Expert: Diane Cheryl - 1/9/2007

Question
Hi Diane,
I started taking Yasmin 28 in September to change my cycle around so I didn't get it on my honeymoon in November, I had a few side affects while I was on them, mainly a decrease of libido.
But I stopped taking them after my third packet... and got a withdrawal bleed 4 days after my period.  Then a normal period after 26 days.  which didn't seem to bad?  Since then thought I have experienced alot of back and hip pain sore breasts, head aches constant cramping ( I didn't really suffer from period pain before) But the main thing really affecting me is the bloating. I seem to have put on 3 kg in the last 8 weeks... I look like I am at least 4-6 mths pregnant and very uncomfortable in anything I wear. I need to urinate all the time especially during the night...
Can you please tell me if this is normal.  I have been told that your body is adjusting to regulate hormones.. But do all the side affects eventually go away.. How long do they normally last for... is it fluid retention I am holding (I always feel hungry and keep asking my husband why i crane sweet things all the time).  Will the bloatedness go away and the weight gain I feel.

Answer
Hi Renee,
Thanks for your question. I am not a medical professional so I urge you to check with your physician. I don't recommend the pill or any hormonal birth control method. Just because of the huge problem of side effects and risks. I don't believe it is healthy for your body to take the natural cycle away. I can't really tell you if these effects will go away or not. Are you sure you're not pregnant? If needing a pregnancy test, go to http://www.optionline.org
I would recommend you checking out other forms of birth control. Write me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com
Diane Cheryl