a NEW doctor this time and told her all my horror stories of previous BC I was on. She recommended the Loestrin 24 Fe and I noticed within 4 days of being on it just how completely MESSED up I was on the Ortho. I felt completely content and 100% myself again being on the Loestrin. My sex drive immediately improved which was such a relief. It was to the point of where I wanted to jump around for joy every chance I got. I can't say enough good things about this pill! For me, it's worked wonders. Unfortunately my health insurance doesn't cover it but it doesn't matter- I'm willingly paying out of pocket because I finally found something that works!
I hope it treats you well! :) Good luck
DKScully
11-09-2006, 02:23 PM
Julz, I agree with you (almost) totally!
To update my situation for everyone, I've been on Loestrin 24 Fe for around five months now, and haven't suffered from any of the negative side effects I had with other pills.
My one concern, however, is the fact that I haven't had my period in approximately 70 days. Never thought I'd complain about that, but it does make me a bit nervous, since that hasn't happened to me on any other pills. If I don't get it this week, I'm calling my GYN.... but besides that, I've been pretty happy with it!
To update my situation for everyone, I've been on Loestrin 24 Fe for around five months now, and haven't suffered from any of the negative side effects I had with other pills.
My one concern, however, is the fact that I haven't had my period in approximately 70 days. Never thought I'd complain about that, but it does make me a bit nervous, since that hasn't happened to me on any other pills. If I don't get it this week, I'm calling my GYN.... but besides that, I've been pretty happy with it!
japennington
11-09-2006, 10:47 PM
DKScully
I just thought that I would chime in on periods and Loestrin 24 Fe (at least in my case). I am on bcp to try and keep my endo under control. The beginning of last year they dicontinued the pill I had been taking (who makes this decision anyway??:dizzy: )I have tried EVERYTHING since then! On most pills I bleed all month long to some degree and mood swings are awful! I started Loestrin in Aug and have not had a period since!!!:blob_fire I have spoken to my gyn and he did u/s and b/w to make sure everything was ok. He said some people don't have a period on this. He said I may have one every once in a while but if I do it shouldn't last more than a day. YIPEE!! Lots of words to tell such a short story!LOL! :) Just thought I would let you know that they also stopped my period.
Jessica
I just thought that I would chime in on periods and Loestrin 24 Fe (at least in my case). I am on bcp to try and keep my endo under control. The beginning of last year they dicontinued the pill I had been taking (who makes this decision anyway??:dizzy: )I have tried EVERYTHING since then! On most pills I bleed all month long to some degree and mood swings are awful! I started Loestrin in Aug and have not had a period since!!!:blob_fire I have spoken to my gyn and he did u/s and b/w to make sure everything was ok. He said some people don't have a period on this. He said I may have one every once in a while but if I do it shouldn't last more than a day. YIPEE!! Lots of words to tell such a short story!LOL! :) Just thought I would let you know that they also stopped my period.
Jessica
DKScully
11-10-2006, 09:34 AM
Wow, yeah, I used to bleed like two weeks a month or something crazy like that, and some types of birth control improved that SLIGHTLY, but gave me mood swings. My cycles, even on birth control, are usually 25 days or less, so it's been so strange not having a period for so long. And while I don't miss it, I'm not sure that can be healthy, though I'm glad your doctor seemed to think it wasn't worrisome...
DKScully
11-29-2006, 10:25 AM
I was on Yasmin, which I believe has basically the same make-up as Yaz. Yasmin made me anxious, depressed, no sex drive, etc. I haven't had these side effects on Loestrin, so there's a chance that it could be a big improvement for you, mekoolkat!
Legend74
11-29-2006, 10:42 AM
My one concern, however, is the fact that I haven't had my period in approximately 70 days. Never thought I'd complain about that, but it does make me a bit nervous, since that hasn't happened to me on any other pills!
Hi, not sure if you got an answer from your doc yet, but I wanted to let you know that majority of the women who take Loestrin24fe have reported not getting a period at all. I've read this on other women's health boards all over the internet that they are concerned about not having a period while on this pill. However, they all seem to be having this same "problem" (I don't really consider it a problem because I'd be happy to not have a period), so the general consensus is that it's normal to not get a period while on this pill.
I just wanted to let you know in case you were still worried.
Hi, not sure if you got an answer from your doc yet, but I wanted to let you know that majority of the women who take Loestrin24fe have reported not getting a period at all. I've read this on other women's health boards all over the internet that they are concerned about not having a period while on this pill. However, they all seem to be having this same "problem" (I don't really consider it a problem because I'd be happy to not have a period), so the general consensus is that it's normal to not get a period while on this pill.
I just wanted to let you know in case you were still worried.
DKScully
11-29-2006, 10:48 AM
Hi, not sure if you got an answer from your doc yet, but I wanted to let you know that majority of the women who take Loestrin24fe have reported not getting a period at all. I've read this on other women's health boards all over the internet that they are concerned about not having a period while on this pill. However, they all seem to be having this same "problem" (I don't really consider it a problem because I'd be happy to not have a period), so the general consensus is that it's normal to not get a period while on this pill.
I just wanted to let you know in case you were still worried.
Thanks, Legend. Yes, after 86 days, my period finally came (in the middle of the month... not when I was on the placebo pills). We'll see when I get it again! I know a lot of women seem to be having this problem, but I feel kind of uncomfortable about it... I didn't want to go on Seasonale because I felt it was unnatural to not have a period for months on end, and now it's happening to me on Loestrin! It's hard to complain about, because my periods were always awful, but it just makes me nervous!
I just wanted to let you know in case you were still worried.
Thanks, Legend. Yes, after 86 days, my period finally came (in the middle of the month... not when I was on the placebo pills). We'll see when I get it again! I know a lot of women seem to be having this problem, but I feel kind of uncomfortable about it... I didn't want to go on Seasonale because I felt it was unnatural to not have a period for months on end, and now it's happening to me on Loestrin! It's hard to complain about, because my periods were always awful, but it just makes me nervous!
mollie05
12-30-2006, 05:21 PM
I went to my gyno about 2 months ago because I had very irregular periods and was hoping that by taking the pill, it would make my periods more regular. She prescribed the Loestrin 24 Fe and I began taking it immediately. Within 3 days, I was experiencing the worst breast tenderness I had ever felt before. I hoped that after a while it would go away, but by the end of my first pack, I could barely take a shower because the water was so painful on my breasts. After that first pack, I had to quit taking it. Now I don't know if I would react the same way to other brands of BC since the Loestrin 24 was the first BC pill I had ever taken, but all I know is that there is no way in hell I would ever take that pill again after experiencing that amount of pain.
belfiore83
01-02-2007, 02:19 AM
Hello everyone-
I started loestrin 24 a little over two wks ago, started sunday after my period, and ive had breakthrough bleeding/spotting for abour 6 days now (which began about a week/a week and a half in). Has anyone else experienced spotting while taking this pill, especially initially? I am not too concerned bc Ive read that this can happen during the first few cycles, but I am curious to hear from any of you about your experiences. I mean its kind of a pain to have to be prepared to be bleeding all the time.... once a month is annoying as it is!! haha. Please respond if youve had a similar experience. Is this pretty typical/when should I be concerned and contact my doctor? Thanks (and happy new year).
I started loestrin 24 a little over two wks ago, started sunday after my period, and ive had breakthrough bleeding/spotting for abour 6 days now (which began about a week/a week and a half in). Has anyone else experienced spotting while taking this pill, especially initially? I am not too concerned bc Ive read that this can happen during the first few cycles, but I am curious to hear from any of you about your experiences. I mean its kind of a pain to have to be prepared to be bleeding all the time.... once a month is annoying as it is!! haha. Please respond if youve had a similar experience. Is this pretty typical/when should I be concerned and contact my doctor? Thanks (and happy new year).
belfiore83
01-02-2007, 03:42 PM
I just spoke with a woman at my ob gyn office and she said that break through bleeding is not abnormal during the first three cycles. I asked, even if it is continuous throughout the whole three mths (bc im getting it everyday)? and she said yes, which sounds crazy to me but oh well. she said after the first three cycles, if the spotting continues, I may have to switch to a higher dose pill. (She also suggested using a back up form of BC for two mths being that this is my first time takiing the pill.) Is this the same type of info that any of you have received?
