Expert: Diane Cheryl - 5/19/2008

Question
i completed an entire month on ortho tri-cyclin and started a second pack.  within 3 days of starting my second month's pack i realized it induced severe mood swings and was causing more acne irritation than ever before.  in a fit of realization and mild panic i decided to cease taking the pill.  
my period came within several days and i realized it may have been advisable to finish the pack so i skipped the rest of the white pills(i presume the strongest) and continued on with the pack.  my period ceased.  after several days of being back on it i once again ceased the cycle.  inevitably i have my period again.  
my concern is whether or not i should finish the pack now, or have i already wrecked too much havoc on my body?  my period always makes my acne out of control to a greater extent and i just want to find a way to get my hormones down as quickly and safely as possible.  thank you so much.

Answer
Did you get the below email from 5/23? Please let me know if I can still help.

Hi Alice,

Thanks for your question. I would advise to stop using the pills at this point. But please consult with your own physician since I am not a medical doctor. The hormones from the pills being taken off and on are making your body cycle irregular. I'm glad you realized the side effects from the pill soon. What are you planning to do for birth control or are you in a place in your life where you could practice abstinence? You may email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com if you want to talk more.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl