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7/23/10 |
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i was on this pill for 5 years and it gave me horrible depression/anxiety/ weight gain/ nausea...loss of interest in sex/ awful migraines/hair loss. pretty much, i totally forgot who i was before i started taking it. i felt like a zombie. constantly tired and walking around in a haze. when i stopped, everything was back to normal and i remembered what it felt like to be happy. the problem is, im in a new serious relationship and want to try the pill againl, but a different one. has anyone also taken loestrin 24 and noticed less side effects? |
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7/19/10 |
5 |
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This is the first pill I've been on. I read several reviews, and it seemed that there have been many mixed results. For me, however, this pill is MAGIC. I used to get cramps so bad I couldn't leave my bed. Now, I have almost no cramps (I get them for maybe an hour the first day of my cycle). My period is also MUCH shorter; it doesn't start until 3 days after I start the 4th week. My skin broke out briefly when I first went on it, but now my skin has completely cleared up and is better than it's been in a few years. I've had NO WEIGHT GAIN, but my sex drive has gone up a bit. Overall, that's not that bad for side effects though... It's helpful to put an alarm in your phone to remind you to take it if you're a forgetful person. I highly recommend this to anyone wanting pain relief. |
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7/9/10 |
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I have been on this BC since I was 13, I am 17 now. I had gotten my period a full week before i normally get it and it wasnt a normal period it was really heavy like it would never end. It has slowed down drastically in the past few days (almost at the 2 week period mark) and i only have some bleeding left (the dark brownish color) at the end of a period. I was wondering if anyone can relate to this or help me figure out what i should be doing like switching birth control or what. Will be less protected next month? will i get the same 2 week period early again? Im honestly very confused. Help! - jadekovach@hotmail.com |
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6/15/10 |
5 |
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This BC has been the best for me so far. The cramps, etc are not terrible anymore and I can live a normal life style(not missing school/work/etc). Before I went on this I would always be sick, but I noticed a HUGE difference being on Ortho. do NOT go on the GENERIC brand though because I did that for amount 5 months because it was cheaper and I got so sick from it and it was terrible! As soon as I went back on Ortho I noticed a change right away. It is expensive though if you dont have insurance but for me, it is defiantly worth it! |
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6/11/10 |
5 |
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I don't know why there are so many people on here saying this BC has effected them so badly. I started Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo two years ago and everything has gone fine. I haven't gained weight or been depressed because of it and I haven't gotten pregnant! lol I take it at midnight because I usually go to bed around that time and I have an alarm on my phone that goes off to remind me. I thought it would be better to take at night because I am so busy during the day and I always wake up at different times in the morning. I am 22 years old, 5'4" at 135lb and fairly healthy. It's worked really well and its not super expensive. You can get it for free at the clinic :) |
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6/5/10 |
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Caused early heavy bleeding for over a week with no signs of slowing down |
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5/28/10 |
5 |
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I have been taking this BC for about 3 years. About 1 year ago I experienced a severely decreased sex drive, and I just thought it was because of changes in my life. About 3 months ago, I came down with depression like symptoms, severe headaches, double vision, painful sex. Went to my doc to be tested for infections and diseases, nothing. Diagnosed me with clinical depression, now reading all of this, I am going to stop taking BC. I would rather have heavier periods than go through all this. |
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5/20/10 |
3 |
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4 |
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I'm not sure about how effective this is. But I've been on it for a week and I've had the worst side effects. I've felt very depressed since I started taking it and every 4 hours or so I get really nauseas and feel like throwing up. I've also become very tired all the time. I'm usually not tired until about 11. But since I started taking this I've been falling asleep during whatever I'm doing at about 9. I've also had very very low self esteem lately, I am not positive this is related but it might be. |
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4/12/10 |
4 |
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ive only been on otcl for a month n this month got all messed up bc insurance did not want to cover it so i payed 60 dollors and restarted it this month but when i took it last month i was drinking and i ended up cutting my arm worse then ever for the 1st time in three years it was down to the muscle. i just had a baby about 2 months ago and i have a daughter who was 2. now i cant really say it was bc i was drinking or the pills because i was pregnant it seems like for almost 2 years so i wasnt drinking. i will see my doc in a few days and i will have him switch it to the reg otc bc my insurance will only cover that and im thinking about getting the iud marina<sp? good luck everyone from all the reviews otcl does not seem like a good idea.. |
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4/8/10 |
5 |
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I'm 5'4" 116 pounds with no health problems. I've been taking this for 3 months and so far so good. My skin looks a little better, but I rarely have pimples anyway. I've gained 2 pounds, but that could be due to me eating a little too much (lol). Periods are definitely lighter and shorter. The only inconvenience I've discovered is having to remember to take it everyday, at the same time (it's harder than it seems!)I think the rating might be skewed by the fact that most people don't write reviews unless they've had a terrible experience. As for me, it's working exactly like it's supposed to with a few pluses to boot! |
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4/7/10 |
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23 white, 5'3" 108lbs. I thought i was crazy until reading these. Needed to find a cheaper pill, bc after 3 years of Ortho tri cyclen lo its too expensive. Past year has been terrible. I hate the world. I feel trapped in my own body. I am irritated by everything. I wanna cry about everything and anything. My b/f of almost 2 years says im not the girl he fell in love with. Irritable, moody, depressed, self loathing, find problems with everything, always crying. These symptoms have gotten progressively worse. vaginal pain like i had rough sex, dry down there and nevvvver used to be. I dont know who i am anymore. After reading these i feel so comforted in knowing this isnt me, and im switching immediately. Helped minimally w my mild acne, caused severe breast tenderness. Extreme anxiety, and nervousness... my mother says ive changed too, but shes blaming my bf and i know its not him bc he says the same things she does. Literally emotinally unstable. I feel bipolar. excited to switch! |
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4/2/10 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
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this is my first cycle of ortho lo .. i switched over from yaz, which made me feel TERRIBLE. i read too many horrible reviews of ortho lo and was terrified to take it .. the only side effect i've had was nausea on the first day i took it .. i realized that if i eat something small before i take my pill i'm fine. i've been getting pretty bad headaches lately and i'm not sure if it has to do with the pill or not but other than that i haven't experienced any side effects. no spotting, no depression, no anxiety. so far so good :) |
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3/17/10 |
3 |
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5 |
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I can't speak to the pill's effectiveness, but I can speak to the side effects. I was on this pill for two weeks and all of a sudden started feeling a little depressed. I didn't think alot of it, but the next day, the anxiety started. I felt like I had a knot in my chest and just felt nuts! I have never had anxiety or been depressed before this. I am usually happy and upbeat and very high energy. I was encouraged when I googled these side effects and found this forum. Now I have hope that this will go away once I get off these. I just stopped altogether yesterday on day 16. I have not had appetite in a week. Have lost 5 lbs already. I would just caution those who choose to get on this pill to be hyper aware of any mood symptoms or appetite changes after starting this. If you start to experience these. GET OFF THIS PILL!!! Again thank you so much for those who have shared. I still might not know what was going on with me! |
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3/5/10 |
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I was only on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for 10 days and had to stop taking it. I started spotting by the 5th day but wasn't concerned because I wasn't sure where I was in my cycle when I started it (My periods had become very irregular). By the 6th day I had horrible cramps that got worse each day. I'm 33 and have always had horrible cramps the first day or two of my period but these cramps were excruciating at times. I was taking 6-9 Ibuprofen per day. I broke down in tears at work two days in a row because of the pain. By the 5th day of dealing with these cramps, I couldn't take it anymore, so I stopped taking it. After the third day in pain, I called my Doctor's office to tell them about the pain I was in and they told me that they didn't think the pain had anything to do with the pill... Seriously? Not related to the pill? I get bad cramps for the first day or two of my period but nothing like I experienced the short time I was on this pill. I absolutely hated this pill. |
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1/24/10 |
1 |
1 |
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AAAWWWFFFUUUUUUUUUULLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL wow, i was on this several years ago for a short amount of time but the awful memories stick with me til this day. ive been on yasmin for about 4years now and it works great for me. when on ortho tricyclen lo my sex drive disappeared also as well as my happiness; soon i was clinically depressed and suicidal. i had never experienced any depression previous to this pill... i would cry all the time, throw fits of rage, i felt like a monster in my own body!!! it was terrible! needless to say, once my physician noticed my side effects, linked the cause and changed my birth control- i was a monster until the other pill was in my system and regulated- i was finally back to being my normal self, depression-free, enjoyed life and had my libido back! |
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1/23/10 |
5 |
2 |
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I've been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for about 2.5 years. I have some mixed feelings about this pill. PROS: It helped tremendously with my headaches and migraines attack. I don't get it anymore. It is effective and I absolutely love this pills. CONS: I can't skip period with this pills. It's so inconvenient. As well, I gained weight and started getting cystic acne... Painful cystic acne all over my chin... As much as it helped with my migraine, but cystic acne is just as bad as migraines.. It's also generally more expensive than other brands. I would've stayed with this pills if it stops giving me the stupid cystic acne and allows me to skip my period. I heard from my ob-gyn that you can skip with this pill, but i read in their official website that it's not made for skipping period. So.. i don't want to find out by trying. |
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1/11/10 |
5 |
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I've been on Tricyclen Lo for a little over a year. In the past 3-5 months I noticed that my sex drive completely disappeared. I had no weight gain from the pill, no other physical or emotional side effects - only the loss of my sex drive. I'm thinking of switching to something else - I've never had this problem with other pills I took (Ortho tricyclen for about 6 years, Cileste for about 2 years). |
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11/26/09 |
1 |
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ortho tri-cyclen is the DEVIL! I've only been on it for a month, and i've already noticed a huge difference in my self! the second day after taking the pill, i felt different. i was irritated by almost everything, extremely emotional and depressed. i'm moody to begin with, but the pill brought my moodiness and irritability to a NEW level it was horrible! i didn't even know who i was anymore. i just finished my first package, and thankfully i'm not experiencing any random crying breakouts like some of the girls have. but i've had other horrible side effects. 1) moodiness/irritability. 2) depression 3) i'm eating like a PIG. 4) noticed a shortness of breathe at night after starting the pill.... so i'm not exactly sure why doctors prescribe this pill still, since almost every girl complains about it. but if your doctors does. DON'T TAKE IT! i'm throwing away the other 2 packages she gave me. hopefully you find a pill thats best for you! ortho tri-cyclen lo, you suck! |
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9/25/09 |
5 |
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4 |
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I'm 19 years old and I started taking YAZ when I was 18. That made me absolutely insane, so my doctor switched me to OTC-lo. This was May 08. I got married in June 08 and everything has been great--til the past few months. I got my period like clock-work, every 4th Thursday, which was awesome. I noticed I would get headaches and they were annoying, until my past cycle. I'm 99\% positive I had a migraine. It was horrible and I linked it back to OTC-lo because I started charting when I got my headaches, which was, every 4 weeks. I will be making a doctors appointment to switch to another brand and if that doesn't work, I'm unsure of what I'm going to do =/ |
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9/23/09 |
3 |
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The side effects were so bad that I went off after two months. It started with moodiness and extreme hunger the first week. Then that settled down but I became super anxious--it was hard to get to sleep at night and I started having nightmares all the time. After a while my body started feeling anxious even if I didn't feel anxious in my mind. By the second month I began to feel short of breath, and then I started to have spells where I would feel dizzy and my arms and face felt numb. When that happened I wasn't able to work or socialize, all I could do was lay down until it went away a few hours later. So after two months I quit and I'm so, so glad that I did. My boyfriend was begging me to go off the pills by my third week, he said he could tell that I wasn't as happy as I used to be. After this, I'm done with hormonal contraceptives. It was absolutely not worth it. It doesn't sound so bad written down matter-of-fact like this, but it was awful and stressful and horrible. |
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9/22/09 |
5 |
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I am 5'2", asian,18 years old. I have been taking this pill since I was 16 but stopped 2 months ago. This pill did work to prevent pregnancy but the side effects, ugh. It's definitely not healthy. The reason I stopped was because in the last 3 months I was on it, the room was spinning when ever I woke up in the morning. This made me feel very anxious. I also wasn't into sex as much as before. Didn't do much to my acne, in fact, my face is clearer now that I quit. So now I am off this pill, the room doesn't spin and my boyfriend and I are extremely happy. Condoms are alright ;) I will not be taking any birth control pill ever again. |
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9/21/09 |
4 |
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Completely wipes out any sex drive. Before tri-cyclen i had an average sex drive, but it made me care less about sex, which is quite aweful at 22! Was on it for only a month and decided the side effects were not worth it! Also made me so moody and paranoid, especially to my boyfriend. Only positive was it helped my face clear up a bit and my breast enlarged. |
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9/17/09 |
5 |
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WOW, I do have to say there're a lot of BAD reviews O.T.C.Lo. I guess I'm one of the lucky ones w/very little to no side effects.I have been using O.C.Tri Lo for almost 7-8 years.(Im 26) I started taking birth control at 14 due to massive cramps & fevers. I had tried several birth controls. I had massive nausea & headaches. I switched to Or. Tri Cyclen at 17 because it was proven to help with acne. I still had a little nausea, more than I wanted. I am a very petite 4'11 about 85lbs. So, my doctor switched me to Ortho Tri C. Lo. I started taking my pill at night. WAHLAAH! No more nausea. My lil grapes never got larger & I didn't really gain weight. My period used to be unbearable with massive 4+ days of bleeding. Now, I'm lucky if I bleed for 2 days. Very light & I rarely have cramps. I have the normal breakouts now & then, but solely believe a lot has to do with your diet. Worst side effect maybe a lil more than average loss of head hair. Try it for at least 3mths. Overall LOVE IT! |
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9/4/09 |
3 |
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I've always had a bad immune system so I get sick easily and have family history of depression. I was happy and energetic before starting tri cyclen lo. After about a year and lots of doctor visits, blood tests, and therapy they reached the conclusion I had thyroid problems and depression. Then, I heard at work that people go crazy from tri cyclen lo. I made the decision to change birth controls and WOW I felt soo much better. It was to the point where constantly increasing my antidepressants and adding other antidepressants to the mix was still not enough to keep me sane. It got to the point of attempting suicide multiple times because I didn't know what was wrong with me. I had no energy, cried constantly, felt like hell at all times, and was too tired to have fun or stand for a long time. I haven't been this happy or this energetic in SO long. It's amazing. DO NOT TAKE TRI CYCLEN LO!!!! |
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7/28/09 |
3 |
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i quit taking this pill a month ago and it wasn't soon enough. i have been on it for 2 months and it has been the worst of my entire marriage. i started right at the beginning of june and within a couple days i was just in a bad way. fighting constantly, upset over little things and july was the same way. my husband would point out that its the pill thats causing all this anger insecurity but i got offended when ever he did. but once you step back and look at a happy marriage and see where it went wrong, it all lines up with this damn thing. dont take this pill. |
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7/23/09 |
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i've been on this pill for a long time. and i was married to my husband for over a year when we finally decided to have our first child. so naturally i canceled my birth control and i found myself less attracted to my husband. we went to the doctor to have ourselves screened for genetic diseases and all that... we weren't happy with the results. it seems that the birth control was effecting some sensor of my brain that was used in picking a genetically compatible mate. normally it makes you more attracted to someone genetically different from you to keep the species fresh and to reduce the likelihood of of birth defects and other genetic screw ups. well long story short i picked one that was less compatible... and i wont even go into the physical side of things. |
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7/21/09 |
5 |
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I took this pill for three years because I was afraid to switch to anything else. It was great at first, less cramping, lighter periods. After the first 2 years I had gained 40lbs, Completely lost my sex drive, and was depressed and angry all the time. I would cry about the smallest things, and yell at people all the time. I had never behaved that way before this pill. My bf urged me to switch pills but I wouldn't until about a month ago (I switched to Loestrin24Fe). I haven't lost any weight yet, but I am happier and my sex drive has returned. I feel good about life again, and I am not as easy to emotionally set off!I do not recommend Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo to people as the side effects are terrible. Though on this new pill instead of emotional side effects I have been nauseous, dizzy, and had major breakthrough bleeding for about a week. <--However, I will take that over being a crazy psycho, wondering what is wrong with me, always crying, and never wanting to have sex again. |
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7/12/09 |
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I just finished my first pack of Ortho Lo, and I will not continue. I have Type 1 diabetes, so I was already aware of the effects it would have on my blood sugar, which have become worse during the last week. Prior to starting the pill, I exercised often & ate healthy, but in the past month, I've had no energy & have been eating everything in site! I gained 5 lbs. in just 1 week! Aside from the increased appetite, I've been an insomniac, even if I wake @ 6 a.m. I cannot fall asleep @ a decent hr. But the most terrible of all has been the bloating & constipation! I can't take it anymore, I am getting married in less than 2 months, I don't want to become pregnant, but I can't afford not to fit into my dress. I guess it's back to condoms for now : [ |
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7/7/09 |
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I've been taking this BC for about 2 years. It's great at preventing pregnancy but the side effects are too much. I've noticed I get headaches more often than I used to. I never got headaches. I also have these frequent mood swings and the smallest things make me cry. I have the racing heart and chest pains. 2 panic attacks. Dizzy when standing for too long. And sudden hot flashes. My **** did get bigger so that's a plus. And I gained maybe 5 pounds at the most..I think I'm going to give this one more month before I switch back to condoms. |
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6/9/09 |
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well i was on otc lo for 3 months and i liked it. I did gain some weight but i had no other side effects, very effective 100%, i got free samples from my doctor. But i wanted to try somethimg new...so im currently on yasmin, but im thinking i need to change to something else next month....overall i did love otc lo i do recommend it.... |
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6/4/09 |
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I was on ortho tc lo for about 2 years when i was in my teens. My boyfriend has a problem using condoms(basically that he just doesn't like them) and so I went on the pill when my gyno told me it would also improve my acne. Well, it didn't improve my acne. I am a small girl, 5'2" and before starting the pill only 100 lbs. I gained 25 lbs on this pill! As soon as I stopped taking it, I dropped down to 110, but could never lose those extra 10lbs, which i think it due to getting older rather than the pill. It didn't cause any other side effects though, and overall if it weren't for the massive weight gain I might still be on this pill. I am 22 now, and we have gone back to using condoms. My boyfriend was willing to sacrifice his sexual comfort to keep me from becoming a fatso! |
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5/24/09 |
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I have been taking the Ortho for about 7 or 8 years (I took Nordette the few years before that) and I am 28 years old. When I found this site, I could not believe what I was reading. For years, I have been living with the fear that I have been slowly losing my mind. I used to be an entirely different person. The latter part of this decade has been hell! I've been crazy, moody, depressed, manic, low libido, gained 10-15lbs (fluncuates), started looking into bipolar info...had panic attacks, had to call EMS twice...I just have this AWFUL fear of becoming pregant, I just don't trust condoms...been with the same man for 10 years, neither of us ever wants children. I just feel like I can't risk my health anymore...I want to be the girl I used to be, not a psychotic mood swinging b**** flying off the handle for the tiniest things...I took the last pill in the pak today...going to have a long discussion with my partner tonight about stopping the pill to see if my mentality changes. |
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5/9/09 |
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Basically, I paid $60 a month to get pregnant. However, OTC Lo has been the only pill I've taken that did not cause other side effects. Unfortunately, after taking it for over a year now, I just found out yesterday that it did not do its job. I have taken the pill exactly as directed, at the same time every morning, never missing a single one. I avoided all medications and foods that could possibly interfere with its effectiveness. Sadly, I am now part of the very small percentage of women that become pregnant while taking oral contraceptives. I am extremely angry and plan to find a new pill that is not such a low dose as this is the only reason I can come up with as to why the pill failed. I am not overweight but I am not thin either, and never has a doctor told me that a lower dose pill could be ineffective at my weight. I am graduating from college in a week and my birthday is a few weeks after that. This is the worst graduation/birthday present EVER! Don't choose this pill! |
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4/28/09 |
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I've always taken Tri Cyclen (Not the Lo). It's been about 5 years now and now is when I believe the pill has turned on me. I've never had any skin problems but for the past year I burn any time I'm in the sun. Also, my hair is thinning, I'm always tired, I've lost my sex drive and sex... is impossible. I have constant burning although I'm not sure if it's related to my pill yet, my doctors have ruled out infections and are running out of options. My heart also starts to race for no reason and I lose my breath and get dizzy. Hope this helps, I'd mostly like to know if somebody else has this problem. |
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4/10/09 |
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I was on Ortho Tri Cyclen (not the Lo one) for 7 years and my health provider had me switch to Lo last year cause my blood pressure was up (I was stressed at the time so I don't believe the pill was causing that). Since I've switched it's been horrible. I thought maybe I was still just stressed but the mood swings and the downward spiral the 2nd half of each cycle is unbearable. I cry for no reason, I am always tired, I stop doing the things I love to do and I gain weight. I am hoping to switch back to the non-Lo version again and see if things improve. Maybe it's time to stop birth control all together or find a whole new pill. |
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4/6/09 |
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This was the first (and only) birth control pill I have ever tried, and at first, I was really happy with it. I noticed a little dizziness and headaches, but nothing debilitating. My **** got larger (which, for me, was pretty much a plus) and I didn't notice any change in my sex drive. BUT I have had problems lately with the dizziness. In the middle of the third pack, at work (I teach adult ESL) I suddenly felt too dizzy to stand, and couldn't concentrate on what my students were saying. I dismissed them early and went to the ER, but all the tests came out normal. They told me I *might* have vertigo. And at the clinic where I get my BC, they said they thought it probably wasn't the pill, because I hadn't noticed any severe side effects in the first month. So I kept taking it, and have tried to deal with the nausea/dizziness/anxiety as best I can. Since today is the second time I've had to leave work early due to feeling too dizzy to concentrate, i think it's back to condoms for now. |
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4/4/09 |
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I ‘m a 19 year old black female. I started taking this pill at 18, noticed dramatic changes immediately. My heart was always racing, and I was constantly anxious. My completely lost my sex drive. It was very difficult for me to get out of bed, and I needed daily naps when I never had before. I had horrible nausea most days. I completely lost my appetite, and I was very weak from not eating. I lost 14 lbs on the first pack . My **** definitely got bigger. The week I got my period was the week I (mentally) felt the best. I hadn’t had any sex that month, but I got this weird vaginal pain in the days before my period, like I’d have very rough sex. I had to stop taking the pills because the anxiety was to the point I could get no work done. Within 2 days of stopping the pills, I was back to my normal self. They were quite cheap; on my drug plan, they were $7.70 for 3 months worth. But them being cheap wasn’t worth the mental cost of not being able to do anything. |
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4/3/09 |
5 |
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I have been on Tri-Cyclen Lo for 6 months and recently switched to Alesse. The only good thing about this pill that it works well as a contraceptive (I never got pregnant). Other than that, the side effects are ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE. Not only did I gain 10 pounds; I became THE MOODIEST PERSON ON THE PLANET. I randomly cried and got mad at my bf for no reason. A lot of other girls also said their hair shed a lot, which I have to agree (I have full, thick hair and started shedding a lot). My memory was also affected and I started having the worst short-term memory ever; I was always tired and needed naps and more sleep on a daily basis. Not only that, but my periods were extended significantly! I had my period for 6 days. Before the pill, I would only have it for 2 days. Unless you dont care about side effects and symptoms, go on it. But if you want to stay sane, skinny, not a cranky ****: switch to Alesse! |
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3/28/09 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I'm 17 years old, 5'2 and about 120lbs. I'm also asian, if that helps! I've been on Ortho TriCyclen Lo for about 2 weeks. Its great! I've read horrible reviews about tons of pills... even this one, but i decided to try it anyways! (And i'm glad i did.) I might be jumping the gun, since i've only been on it for 2 weeks, but i hope this continues! =] |
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3/27/09 |
5 |
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3 |
1 |
I'm 20 years old, and i've only been on this pill for 2 weeks, but i've already noticed a huge difference in how I feel. Normally I have virtually no anger in me, but since I started taking this pill, everything causes me to rage and curse like a sailor. There's also the depression that seems to hit like a ton of bricks and comes out of NOWHERE. I'm definately going to stop taking this pill once i'm done the pack. My family has asked why i'm so angry all the time, and its putting a huge strain on my relationship with my bf (we've been going out for 5 years and he said he's never seen me this moody/hatefull). The only good thing about this pill is that it cleared up my skin A LITTLE. Not worth the physco emotions. |
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3/22/09 |
5 |
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1 |
5 |
My periods are always 4-5 days, very light, and completely pain-free. I have mild acne and I'm usually pretty cheerful. Well, I started my first pack the Sunday I got my period..so it's day 18 of the pack, along with day 18 of my period. The first 10-12 days of the period I experienced excruciating cramps. Never in my life have I had this problem and I KNOW it's the pill. Now, still on my period, my whole face is one big zit and I have severe breast tenderness to the point where I can hardly walk. And for some reason I can hardly control my temper, and the smallest things have made me cry. I guess I could say the only good thing about this pill so far is that I'm not pregnant... Knock on wood, Thanks OTCL |
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3/9/09 |
5 |
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2 |
I never had issues with my period before starting this pill. My periods were always light, usually without cramps. And I'd say I was a normal, pretty positive person. Literally twelve hours after I took the first pill, I just started getting mad. For the next three months I'd pick fights for NO REASON, had anxiety, would just be awful. I'd attack people and was so easily irritated. I went home for Christmas break (I'm in college) and my mom and sister both said I was completely different. They wanted to know what had happened to me. My mother was even afraid to let me drive us home from school because I seemed so off the handle! Anyhow, I stopped taking it (for some reason at the time, I was hesitant). I only wish I'd stopped sooner. On it, I also had arm and joint pains, severe cramps for like a week, and my periods would last a week and a half. Also I lost weight. I can't believe I ignored the signs as long as I did. CONDOMS ARE EFFECTIVE and if you are still nervous, don't have sex. |
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3/4/09 |
5 |
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4 |
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I am 33 years old and have been off the pill for about 3 years. I have taken Ortho TC Lo in the past, so it was the first choice to return to the pill. I have 1 week left in my 2nd pack and it has been rough! The first month was pretty much fine - no real problems and my period was super light! Like, 3 days vs. a solid 5-6. Well, when I started the 2nd pack, after the 1st week - my **** blew up and are so sore I'm having to wear a sports bra every day. I can hardly handle how sore they are, coupled with massive bloating and cramping. One night so bad, I almost had to take Advil and I still had 2 weeks to go before my period. I have gained about 10 lbs. - not sure if it's from the massive eating I'm doing (probably) or if the hormones put it on (is it the chicken or the egg). Either way, I'm miserable and switching to another pill as soon as this pack is done. If that doesn't work - it's probably back to condoms for me. I'm just so uncomfortable... |
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2/8/09 |
3 |
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3 |
i've been on ortho- low for about 7 months straight now, and my emotions have been OFF THE WALL. my anxiety has SKYROCKETED, my boyfriend says i'm not the girl he fell in love with, i feel like i don't know who the hell i am anymore, i've became SO negative, used to be very outgoing and so positive & fun, and now i'm completely opposite of the special girl i used to be. it all fits in so perfectly, because about a week after i started the pill.. i noticed 100% crabbiness and i've never been that way. ever since that day, my mood swings have escaladed and its been getting worse & worse. personally i thought i was just going crazy and honestly lately i've seen no hope in this world.. but since readiing everybody else's reviews, i realize it's not me.. cause everyone else is saying the same exact stuff i am! after this pack, i'll be at the doctor.. on a new pill - garunteeed! also, when i first started taking the pill, my acne was SO bad for like 3 or 4 months.. good luck to everyone. |
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1/28/09 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