pants2008
01-03-2007, 03:23 PM
hi there, i'm about 2 weeks into taking Loestrin and i've definitely noticed that my breasts have gotten rather plump... which isn't a problem for me (being a size A) anyway, unfortunately, i've noticed frequent dark purple patches on my cheeks and acne popping up on my face... is this happening with anyone? and does anyone know if Loestrin also controls breakouts? :rolleyes:
pebbles523
01-05-2007, 01:14 PM
I have been off the pill for a year now, and but I was on Yasmin, aka, the worst pill ever! I had violent mood swings, and did not feel like myself. I do admit there was no weight gain though, maybe the only plus...but a week ago I started on Loestrin 24 to help reduce cramping, and I have been spotting since day 2 of the pill. I have no cramping, and I know you can spot for up to 3 cycles, but I am just concerned about weight gain, I know that's extremly vain and selfish, but I was wondering if anyone has experienced any gain. Other than that, I do feel my moods have stabilzed and have become less tempermental, thank goodness, and I'm sure my boyfriend is thrilled ;) I'm so glad I found this site, I was so nervous to take it, keep me posted yall, as I will do the same. Take care :D
militarywife
01-06-2007, 10:57 AM
I am new and have researched a lot of info pertaining to Loestrin 24 and can't find someone else with my problem. I am in the 3rd month of Loestrin 24 and my issue is that I have breakthrough bleeding. I am a regular excerciser and I take my pill the exact time every single day! I can't figure out why I have the bleeding. Otherwise, I have had no problems w/ this pill. It hasn't given me any trouble and has made my periods shorter when I am taking brown pills. Any others with this problem and do you know the answer?
belfiore83
01-08-2007, 02:36 PM
militarywife- I had actually just posted about spotting. I spotted from the second week through the rest of the month. Finally have a break now, though Im about to start my period. yay. (sarcasm). I was told its not abnormal thruout the first three cycles. After that, talk to you doctor, bc it should not continue that way.
Now my problem is ocular migraines! I havent had these for like 10 yrs. They are herendous. Your sight is obstructed by this sparkly thing that moves around, goes away fairly quick, and then you have the worst migraine imaginable. My sister is on another pill and has had three of these migraines during her first three cycles as well. Anyone else have headache/migraine/ocular migraine issues???
Now my problem is ocular migraines! I havent had these for like 10 yrs. They are herendous. Your sight is obstructed by this sparkly thing that moves around, goes away fairly quick, and then you have the worst migraine imaginable. My sister is on another pill and has had three of these migraines during her first three cycles as well. Anyone else have headache/migraine/ocular migraine issues???
CatntheHat
01-23-2007, 02:30 PM
Okay, I started Loestrin 24 fe about four months ago and no periods for me. It is disturbing because I keep taking pregnancy tests (which are thankfully negative) but it is still annoying. I talked to my gyn who said that I should give it about five months to regulate and then see how I like it and that a lot of women do not have a period while taking it. Now, I just feel crampy every day. It sucked when I first started taking it because I had a good three months of dizziness and nausea to the point where I could not be a passenger in any car, but that has passed now. I too had a period about two weeks into the first pack and that was the last time I saw my period. I started taking this one because I was previously on Yasmin and it caused me to have spotting all the time.
I too get the ocular aura but not the migraine. I just get the sparkly thing in my line of vision that moves from the middle to the outer edges of my vision within about 20 minutes. Then, I just feel tired and a bit achy like my sinues are aching. I just had one of these a couple of weeks ago and hadn't had one in a year previously.
I too get the ocular aura but not the migraine. I just get the sparkly thing in my line of vision that moves from the middle to the outer edges of my vision within about 20 minutes. Then, I just feel tired and a bit achy like my sinues are aching. I just had one of these a couple of weeks ago and hadn't had one in a year previously.
