Really unpleasant side effects on Yasmin?

Question

Right now I'm on the birth control Yasmin and have been since June. At the beginning I had kind of nasty flu-like symptoms and no appetite. Since then I've gotten used to them but the main problems I've noticed are severe mood swings and depression, headache and tiredness. I am not pregnant. Also my period has not gotten any less painful or lighter.

I am on the birth control as a form of contraceptive. I'm really beginning to hate these symptoms, and so is my husband. I'm also on antidepressants and at first I thought they were not working but now I'm thinking it's the birth control causing the problem.

What should I do in the meantime?

Answer 1

Sorry to hear you have had an unpleasant experience with Yasmin.  Shame you haven't experienced any positives while on it.  As a general rule, all drugs have side effects.

Some of my friends have had dramas with Yasmin, too, such as high blood pressure.

Yasmin isn't for all women (the success of any pill depends very much on the individual) and there are alternatives.  I would discuss your concerns with your doctor as soon as possible.  I wouldn't cease taking the medication till you talk to your doctor.  (If you aren't already, I would see the same doctor for both concerns - including depression - for the sake of continuity.)

You are in a good position to get appropriate advice as you have acknowledged the situation.  I hope things pick up for you.

Answer 2

I had a similar problem with Yaz.  If I missed a day and had to take 2, it made me really nauseous.  After taking it for a few weeks, I realized the pill was also making me really angry all the time.  Once I stopped taking it and switched to a different pill I was fine.  

Even if it's not time for your regular visit, try making a doctors appt and tell them what's been going on and they should switch you to a new pill.  You might even be able to call them and have a perscription sent to your pharmacy and not even have to go in.