i have been on tlo for a year and i am not the person i used to be. for regulating my period it has been amazing. on time every month. other than that i am irrational, crippilingly depressed, ultra sensitive and i feel like there is nothing out there that is even good enough to get out of bed for. i can be laughing one minute and then say in my head i shouldnt be laughing and then sit by myself and cry. like a manic depressive bipolar person. im paranoid that my boyfriend does not love me any more and is going to leave me any day. this pill literally makes a sane girl crazy. i used to be so outgoing and fun and out every night and now i dont see the point in anything. i stopped taking it and i already feel different. for 16 buck a month its a good value but the hormonal side effects are unimaginable. |
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1/26/09 |
5 |
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3 |
18 year old female. I took this for a year (9/07 - 9/08) and I never noticed any side effects. However, after losing about 20 lbs and quitting smoking, I started taking it again 2 weeks ago (1/09) and I've had a lot of difficulties. I'm breaking out really badly and my appetite became huge and I gained 10 lbs. Also, I've experienced horrible mood swings and irritability. I stopped taking it today. I might look for another birth control, but for the moment, I will stick to other contraceptives. |
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1/25/09 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
I've been on these pills for a year and a half and have decided to try something different to see if something else "fits" a bit better. this pill has done it's job well and has given me very few side effects, however I would really like to see if there is a better one out there. This pill had very few side effects the first 6 months. Just some spotting, and a bit of irrational moodiness at first, but I don't know if I could completely blame that on the pill. After the first six months, I started to get pretty severe constipation and I would fluctuate weight between 5-10 lbs week by week. Prior to the pill I worked out daily and ate right. So I ate more fruits veggies and fiber, changed my workouts to make them more intense. The changes would work for a week or two and then I was back to being bloated and fluctuating between 5-10 lbs. I also think my hair is a bit greasier and I have small black hairs growing on my face. All in all a good pill, but it wasn't a home-run for me. |
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1/14/09 |
5 |
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4 |
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First off I want to say that this website has just changed my life! I have three pills then my period, and will NEVER take Tri Lo AGAIN!! ...I have been on the pill for about two years. For months I have been horribly depressed, irritable, paranoid and just a b*&$% to people I care about the most. I have often had suicidal thoughts, and would get set off by something so little, itd send me in a downward spiral. I'd get crazy thoughts that I am insane, or bipolar and would pick fights with my boyfriend. I love sex and this has lowered my sex drive so much so I am never turned on. Id get moodswings out of nowhere for no real reason, then snap out of them shortly after. Im in college and would skip class and often found myself extremely tired and lazy. I cry A LOT! I have never had a problem with irregular periods or weight gain. I am so happy I have realized this is what causing me to be the complete opposite of who I used to be; energetic, happy, outgoing, compassionate and fun! thnk yo |
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1/12/09 |
5 |
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5 |
3 |
There's so much I want to say: If you don't know who the hell you are anymore stop these pills immediately! I was near suicidal last week, with no hope I'd ever be my happy, independent, goal-oriented self. After 6.5 months of OTCL, my boyfriend of a year told me he's leaving if I don't start therapy and anti-depressants. My sis and BFF lost patience trying to calm my SEVERE panic attacks and crying hysteria that lasted HOURS. Nightmares, paranoid daydreaming, late to work, mania that my boyfriend is cheating on me...such sore **** it hurt to wear a shirt, spotting longer than my periods, and plummeting sex drive. The doc said I had to adjust! Felt I was trapped in someone else's mind and I didn't want to live. Last Thurs I found this site, stopped pills mid-pack. 4 days later, I'm 95% me again. My BF read these posts, eyes widened with relief that I had not become a psycho, clingy creature, so opposite from everything he fell in love with. I'm seeing a new doc after my period ends. |
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1/8/09 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
I have been on the pill for 5 months, and it made me PSYCHO! i already have a bad temper, but this made it SO much worse! I didn't even know who I was anymore, and it started to take a toll on my marriage already. It was great with keeping me periods regular, and I rarely had cramps. It also made my breast get a little fuller, but it wasn't worth all the emotional mess I was going through. It only happened on the 3rd week of pills, but it was still way too much. I'm switching. |
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1/6/09 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
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I was on this pill for 6 months and i actually just went to my doctor today to get more pills. I had been complaining about how i kept getting my period about a week early anad it would last for about 2 weeks. She switched my birth control to ortho-novum 1 35..does anyone no anything about this because i keep hearing really bad things and im nervous and i might want to switch back to ortho tri cyclen lo |
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1/6/09 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
I haven't been taking this pill for that long, but it works for me. As far as convenience goes, I found out that as long as I have my cell phone alarm to help remind me I am fine. It is completely effective as far as I can tell so far because Im not pregnant yet...a very good sign if you ask me. I guess Im lucky because I get the pill for free from my neighborhood clinic, which is a great relief because I don't have insurance and cant afford it. As far as side effects go, I have noticed soreness in my **** which can be extremely annoying, and my both my boyfriend and I have noticed that they seem to be getting bigger, which Im not going to complain about! I notice I am really tired (may be from the prozac I am taking), and can be a bit more emotional in more stressful situations. But it doesn't make me crazy...yet. Before this, I was taking Yasmin....and so far I like Ortho tri-cyclen lo way better! I would recommend people to try it out to see if its right for them. |
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1/5/09 |
4 |
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4 |
4 |
The only good thing about this pill is that i'm not pregnant. (knock on wood). Before reading everything on this site, I thought I was just beginning to hate the world. I'm starting to ignore my friends, my boyfriend, my family, and giving up dance which I love. Now i realize its from the pill and I want to switch right away! |
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1/4/09 |
5 |
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3 |
I have been taking this for about 6 years now and am going to stop. I never gained weight or had many of the other symptoms described here. At first I had no problems but have recently been having brown discharge with break through bleeding the week before and getting yeast infections. Monistat is a staple for me now. I love that it prevented pregnancy but it also lowered my sex drive. I want to be hormone free, so its back to condoms for me. |
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12/29/08 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
OTC lo makes me crazy.! my mood swings are out of control and it makes me very emotional. i haven't cried as much as i have for the past year in my whole life. other than making me emotionally crazy, i've lost a lot of weight, not that i was ever big before, and my breast did get bigger. but it's time to change it because i can't handle the emotinal anxiety that i get from it! |
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12/29/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
i have been on OTC lo for 5 months and i haven't had any major problems. my **** are more tender than they were before, but other than that i'm fine. and hey, i'm more worried about pregnancy than breast tenderness. My periods are shorter and ligher and my sex drive is right where it was. i've even lost weight. my medical covers most of the cost so i'm not worried about that either. i've been on other pills before that gave me migraines after climaxing, not with this one though. |
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12/22/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
I'm 34 and back on the pill after a 7 year hiatus. I was very hesitant to go back on the pill as I was afraid of the side effects. When I was younger and on a different pill, I gained weight, had frequent yeast infections and was very moody. But, I do not want to have a child, and the pill is very good at preventing unwanted pregnancy as long as you take it at the same time every day. I have nothing but GOOD things to say about Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. I have not noticed any change in mood swings (of course I get emotional near my period, but that has always been the case). I have had no break through bleeding. I did not gain weight. This pill increased my sex drive (yeah!). The best part, though, is that it seriously lightened my period. I have always had heavy periods that lasted at least 6-7 days. On this pill, my period is very light, very regular and last only 3 days. What a gift! If you're debating about which pill to use, try this one- it's great!! |
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12/19/08 |
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I'm 22 and I got ortho tri cyclen lo for very cheap so I thought I would try it after being on levora for 5 years. It is my fourth month taking it, I lost hair and weight mainly in my **** - they actually went DOWN from a 34DD to a 34D or C. But the biggest problem I have with this pill is that I am 97% sure now that I am pregnant... I took it perfectly every day never missed a dose and at the same time. I am taking a test in the morning but this is definitely the worst news ever. I have all the pregnancy symptoms and just know I am. the first few months I had almost no side effects, except for depression, lower sex drive, and was more dry than I used to be. But now, I think I got pregnant on it. |
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12/19/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
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i was on otclo for five years, i was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder at this time also and was put on antidepressants...well 5 years later i met the man i wanted to start a family with and i stopped taking OTClo...well lo and behold the bipolar symptoms disappeared...no more rage, anxiety, depression, crying, mood swings. My doctor discontinued my antidepressants and now i am totally fine! OTClo was probably at the root of most of my "mood disorder" |
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12/15/08 |
5 |
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I have been on Ortho Lo for almost years, and although I can say I never really had problems before...all the sudden this year everything is changing. I feel like my body is changing and the pill isn't, so my body is trying toadjust. I'm a 21 year old dental hygiene student and just realized the reason my gums have started bleeding more often is because of the birth control. I thought there was soemthing wrong with me, but an instructor informed me it was from all the hormones in my body. I also just got diagnosed with my first ever yeast infection...that won't seem to go away with treatment, and the doc says it could be from being on the pill for so long. I'm always tired, irriatble, and cranky. I really want to go off of the pill, but I'm afraid of what will happen when I do...weird periods are the least of my worries. I just don't want my hormones to be outta whack for awhile. I jsut feel like being on this pill isn't worth risking my personal and mental health... |