DKScully
01-23-2007, 03:17 PM
Okay, I started Loestrin 24 fe about four months ago and no periods for me. It is disturbing because I keep taking pregnancy tests (which are thankfully negative) but it is still annoying. I talked to my gyn who said that I should give it about five months to regulate and then see how I like it and that a lot of women do not have a period while taking it. Now, I just feel crampy every day. It sucked when I first started taking it because I had a good three months of dizziness and nausea to the point where I could not be a passenger in any car, but that has passed now. I too had a period about two weeks into the first pack and that was the last time I saw my period. I started taking this one because I was previously on Yasmin and it caused me to have spotting all the time.
I too get the ocular aura but not the migraine. I just get the sparkly thing in my line of vision that moves from the middle to the outer edges of my vision within about 20 minutes. Then, I just feel tired and a bit achy like my sinues are aching. I just had one of these a couple of weeks ago and hadn't had one in a year previously.
Yeah, the lack of period thing is worrisome, though I guess it's "normal" on this pill. I get spotting most months, but have only had maybe three full-out periods since I started it about eight months ago. Overall, I like Loestrin better than any other birth control pill I've tried (Yasmin was the WORST), but it's... weird.
I too get the ocular aura but not the migraine. I just get the sparkly thing in my line of vision that moves from the middle to the outer edges of my vision within about 20 minutes. Then, I just feel tired and a bit achy like my sinues are aching. I just had one of these a couple of weeks ago and hadn't had one in a year previously.
Yeah, the lack of period thing is worrisome, though I guess it's "normal" on this pill. I get spotting most months, but have only had maybe three full-out periods since I started it about eight months ago. Overall, I like Loestrin better than any other birth control pill I've tried (Yasmin was the WORST), but it's... weird.
Kerbear7373
01-23-2007, 03:49 PM
Hi all...
I'm so glad I found this post. I started on Yasmin a little over a year ago and was pretty shocked to find how much my sex drive dropped (I hadn't done a lot of BC research then). I told my doctor and she switched me to Loestrin 24 Fe. Honestly, while my overall mood seems to have improved, my sex drive is still pretty non-existent. I'm 26 and will be getting married this year. I would really like to enjoy my honeymoon. Does anyone know of a pill that doesn't eliminate your sex drive? I would appreciate ANY advice. I mean, I guess a birth control pill is doing its job if you never have sex...but I would rather that not be the case. :)
I'm so glad I found this post. I started on Yasmin a little over a year ago and was pretty shocked to find how much my sex drive dropped (I hadn't done a lot of BC research then). I told my doctor and she switched me to Loestrin 24 Fe. Honestly, while my overall mood seems to have improved, my sex drive is still pretty non-existent. I'm 26 and will be getting married this year. I would really like to enjoy my honeymoon. Does anyone know of a pill that doesn't eliminate your sex drive? I would appreciate ANY advice. I mean, I guess a birth control pill is doing its job if you never have sex...but I would rather that not be the case. :)
CatntheHat
01-23-2007, 04:55 PM
How long have you been taking Loestrin, Kerbear? Maybe you need some time for your body to adjust? I was previously on Yasmin and I had a diminished sex drive. Quite possibly, the Yasmin had diminished my sex drive and I just attributed it to my being fulfilled in other ways by my relationship. Now that I have been on Loestrin for about four months, my libido seems to be increasing back to normal levels.
I just would like to have a period at some point. I just feel like I am super bloated and cramping like I should start in a week or so but I have two weeks at least before I start my placebo pills. Hopefully it will all even out.
I just would like to have a period at some point. I just feel like I am super bloated and cramping like I should start in a week or so but I have two weeks at least before I start my placebo pills. Hopefully it will all even out.
belfiore83
01-24-2007, 09:16 PM
well, not glad it happened, but glad to hear that im not the only one with ocular aura/migraine issues. I have tried to disregard it but also having libido issues as well. Glad to hear it evens out for some ppl. Hope all these crappy symptoms even out in the next month or so! Im retaining so much water, I cant keep up with drinking enough to flush my system! What a pain.
CatntheHat
01-25-2007, 01:04 PM
Bel, Yes, the ocular thing is strange. My father and aunt get it as well.