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12/15/08 |
5 |
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2 |
2 |
HELP!!! I have been on ortho tri cyclin lo for 5+ years. It seemed to work, but i have been getting very irritable lately and depressed and my skin is just falling apart!! Horrible acne and oily skin! HAS ANYONES SKIN TURNED RED ON BIRTH CONTROL???? I cant seem to figure out what is causing it. Im thinking about getting off my birth control at the end of this pack and trying a diaphram. please let me know if you have had this side effect!! Its ruining my life!! also i think its makingmy hair fall out!! |
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12/13/08 |
5 |
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5 |
1 |
Worked great as far as preventing pregnancy, and actually increased my sex drive, but.....Here is what week 1 was like (white pills): Bloated, nauseated, sore ****. "AM I PREGNANT??" Well how could I be, I just had my period 2 days ago! Add $12 to the cost of the pills because I'm buying a pregnancy test. Make that 2 of them. This is also the week that I was blessed with the suicidal thoughts on the monthly. Week 2: Tired, hungry, ready to go back to bed. Week 3: "I hate my boyfriend and he can't do anything right". Nice. It's like preparing for WW3 over here, I think he dug a foxhole last night. I do warn him when PMS or whatever you wish to call my heinous attitude is about to arrive as I know he may need a little bit of time to join the Witness Protection Program. Yeah, hungry all of week 2, then not really on weeks 1 and 3, and in spite the extreme fatigue I still run and go to the gym (I drink a lot of coffee week 2), and I'm still getting FAT which is fantastic!Back to condoms |
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12/10/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I have taken different pills over the last 16 years and have been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for about 9 months now. After reading the other comments here I think I am having side effects from it too. I have no sex drive any more and a lot of months I think I'm prego, tender **** and gassy feelings like early pregnancy. It always makes me paranoid (thank you Dollar store pregnancy tests!) but so far it is effective. I think I might ask my doctor about changing. |
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12/10/08 |
3 |
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I'm on ortho-tri cyclen lo right now and I absolutely hate it. For the last 6 months it has messed my body up completely to the point where I don't even want to switch birth controls, I just want to get off this one. For the first month it made me have horrible cramps everyday instead of the first day of my period, like i usually get them without birth control. then, the next two times, it made me start my period 3 days earlier, so i had my period for a total of ten days. they say birth control doesn't make you gain weight, not in my case, i've gained a while 15 pounds total while being on it, when it used to be hard for me to gain 5 pounds over a year. its horrible, and this month, it conveniently made me start 5 days before my period, so about two weeks on my period is what i'm looking forward too. i wouldn't recommend this for anyone. in fact, alot of my friends hated it too, i guess i should have listened. |
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12/9/08 |
5 |
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Overall I really enjoy this pill. The first few months I felt a bit nauseous and even had a fever a couple of days but it stopped after my body got used to the change (1-2 months in). I've been trying to lose weight and it hasn't caused any problems for me regarding that...i've lost 40 pounds whilst on the pill and i'm still losing weight. Women just have to remember that everyone will have different reactions to the pill. I highly recommend giving this pill a try. |
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12/8/08 |
5 |
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I've been on OTC lo for over a year now..I started taking it primarily for my acne.But be aware that the first 3 months was the worst, I broke out so much and got too emotional for no reason. After the 3 months, things went great, cleared out my acne but I would still get one or two before I get my period. I like this pill, I dont really have any problems with it except one thing, I noticed I gained nearly 10 pounds after 6 months. I've been eating the way I've always been and even exercises regularly, running 1-2 miles three times a week and I still did not lose weight. I'm thinking on switching to YAZ, so we'll see how that works.. If it doesnt, then I'm okay going back t OTC |
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12/5/08 |
5 |
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I've been on this pill for 2 months and I hate it! I've been on BC for about 7 years now and never had side effects like this. I was on Desogen then Alesse then Aviane and never had a problem. Then I was convinced by a different physician to switch to Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. About 2 weeks in, I had unbearable breast tenderness. It hurt to sleep on my stomach. I had to lay on a pillow! I also had spotting 3 weeks in, so it basically made my period last for 2 weeks. The worst side effect had to be the one on my sex drive, which is nonexistent now. I used to have a pretty high sex drive and now I have none. Also, I was really emotional. I wanted to cry all the time. This pill is absolutely horrible! |
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11/30/08 |
5 |
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I have onlt been on the pill for two months now...i have some side effects such ass dizziness, and spotting inbetween periods and in the first month i had a periode that started the first day i took it that lasted a week i was off my periode for a week and then it started back and lasted 3 more weeks...i have also had some mood swings such as lashing out from being irratable..hoping that after my body gets used to the pill that these side effects will go away and my body will learn to reguate everything..buit if they continue for another two months im def. switching b.c.'s!!! |
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11/29/08 |
5 |
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5 |
I have been on OTC lo for 3 months and I really don't have a problem with this pill. The reviews I just read were pretty shocking, because I have had really no noticeable weight gain, my sex drive INCREASED, and I went up a full cup size. I used to have terrible migraines and bad anxiety, now I am calmer and have less headaches. I am less stressed and generally in a better mood about everything. I have no mood swings, only the week of my period, which is when I am on the placebo anyway. The only downside would be that my periods used to only last 3 days and were very light, now they last 5 and are average. But all in all my experience with this pill have been very positive!! I really don't understand what all the fuss is about here. |
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11/25/08 |
5 |
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I have been one them for almost a year and i have regular pariods no spotting yet, but mine only cost me 9 dollars without insurance |
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11/16/08 |
5 |
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I have been on this pill for almost a year, and I love it. I was on Desogen before, and it made me depressed, and I cried all of the time. Since I've been on this pill, my depression disappeared, and my PMS has calmed down considerably. I had nausea for a little while, but I was also diagnosed with stomach problems that probably caused the nausea rather than the pill. It made my period last only about a day and a half. The only thing I don't like about it is that it doesn't help with my cramps; before I was on the pill, I had horrible, horrible, laying-in-bed-crying kind of cramps. They are not near as bad as normal, but I still have them worse than when I was on desogen. Another thing I was worried about was the fact that my boyfriend's roommate's girlfriend got pregnant while on this pill; however, I think she didn't take it on schedule as well as she should. |
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11/11/08 |
4 |
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2 |
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I've been on this for 3 months - I am 29 and never took bc but started this to get rid of ovarian cysts. So far nothing horrible (knock on wood) - the most inconvenient things that I haven't really seen mentioned are a very gassy stomach during weeks 2-3; smelly discharge a few days before my period; and problems wearing my contacts - eyes are dry every once in a while, but more irritated, itchy and red (since it is winter, can't attribute that to pollen). We'll see how it goes, if it is worth the $50 a month to continue after the cysts are gone, otherwise I am fine with condoms, why mess with hormones, even if it is a low level? |
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11/10/08 |
5 |
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5 |
I have been on Ortho Tri-Cy Lo for a year and have had very few issues. Recently, I have started spotting at least a week before my period is supposed to start...so its been as if I'm on my period for 2 weeks straight. I went through the early spotting last month and experiencing it again this month. I did not have any emotional side effects or weight gain issues with this pill, other than the normal PMS symptoms that I experienced before taking the pill. I am considering switching b/c it is not covered under my insurance, and I pay $50 per month for it. If the new pill I take does not agree with my body..I will def. switch back to Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo. |
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11/7/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
I absolutely hate this pill and I am switching to another one today. It has caused a good portion of my hair to fall out, my eyes are always dry and the cramps I have during my period are absolutely unbearable. The only good thing is that it has made my skin clear up quite well. |
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11/5/08 |
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At 18, I started on OTC lo to help give my lighter periods. The drug has tremendously lightened my periods, and made them more regular. The side effects I recieved were hot flashes and weight gain. After about 6 months on the pill, I gained over 10 pounds and had slight acne breakouts. The prescription is also quite expensive, and my insurance does not pay for birth control. With a discount from my pharmacy, it still costs around $55. I've been lucky enough to get plenty of samples from my doctor. Overall I'm satisfied with the drug. It's greatly brought down the heaviness of my periods, and given me a lot of relief. Also expect a little moodiness! |
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11/5/08 |
5 |
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This is an excellent BC choince for someone who wants a lower level of hormones. The one downside to this BC is that it made my skin break out terribly! Although, I felt better once I switched to this BC after taking ortho-tri cyclen for 8 years (which also worked well but I began to have side effects & headaches). I still get slight withdraw headaches when I get to the placebo pills in the pack, but overall this has been a good change for me. |
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11/3/08 |
5 |
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5 |
3 |
I was on OTC lo for about 2 years. Right away it made my periods perfectly regular, which was good because before on was on the pill it never came predictably. It worked fine for about 18 months and then I started spotting like crazy. The month before I switched to something new, I kept track and figured out that I spotted almost 20 days out of the month, not counting my actual period. That was driving me nuts so I switched. But it did serve me well for a while. |
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10/30/08 |
5 |
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4 |
5 |
When I first started OTC-Lo, It gave me nausea and spotting so I stopped until I went back on it recently. I finished my first pack & now I am on the green placebo pills. This stuff cleared up my face! It's hard for me to get rid of acne but this did the trick. I don't get spotting (yet...) and this does not alter my mood. I guess it differ for everyone. I dont get nausea or spotting like I did in the beginning. The only bad thing is that my cramps are still as bad as ever. Not for everyone, but I recommend it. |
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10/21/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I've been taking this pill for about 3 yrs now and haven't had any problems until recently. It really helped initially for horrible cramps and keeps my period regular, but not shorter, still 5 days long. For about 2 months now, I've been having spotting. The past 2 weeks, the spotting has been really bad. I went to my dr, and she said it's probably the pill, so she switched me to Ortho cept. I will be starting that soon, so hopefully it helps. |
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10/17/08 |
5 |
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5 |
5 |
I got the pill today and i'm starting this sunday.i read mostly all the comments. I'm glad i looked it up ,now i am aware of what kind of side effects i should expected.The cons and pros seem to vary from person to person. I'm excited to start on it.IM too young (17) to get pregnant. |
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10/16/08 |
5 |
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4 |
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This one was great, and many who didn't like it... well it's likely that their body just didn't like it. Everyone's body reacts differently to different pills, i remember YAZ worked terribly for me, but that's ok it takes a few tries to find the right one. That's all fine and dandy, but Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo was really good for me until now. I think my body is too used to it and it's time to switch it up. I have heard a few people say they didn't have any issues until a few years down but that you are supposed to change pills every couple of years anyway. it helped my acne, it helps my cramps and moodiness, it shortened my period which wasn't hard to do i'm one of those 7-10 dayers and it kept me regular. |
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10/15/08 |
5 |
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4 |
4 |
I'm almost 19 I was on this pill for 2 years and had no side effects.. i recently switched to Yaz because of the idea of no acne and no PMS.. however i lost my sex drive completely with Yaz which is awful.. it caused fights with my boyfriend because he feels like i don't want to be with him. OTC Lo is a great pill it just depends on the person. it works for me and my sex drive is starting to go back up because i switched back and i hope it goes back to the way it way before because i used to actually enjoy sex, ugh |
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10/14/08 |
5 |
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4 |
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I've only been taking this pill for 10 days and I've been super moody.The worst part is the depression. I didnt' think I would be able to get it again and now I see why I feel so nauseous and depressed. I thought it was my fault. Maybe it has something to do with this pill. Maybe. Probably. |
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10/12/08 |
1 |
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1 |
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Ok so I just stopped taking the dran things today and I'm soooo excited to start on yasmin. I want to start off by saying that this bc was definetly NOT for me. Everything was great, until it wasnt. My boyfriend and I were going through a really rough time because I was being so irrational about everything and its so not me. You know? So anyways,I learned that a common side affect to the pill is nervousness (I was very paranoid), and depression (I was there). Son in conclusion whoever is taking this pill, and is not sure whether or not to stop taking it because of mood swings, stop taking it now!! Its only going to get worse from here. and for those who are taking this pill, and likes it so far, dont stop taking it. Stick with it. It may be the right one for you :) |
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10/10/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
I've been on this pill for two years, and overall, I've been very happy with it. The only side effects I've ever had have only happened over the past few months. I had some bad spotting one month, and recently, I've had some acne that won't go away. But one month of spotting in two years isn't bad at all. I'm starting a different brand next month to see if it will clear up this acne issue. OTC Lo has been good for me though! |
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10/6/08 |
3 |
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1 |
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I have been on Ortho Lo for 3 months. My periods are VERY short (2.5 days), and I don't have any cramps, BUT I have gained 25 pounds, broke out completely, and I cry non-stop, my **** are VERY sore, I can sleep for days, have no sex drive, and am starting to think the reason my boyfriend broke up with me is because I AM crazy (but that would be from all the pill's side effects...right? I sure hope so!) I'm just going to stop having sex, therefore will not get pregnant, and then have no need to take this pill that has more negitave side effects then anything else. |
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10/2/08 |
5 |
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4 |
4 |
I was on this pill for about 3 years before having my baby. Now I'm back on it. No problems except a slight weight gain (1-2 lbs). I've had none of the anxiety or moodiness others have reported and my period is light, little cramps and like clockwork. All in all i've had a great experience. |
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9/30/08 |
5 |
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The only side effect that I seemed to have was constant headache. So I immediatly switched to Lutera. I was on orthotricyclen before and that worked good the only thing is, is that after being on it for 7 years i started to have heavy, painful periods. |
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9/30/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I hate these pills.They turn me into a complete ****. I like Ortho Tri Cyclen better, but I have to use these t pills because I needed them for an emergency, because now my insurance has a new policy where I have to call in my pills. These pills make me really moody, and I have an appetite that's up and down and out of control!I'm tired all the time and I hate them.I would definitely not recommend these pills to anyone. I would say go with the original ortho.It's much better. But then again, all women aren't the same. |
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9/30/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
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I am on my second month of OTC Lo, just started the placebo pills yesterday. I'll just give the pros and cons as simply as possible. PROS: Very light period, only lasts 3 days and is like clockwork. No breakthrough bleeding, very little cramping. And I think my **** are growing (yay! lol) CONS: I can barely wear my contacts anymore, they irritate my eyes soooo bad! Extremely sore ****, complete lack of sex drive, depression, anxiety, TERRIBLE nightmares and very vivid dreams. My appetite is up and down, one week I want to eat everything in sight and the nex week I don't want to eat at all! And I am sooooooooo tired all the time! |
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9/25/08 |
1 |
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3 |
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I'm 34 years old and have not been on any bc for the last 9 years. I went back on to help with extremely heavy periods and for future birth control as I want to remarry next year. The first week my **** became sore, and I was a bit nauseous. The second week I started bleeding and continued bleeding (extremely heavy with clots) until the end of the last week of pills. I was also extremely moody, very irritable and depressed. I had heaviness in my chest and it felt like my heart was beating irregular. Once I was done the first pack I started feeling better, bleeding stopped and I felt great. Then, 3 days into the white pills- second pack, I had such terrible thoughts, almost suicidal and depressed. I am a counsellor and recognized this as a hormonal issue and not me, I have stopped taking it. It may work for some, but not for me. I will search out other methods of bc once I am married. |
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9/25/08 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
These ratings have helped me out sooo much! I have been taking OTC-lo for almost 3 weeks now. I am on my last few active pills of the first month. I really needed something to regulate (and hopefully shorten) my excruciating periods. I am hoping it works, but have not had my first period on the pill yet. For the last 2 weeks or so I have been bloated worse than I have ever been in my life! So much, I was convincing myself I was pregnant. To look at me, if I was pregnant I'd have to be about 6 weeks! I feel like a balloon. Along with the added anxiety from the pill, all this extra bloating has really taken a toll on me emotionally. For those of you who have experienced the same thing, does this eventually go away? I want to continue taking the pill, but I am tired of being a balloon!! |
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9/17/08 |
5 |
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5 |
5 |
I first went on OTC Lo in 2005. I was on it for about a year & a half, and during that time my skin completely cleared up, though it was not bad to begin with. I think I may have gained 5-10 pounds, mostly in the breast department. My periods were way lighter, you could set your clock to them and I never had cramps. While I was off it my skin remained clear and I didn't notice any difference in my weight. I went back on it 2 months ago and it seems to be having slightly different effects. My skin is breaking out more than usual but I think it is still too early to rule out diet & stress. I've been a little more moody but nothing severe. After the 2nd pack my period is already behaving like it did last time I was on it. One remarkable difference is the 1st time I was on the pill I completely lost my sex drive which didn't come back for close to a year after going off it, and since I've been back on it this time my sex drive is through the roof! But that could just be my new guy. ;) |
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9/16/08 |
4 |
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I'm a pharmacy student (5 years out of 6) so I know a good amount about birth control. I was on depo ('the shot') for 3 years. It work great (mainly cause you don't have a period) but I did gain some weight but when I stopped I had HUGE side effects. I got off the shot in May and start OTCL abour 2 1/2 weeks ago. I will admit the side effects are horrible but expected. I was SEVERLY anxious and depressed. I was sooo anxious I convienced myself I had AIDS or I was pregnant (I even went and tested TWICE for these...i even paid extra money...both came back negative). I now see I was being ridiculous but it happens. I had bloating and my **** was huge and tender (more huge than tender). I haven't gained any weight but as long as you exercise and eat healthy you can prevent any weight gain (proven fact!). I started the pills midway through my cycle so I did get break through bleeding (basically a normal period). It is normal to get cramping due to the changing estrogen levels. |
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9/16/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