As for the water retention, YES! I feel your pain. I am trying to flush out my system by drinking enough water but it sure isn't working! I am mega bloated and I hate it. However, I just discovered that my lovely pharmacist gave me the wrong BC this month, of which I have already taken a week and a half. I can't believe I didn't notice this earlier but the packaging is very similar, just a difference in the number of active pills on the fourth week. No wonder I have had strange cramping every day and mega-bloat! It is still Loestrin, but Loestrin fe 1.5/30. I just want to be normal again, but I am considering staying with the 1.5/30 just for the sake of having a period. I can't handle the no period thing - too stressful!
As for the water retention, YES! I feel your pain. I am trying to flush out my system by drinking enough water but it sure isn't working! I am mega bloated and I hate it. However, I just discovered that my lovely pharmacist gave me the wrong BC this month, of which I have already taken a week and a half. I can't believe I didn't notice this earlier but the packaging is very similar, just a difference in the number of active pills on the fourth week. No wonder I have had strange cramping every day and mega-bloat! It is still Loestrin, but Loestrin fe 1.5/30. I just want to be normal again, but I am considering staying with the 1.5/30 just for the sake of having a period. I can't handle the no period thing - too stressful!
Kerbear7373
01-26-2007, 12:01 PM
Cat, I am finishing up my 5th month on the Loestrin 24 Fe. I assumed any adjustments my body needed to make would have been made by now. Still no libido. I guess I just have to come to terms with the fact that there is no perfect birth control method, at least with me. Something always has to be sacrificed in order to gain a benefit.
:confused:
:confused:
belfiore83
01-26-2007, 08:31 PM
Cat, what a pain in the butt! Good thing you realized. Hope its all straightened out for you and that you and I both get a break with this bloating. All these side effects are constantly freaking me out into thinking Im pregnant! That would be the main issue of not getting your period on loest, it would make me so paranoid.
Im dealing with a new issue tonight, yay! Im around the end of my second week of my second mth and I have cramps and reaaaaly light pink spotting (not the old/brown blood). This happened the same way during my first mth.
Why the heck does the pill have to affect sex drive?!?
Im dealing with a new issue tonight, yay! Im around the end of my second week of my second mth and I have cramps and reaaaaly light pink spotting (not the old/brown blood). This happened the same way during my first mth.
Why the heck does the pill have to affect sex drive?!?
Funnies
01-26-2007, 09:34 PM
I've been taking Loestrin for almost 3 months. The first pack I got my period normally. It was shorter like the pills promised. This last time I didnt get my period at all. I started exercising every day so I'm assuming this has something to do with it. And I'm sure my body is still adjusting. Has anyone skipped a period even while taking the placebo pills?
DKScully
01-26-2007, 09:45 PM
I've been taking Loestrin for almost 3 months. The first pack I got my period normally. It was shorter like the pills promised. This last time I didnt get my period at all. I started exercising every day so I'm assuming this has something to do with it. And I'm sure my body is still adjusting. Has anyone skipped a period even while taking the placebo pills?
Yup! After my first period on Loestrin, I didn't have another one for 80 days! And since then, I've only had little light, spotting-like periods. And from what I've heard, this isn't strange at all, even though it makes me nervous....
Yup! After my first period on Loestrin, I didn't have another one for 80 days! And since then, I've only had little light, spotting-like periods. And from what I've heard, this isn't strange at all, even though it makes me nervous....
durzia
02-10-2007, 03:44 AM
Yup! After my first period on Loestrin, I didn't have another one for 80 days! And since then, I've only had little light, spotting-like periods. And from what I've heard, this isn't strange at all, even though it makes me nervous....
I'm so glad I found this board! I started Loestrin24 last June, I had a couple periods, then had to go in for a laparotomy to remove a large ovarian cyst in September, had one more regular period in October, then pretty much nothing after that! I thought it was because I was sick and on lots of vitamins and sinus medication during the time I was supposed to have my period in November, then I was sick around the same time in December so I wrote that off too as my body being on too many vitamins and supplements. But last month I had nothing again! I actually shouldn't say "nothing," i had about an hour of very light spotting in November and December, during the time my period should have come.