I loved this pill. i never had a single complaint about. my sex drive stayed the same, my moods never fluctuated anymore than usual, my weight was consistant, and acne was never a problem. although, because theres no generic form i can no longer afford it! not a good thing! i switched to ortho tri cyclen a slightly higher dose and i am a crazy person! i do not recommend it! my boyfriend and i are ended after 3 years because this pill makes me a mad woman and i get mad, irritated, agitated, annoyed...etc etc at the drop of a hat. it doesnt take much to piss me off anymore. i used to be a calm and collected person. i wish there was a generic/cheaper form of ortho tri cyclen lo! |
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9/13/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I switched to OTC-Lo from Desogen because I could no longer afford Desogen. OTC-Lo definitely kept me from getting pregnant, but I had a few more (very minor) side effects from it. I gained a bit of weight, my cramps are more intense, I get headaches with my period, and my mood is slightly off during the placebo week. However, although the side effects were annoying, they were still massively improved from how I was before I started taking BC. I'm switching to Lutera to see if it is a better fit for me, but if not, I have no problem going back to OTC-Lo. Although it's not the best fit for me, I would still recommend it to others. |
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9/13/08 |
5 |
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5 |
5 |
I've been on this pill for about a month and so far i've liked it. I got my period, which had been absent for 6 months. i've lost weight (6 pounds), my **** have gotten bigger although tender. the only issue has been a bit of nausea at the beginning of the month. but its not that big of a deal. for me, its been a godsend. i'm very happy with this pill and i suggest it to anyone. |
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9/12/08 |
4 |
2 |
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I have been taking Orthotricyclen lo for over 1 and a half months. Previously was on Alesse but was getting migraines before my period lasting 1 to 2 weeks. Ortho has cleared up my skin, I have stopped having severe cramps and have light regular periods. My concern is severe breast tenderness. I went up at least a cup size already and have had constant pain, with alesse my breast only hurt 1 to 2 weeks before period. This breast pain is very intense and constant, its agony. I noticed others posted about breast pain but I'm wondering if other ortho users noticed it decreased after 3 months or not. I'm thinking of trying one more month. |
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9/12/08 |
5 |
1 |
4 |
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I'm glad I found this site because I've become aware of so many side effects I am having that I thought it was actually me!!! For effectiveness, I admit that the OTC Lo has worked beautifully, no pregnancy, 100% effective for me. I began taking it to treat ovarian cysts which also worked and the cysts have disappeared. However I've become EXTREMELY MOODY. I was beginning to think I had to get psycho therapy, I also pick alot of fights with my b/f and family, and get really depressed often. I've begun to stain since yesterday and I'm not supposed to **** until next week. I never had this side effect before. My periods have always been consistent and no pregnancy. However, if in fact from what I've read, this does make you moody and irritable, I will stop at once. I prefer my sanity over not having cramps and all the other pros. I'll just buy condoms from now on. |
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9/12/08 |
5 |
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I admit, before being on the pill, I thought that people who complained about the side effects like moodiness and irritibility had it all in their heads. But then I was put on OTC Lo and went absolutely crazy. I was on it for 3 months before my 'pill check' with the doctor,and by then, the side effects had seemed to get a little better. (I had nausea the first and/or second week every month, EXTREMELY emotional and would cry at the drop of the hat, worsening acne, and WICKED cravings to the point that I gained 10 pounds!) That all seemed to get better, so I told my doctor I'd stick with it a little longer. Then, the fourth month was SOOO bad that I couldn't take it anymore. (i.e. I cried for an ENTIRE MORNING and almost broke up with him when my bf said he was on a job and didn't have time to talk!)I was leary at first of switching to something else because (the ONLY good thing) I had NO spotting on OTC Lo, but it got too bad and Ill risk it with something else. (My dr put me on Yasmin |
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9/11/08 |
5 |
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I'm really surprised to see that so many women have problems with this pill. I've been on ortho tri cyclen lo for over two years and have had no issues what so ever. I haven't gained weight, the only thing I gained was a full cup size which is a great thing for me. My sex drive is not as great as it used to be but I wouldn't say that the change is drastic. It has only decreased minimally and I have no issues getting in the mood for sex. I think it's a really great pill, my period is always exactly on time and very short. I would recommend trying this pill out for yourself because it just might work out for you. |
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9/9/08 |
4 |
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OTC-Lo for 2 months; I was trying to hold off for at least 3 mos before switching, but no way. I've gained 8 lbs, constantly hungry/munching all day, acne has gotten worse-not better, vaginal dryness/decreased lubrication, and worst of all--DEPRESSION. I'm usually happy & manage stress well; I'm studying to be a psychologist. During the 1st cycle (the white pills) I had crying fits everyday and felt like life wasn't worth living. I picked fights with my boyfriend. This extreme irrational behavior is not like me at all. It was like I was watching myself in some out-of-body experience. Then my period came and I felt better. In fact, it was VERY light, and only lasted 3 days with very little cramps. There was no spotting in between. So I thought I would try to ride the mood swings out. Then I started the white pills again and found myself contemplating suicide. The feelings were just like those my patients with Major Depression have, I knew I had to stop. Considering Yaz as alternative. |
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9/8/08 |
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I have been taking this pill for almost 3 months now. When I first started using them, I had my period for a whole month! And I haven't seen it since! I know I am not pregnant. Also, my **** have been hurting for more than a week now, they usually only hurt a week before I get my period. I have also had a stray cramp for a couple seconds or so but I don't know when I'm suppose to get it. Someone please respond to me please! |
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9/3/08 |
5 |
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I think that ortho tri cyclen lo is a good birth control. I have been on it for almost a month(yeah I know how could I know) and nothing has happened. I think that half of the things that have occured to you women is a lie. Why? Well because it even says on the website AND by women themselves OH AND by gynos that this pill is very effective. So I have no clue why I read all of these little stories because I believe gyno's and the website over you all. |
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9/2/08 |
4 |
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I've been on this pill for a year, and the first month was fine but I started to lose my sex drive completely at the third month and I even lost sensation completely in and around my vagina when I had sex with my boyfriend. This pill causes vaginal dryness and my period didn't come 3 times in the full year I was taking the pills. After I'd read the loss of my sex drive had something to do with the pills, I stopped 2 weeks ago and my libido is still low. I've completely lost my sex drive and sexual sensation for 10 months now and it makes me worry that it'll be like this forever! I want to enjoy sex again but all I do now is to avoid. |
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8/26/08 |
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I'm on my 3rd month of this and have mixed feelings so here's my pros/cons. Pros:brought back my sex drive(yasmin depleted),no more cramps/endo flareups,light bleeding,periods work like clockwork,hardly any side effects(read cons though) Cons:water retention(my a** feels much bigger and my hips are too!)-I used to drink 3 litres of water daily and it would come out then I started on this pill and I'd get only droplets(I know tmi). I feel TERRIBLE because it's the only pill that has done anything good to me. I have decreased my sodium intake and exercise much more than before but it doesn't help. I've got 2 more months on this before seeing my dr to ask for another prescription because this water weight makes me want to cry. |
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8/26/08 |
5 |
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I put my 16 yr old dtr on this. She says she is not having intercourse with her bf, but I don't trust that. She has only been on it 2 months. No one has mentioned having trouble wearing contacts? She is having lots of problems with her contacts, now she is having headaches and terrible nausea. She is feeling so sick she couldn't play volleyball at her usual level and was put down to JV. I am not sure if this is all due to this pill or not, but she stopped taking it today. |
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8/26/08 |
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I have been on OTC Lo for 6 years now. I started on it when I was in college and it worked really well. I had no side effects and felt great. 2 years ago, my gyno put me on the regular dose because so many girls were getting pregnant on the Lo. I had the worst cramps and mood swings in my life for two months so I asked to be switched back to LO. Things were better as far as my period but ever since she switched me off and back on this pill my sex drive has been non-existant(I used to have a huge sex drive). Over the last year I've also begun to feel more and more depressed. I've been sleeping and sleeping and not ever feeling rested and many other things. Although my husband and I are not ready for kids, we've agreed for me to go off of the pill and risk it over dealing with the side effects. |
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8/24/08 |
5 |
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I'm 22 years old and this form of birth control was the first that I have ever used. I was very nervous about trying this pill because of all the bad reviews. However, I have been on the pill for a year now and its good. I wouldn't say its great because I get very bad mood swings. Even my fiancee was getting annoyed with my moods from the pill, but I am controlling it alot better. I have not gotten pregnant so thats a plus. I have not gained any weight. I actually lost weight on the pill and my cup size went down from a DD to a C. So, as you can see not everyone gains weight. Everyone's body is different.I pay nothing for this pill because my medicaid covers it.That is definitely a plus. What might work for one person, might not work for another. |
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8/23/08 |
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I took regular ortho-tri-cyclen and I didn't have any side effects. However, the OTCL made me anxious, very moody, depressed, bloated and I gained a lot of weight (almost 20 pounds). I went up a cup size...but that can be attributable to the weight gain, I'm sure. Once I stopped taking it, I felt so much better. |
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8/17/08 |
5 |
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THIS PILL IS AWESOME FOR PREVENTING PREGNANCY!! I've been on OTC lo for 5 years and it has done its job very well. It does have some major side effects. I've gained 20 lbs. Before I went on it I was cup size 32 B and now I'm 36 C (almost going into size D)!! That's great if you want big **** but I was a small person and wanted to stay that way. I feel bloated all the time and feel like a huge blimp. I have violent mood swings and pick fights with my fiance for no reason. I have absolutely no sex drive now and dread the thought of it. I just hope I will go back down to size and become normal again after going off the pill because I cant take it any longer. The good thing I can say about it is I have not gotten pregnant and that's why I went on it at 17 years old :-) |