Finally, I called my ob/gyn and she told me that its a common side effect with this pill. She said its totally normal but if it freaks me out that she would change my pill for me, but that most people are happy and choose to stay on it. With that said, I told her I was very happy with the pill (finally no other bad side effects for once!) and am going to stay on it. Hope this info helps anyone who may have had a similar experience!
I'm so glad I found this board! I started Loestrin24 last June, I had a couple periods, then had to go in for a laparotomy to remove a large ovarian cyst in September, had one more regular period in October, then pretty much nothing after that! I thought it was because I was sick and on lots of vitamins and sinus medication during the time I was supposed to have my period in November, then I was sick around the same time in December so I wrote that off too as my body being on too many vitamins and supplements. But last month I had nothing again! I actually shouldn't say "nothing," i had about an hour of very light spotting in November and December, during the time my period should have come.
Finally, I called my ob/gyn and she told me that its a common side effect with this pill. She said its totally normal but if it freaks me out that she would change my pill for me, but that most people are happy and choose to stay on it. With that said, I told her I was very happy with the pill (finally no other bad side effects for once!) and am going to stay on it. Hope this info helps anyone who may have had a similar experience!
davidsgirl
03-06-2007, 08:49 PM
I know this is an old thread, but I am SO glad I found it! I haven't had a period in several months and I get ocular migraines (had one today!). I was starting to really worry, but I'm feeling much better now! Thanks everyone!:)
Jenteal
03-08-2007, 11:17 AM
I had been on Desogen for about 13 years. I was on Mircette, Ovcon 35, Apri and Aleese somewhere in between all those years but I still had migraines. I am 38yr. I went for my anual 5 months ago and for the first time he asked me the reason for taking all the medications that I do. I told him that I have severe migrains that would last for days a coulple times a month. He said it might be from my birth control. He switched me to Loestrin FE24. First month I was great not one migraine and period normal. The 2nd month same thing but I gained a good amount of weight. 3rd month period again normal no migraines but more weight gain and VERY tired all the time. I had gained 15 lbs. I went back to him and told him that the pills were making me fat.
I was told that 5lbs gain was normal but no never heard of anyone gaining 15 ppunds from BC. He told me that I was eating to much and I needed keep a chart of what I ate and bring it to him at my next appointmet.
I do the stair master and treadmill 4-5 days a week and hour on each. That is 900cal I burn. I have a notebook that I have been keeping track of the food I eat. I eat 900-1000 cal a day. On the weekends I eat what my body craves but nothing crazy.
The 4th month I had no period at all. I took 3 pregnancy tests and all were negative. I had my blood checked, my thyroid checked and they all came back normal. I have gone from a size 4 to an 8 in 4 1/2 months. I'll take the migraines over being fat. An 8 is not fat but it is to me cause all my weight has been put on in my mid section.
I just feel icky.
This is my 5 month and no period again. Still very tired I've gone form 140lbs to 165lbs. I'm making an apppointment to have him switch me back. This just sucks.
Jenteal
I was told that 5lbs gain was normal but no never heard of anyone gaining 15 ppunds from BC. He told me that I was eating to much and I needed keep a chart of what I ate and bring it to him at my next appointmet.
I do the stair master and treadmill 4-5 days a week and hour on each. That is 900cal I burn. I have a notebook that I have been keeping track of the food I eat. I eat 900-1000 cal a day. On the weekends I eat what my body craves but nothing crazy.
The 4th month I had no period at all. I took 3 pregnancy tests and all were negative. I had my blood checked, my thyroid checked and they all came back normal. I have gone from a size 4 to an 8 in 4 1/2 months. I'll take the migraines over being fat. An 8 is not fat but it is to me cause all my weight has been put on in my mid section.
I just feel icky.
This is my 5 month and no period again. Still very tired I've gone form 140lbs to 165lbs. I'm making an apppointment to have him switch me back. This just sucks.
Jenteal
Jdesmondiva
03-08-2007, 08:01 PM
Hello Everyone! I started taking loestrin 24 fe two days ago (started first day of period) and I thought it would be a good idea to join this convo, and update occasionally with my experience, to see if it relates to yours. I have not been on any form of BC for about 8 years, and I'm worried I'll gain weight, break out, have mood swings, feel nautious, have migrains, and all that fun stuff :dizzy: . So far, just the regular period bloating, cramps and moodiness. So, we shall see!!
Good luck girls, and thank you for starting such a great and informative convo! I wish the best for all of you.
Good luck girls, and thank you for starting such a great and informative convo! I wish the best for all of you.
Jenteal
03-08-2007, 08:51 PM
Loestrin FE 24 gave me no mood swings. I am actually nice now. My migraines have stopped, sex drive fine too and periods have stopped now for 2 months plus not one cramp either. I was a bit sick to my stomach for the first month but nothing horrible.
The only huge change is the 22 pounds of weight that I gained and am having the HARDEST time trying to get if off.
Jenteal
The only huge change is the 22 pounds of weight that I gained and am having the HARDEST time trying to get if off.
Jenteal
CUCrusaders24
03-13-2007, 10:45 PM
I am about to start my third pack of Loestrin 24-Fe. I am 23 and this is the first time I have ever taken any kind of BC so I (and my OB/GYN) did not know how my body would react. I noticed headaches and dizziness only the first week of taking it but those have gone away. I have no cramps, and I only had SLIGHT bleeding after the second week of the first pack, so they kicked in fast for me. I have lost nearly 20 pounds with diet and exercise change, but I still get the occasional couple of pimples here (my OB/GYN had stated birth control sometimes helps with acne). Anyway, I also began taking BC in order to begin regulating my periods because they had stopped when I put quite a bit of weight on. Now, I'm on BC which is known to decrease (or lessen length of) periods for women, so its kind of funny. I'm losing weight slowly, but still no period. So that is my experience so far with Loestrin-24 Fe. Overall, I am pretty satisfied with it: no mood swings/depression, and sex drive hasn't decreased. Take Care! :wave:
trackerbar
03-15-2007, 05:54 PM
Howdy, Folks -
I just found this thread, and it's been helpful - as I just started taking Loestrin 24 FE today. At 33, this is the first time I have ever taken a chemical birth control, and yup... I'm full of curiosity.
I have done a bit of reading on this medication, and am following my doc's suggestions to a t. My only question here, however, has to do with weight gain - mostly out of health concerns. Those of you who have had this symptom... is this because of an increase in appetite, or do you simply find yourself weighing in at more? Very interesting in knowing - I'd like to know if I need to listen more keenly to what my body/appetite is trying to tell/demand of me!
Many thanks - Tracker:)
I just found this thread, and it's been helpful - as I just started taking Loestrin 24 FE today. At 33, this is the first time I have ever taken a chemical birth control, and yup... I'm full of curiosity.
I have done a bit of reading on this medication, and am following my doc's suggestions to a t. My only question here, however, has to do with weight gain - mostly out of health concerns. Those of you who have had this symptom... is this because of an increase in appetite, or do you simply find yourself weighing in at more? Very interesting in knowing - I'd like to know if I need to listen more keenly to what my body/appetite is trying to tell/demand of me!
Many thanks - Tracker:)
Teacher_Lady
03-18-2007, 02:36 PM
Just finished my first pack of Leostrin 24 Fe. Before this I took Ortho Tri Cyclen, then, Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo, next Yasmin (painful).
Well everytime I've started a new pill I would at least start my period 2 or 3 days before I finished the first pack. However, I don't have my period right now and I just finished the first pack. I took a EPT test yesterday (negative).
After reading all these replies, it seems normal to not have one. BUT GESH! :mad: I don't like this idea. I'm a big worry wart. I have a strong Christian family that would flip if I got P, before marriage (getting married summer 2008). So I'm real anxietic about not having my period. I may just have to go back to the gyno and get another pill. With my personality, I can't handle no reassurance at the end of a pack. Most of the time my fiance' uses a condom, but once every couple of months we may not and he withdrawls before. But now that I'm taking this weird pill, no more without!
This also scares me because I have a friend who has some medical problem I can't think of the name right now that is caused from her not having a period for a long time. Like the eggs and everything have "backed up" in a sense. And she has gained a lot of weight as a result. It's a very scary time for her right now. So this makes me scared that if I don't have periods that this may happen to me, too.
Anyway else as paranoid as me? :confused:
Well everytime I've started a new pill I would at least start my period 2 or 3 days before I finished the first pack. However, I don't have my period right now and I just finished the first pack. I took a EPT test yesterday (negative).
After reading all these replies, it seems normal to not have one. BUT GESH! :mad: I don't like this idea. I'm a big worry wart. I have a strong Christian family that would flip if I got P, before marriage (getting married summer 2008). So I'm real anxietic about not having my period. I may just have to go back to the gyno and get another pill. With my personality, I can't handle no reassurance at the end of a pack. Most of the time my fiance' uses a condom, but once every couple of months we may not and he withdrawls before. But now that I'm taking this weird pill, no more without!
This also scares me because I have a friend who has some medical problem I can't think of the name right now that is caused from her not having a period for a long time. Like the eggs and everything have "backed up" in a sense. And she has gained a lot of weight as a result. It's a very scary time for her right now. So this makes me scared that if I don't have periods that this may happen to me, too.
Anyway else as paranoid as me? :confused:
marietsy
03-19-2007, 10:39 PM
Hello! I am glad to find this site. My doctor just gave me Loestrin 24 to take after my next period in two weeks. I have endo and PCOS and I need to suppress the growth of the cysts.
Its been years since I last took birth control for my endo. I know that it took several tries for my last birth control to work for me without the side effects of crankiness, depression, weight gain and headaches. I'm hoping that this pill will work for me and that I don't have a lot of side effects. I'm not overly worried about the lack of period, actually sounds kind of nice, but its the weight gain, the depression and the headaches that I worry about.
I'll let ya know how it works for me. I'll try it for three months and if I'm mostly symptom free, I will be very very happy.
Marietsy:blob_fire
Its been years since I last took birth control for my endo. I know that it took several tries for my last birth control to work for me without the side effects of crankiness, depression, weight gain and headaches. I'm hoping that this pill will work for me and that I don't have a lot of side effects. I'm not overly worried about the lack of period, actually sounds kind of nice, but its the weight gain, the depression and the headaches that I worry about.
I'll let ya know how it works for me. I'll try it for three months and if I'm mostly symptom free, I will be very very happy.
Marietsy:blob_fire
suzy000
03-20-2007, 09:20 AM
loestrin 24 fe is the worst bcp i have ever taken. after two months i became so depressed that i didnt want to get out of bed, i cry all the time, my bf is worried about me, i was about to go on anti depressants...WORST THINGS EVER. i also have a problem when it comes to eating and i do really well when im happy. on this birth control i just stopped eating and i am now underweight by a lot. im switching to yaz in two days. i cant wait! sorry if i scared you but i wouldnt recommend this bcp to anyone. i also cant sleep well and i get mad/ mean about anything and everything
Jenteal
03-20-2007, 05:49 PM
This is my 5 month on Loeestrin 24FE and even though I felt like crap the first few months and I gianed 22 lbs I am seeing a great decrease in the weight now.
I suppose my body is finally getting accustomed to it. I'm only into my 2nd week on my 5 month of pills so I don't know how I will react when it's time for my period....If I get one again.
I am glad that I held out for another month it saved me from freaking my body out again from switching out to another pill. I know the other "WILL" cause me migraines so far on this one I only had one headache that was sorta a migraine but never fully developed. The few months without the pains in my head have been really nice.
I hope I didn't just jinx myself and the weight keeps dropping off.
Jenteal
I suppose my body is finally getting accustomed to it. I'm only into my 2nd week on my 5 month of pills so I don't know how I will react when it's time for my period....If I get one again.
I am glad that I held out for another month it saved me from freaking my body out again from switching out to another pill. I know the other "WILL" cause me migraines so far on this one I only had one headache that was sorta a migraine but never fully developed. The few months without the pains in my head have been really nice.
I hope I didn't just jinx myself and the weight keeps dropping off.
Jenteal