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8/15/08 |
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Women Beware! I took this pill from Feb 07 to Aug 07. The two major side effects are weight gain and pregnancy! I experienced drastic weight gain (about 50 pounds). I took it every morning between 6:45- 7:oo a.m. That fifteen minute discrepency shouldn't be enough to throw the effectiveness off. Even more damning, two of my co-workers experienced the same side effects. We all have newobrns or infants. I have a four month old little boy that wasn't planned. I would research it and make sure this particular combination is right for your body. I was told by my OBGYN that is has a lot of estrogen in it, which can cause weight gain. The important lesson here: Be in more control of your body. Do not take any medication just because it is offered by your doctor. Be informed and research it yourself. |
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8/14/08 |
5 |
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I am 20 years old I started this pill about 8 months ago! The first month as told by my GYN would have BTB and I did which was annoying but bearable. After that first month it has been spectacular/great/awesome, the only thing I can say is that in the first 3 months I had a decreased appetite but afterwards I got back my regular appetite back. I didn't gain any significant weight, if anything when I started this pill I lost some because of the decreased appetite. My **** gained a half cup bigger, my sex drive is really high; but it has always been. This is my first BC ever, all I can tell you other women is that everyone is different and you have to give your body a chance to adjust. It's been great for me and before I started this pill I read these very reviews and was skeptical and kinda scared of trying it but I did and I couldn't be happier to be worry free :) - Aria |
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8/14/08 |
5 |
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I am eighteen years old and just heading off to college this year. Before heading to college, i wanted to get on a birth control, my doctor said to start a few months before school to get used to any side effects. I am on my third month and i am really glad i listened to my gyno. For the first month and a half i was on regular Ortho Tri-Cyclen and it made me feel horrible daily. Some days i just didn't want to get out of bed. I had constant nausea, severe moodiness and just felt groggy. when i started OTCL the nausea went down, i rarely have it anymore. The moodiness is still there a bit -- but i am a teenager. And the periods are completely regular. My only complaint is that my face seems to be more oily than it used to and i have more breast tenderness (although i have noticed a size increase). I think that this birth control pill is a very good option for someone who is starting on contraceptives. Just give it time to get used to, even if you feel horrible at first from it. |
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8/12/08 |
5 |
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I am a 21 year old mother of one. I have been taking this pill for about 4 weeks now. Before taking it I was trying to get pregnant, but my relationship changed so I went on OTCL. So far there has been alot of spotting and I did have a yeast infection the first week wether or not that was a side effect I don't know. But my sex drive has more than doubled and the spotting has cut back enough that I can get back into sexual activity. I have lost 7lbs since starting the pill, and I am about 60lbs overweight so it can keep on going. Overall I like the pill I am just hoping the spotting stops soon it sucks not knowing if you can plan something or not. |
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8/12/08 |
1 |
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3 |
3 |
so i have been on 3 different kinds of birth control before this one so i know what to expect with some side effects. this pill was the worst. here are all of my side effects: extreme breast tenderness that lasted 3 out of the 4 weeks in the month, spotting, extreme irritability, loss of appitite, lowered sex drive, and more frequent headaches. it took me about 2 months to figure out why things were so hectic for me and my relationship with my boyfriend had been suffering from this. my emotions were all over the place and i was just not feeling myself and very unhappy all the time. i didn't even finish my 3rd pack before i went off of it and are now on a different perscription. |
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8/12/08 |
5 |
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5 |
I had a heart attack in Jan 2003. They took me off the pill and put me on the shot. On the shot, I was moody and hungry and gained a lot of weight. I finally stopped in March 07. After the shot, I lost a lot of weight, and was "normal", my mood and appetite were stable. I had to wait for my period to come back to start OTCL, which took 6 months, I noticed I was hungrier. However, the weight gain is nowhere near what it was with the shot. And my moods aren't terrible. I do notice the week I am not on the pill my appetite decreases. Everyone will have different reactions. My doc also prescribed Microgestin, but the reviews scared me away from it. I will stick with OTCL for as long as I can. It's been a year and a half now, and I feel that Ortho Lo is dependable, predictable and safer for someone like me to take because of the lower level of hormones. |
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8/10/08 |
5 |
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2 |
1 |
I'm 21 and was average to slim prior to taking this pill. After taking it 3 and a half months (yeah, I didn't even wait to finish the 4th pack to quit taking it, it was that bad) I gained 20-30 lbs. I was constantly hungry on it, and abnormally moody... the pill's effects on me ruined my relationship with my boyfriend of a year and a half. I've now been off it for about 3 months and have only been able to lose about 5 pounds. I'm bigger than a size 6-8 for the first time in my life and have stretch marks on my stomach - when I first noticed the stretch marks that was my cue to stop taking the pill and the marks have since gotten worse despite not having gained any weight since i stopped taking the pill. I still don't feel like myself and don't have the sex drive I had before taking the pill due to low self esteem as a result of such sudden weight gain. I will never be taking any hormonal birth control again, condoms have no side effects. |
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8/4/08 |
1 |
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1 |
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I have just started taking this pill like 2 or 3 weeks ago and im already gaining weight sooo not cool. the only good thing about it is my sex drive has increased!!! overall this pill sucks! Yaz sucked too |
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7/30/08 |
5 |
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I'm 46 and I just went on this - month 2. I had been off BC pills for a few years because (the last one was Yasmin) they made me insatiably hungry so I gained weight, killed my libido (I know: ironic) and made me so moody; but my periods were light. OTCLo has been great; in fact, I don't even know I'm on anything. None of the old side-effects appeared but I am getting breakthrough bleeding starting on day 15 to 21 - a real drag. I've been a little lax at taking the pill at exactly the same time everyday and it's only month 2 (they say to give it 3 months) so that could explain the bleeding, but I have to say it's quite an improvement for me. Every woman's body reacts differently to different meds so you have to try what's right for you. Unfortunately, when you have to give a medicine 3 months to work out the kinks in your body, it can take a while to find the right one. |
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7/30/08 |
4 |
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5 |
I posted an earlier review on 4/4/08. I took this birth control pill for 4 months and my **** were terribly bad sore the entire time I was on the active pills and they didnt hurt at all when I was on my period. Other than that I had no complaints. I had to stop taking the pill due to switching doctors and medical reasons. Ive been trying to find out how fast your fertility returns and how easy it is to get pregnant after stopping OTCL but no one can seem to tell me. I guess its not an exact science. I didnt get pregnant on this pill even though its true that more women get pregnant off lo dose BC pills than others, hopefully that means my fertiliy will return faster than wiht ohter BC pills too. |
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7/30/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
I had been on regular Ortho Tri Cyclen for the past 8 years..since I was 17 years old. It was always a good bc option for me until about 2 years ago when I began to notice some negative side effects including sudden weight gain, moodiness, severe headaches, dizziness, & weakness in my arms. Per my doctor's recommendation I have now switched to Ortho Tri Cyclen LO. I have been very pleased with this pill. Almost all of the negative side effects have disappeared & I have been feeling much better overall. I will continue to use this pill & have been pleasantly surprised with Ortho tri cyclen LO! |
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7/28/08 |
4 |
1 |
4 |
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This pill was very good for the first 5 months or so. No side effects whatsoever and it was very convenient. After this time span, however, I started getting extremely depressed the two weeks before, during, and sometimes after my period and had suicidal thoughts for a few days every month at this time. The emotional lows it makes you go through are awful. I am normally an extremely happy and optimistic person, so I know it is because of the ortho tri-cyclen lo. I am currently still on the pill, but plan on switching to a different one when my current amount runs out. |
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7/25/08 |
5 |
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So I've been taking Ortho Lo for about 5 weeks now, and everything has been fine. The first two weeks I had a little bit of bloating that went away easily with an over the counter diuretic. I haven't been quite as able to stick with my diet (I've been a little bit hungrier) but it isn't anything extreme. I definitely haven't noticed any weight gain...If anything I've lost weight (But I also exercise daily). But other than that, no real die effects, and my period was so light I forgot I even had it! It was great! It is a little annoying to take it at the same time everyday, but I just take it with me wherever I go and set my cell phone alarm so I don't forget. Definitely give this pill a try, you might like it! |
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7/24/08 |
5 |
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4 |
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A couple of my friends didn't have problems with ortho tri-cyclen lo. For me, it did increase my breast size temporarily, but it made me highly emotional and depressed with suicidal thoughts when I was taking it (I am definitely not a depressive person and do not want to die, but I knew it was from the pill so i endured until it got too bad). Side effects stopped when I stopped taking it... but this is not a pill I would recommend if you get depression from it because it was horrible for me. |
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7/20/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I started taking this pill and for the first 6 months or so was totally fine. I experienced no emotional side effects and in fact was happier overall since it basically got rid of my PMS. However about 6 months into taking the pill, I began getting TERRIBLE bacterial infections. I would treat them for a week, and about 2-3 days after my antibiotics were up, they'd be back again. My doctor failed to tell me that birth control could have this side effect (and at the time I was on it I would swear that it didn't say anything about infections in the packet.) Anyway, it became too much and I had to call it quits. Now I'm trying Yaz (I'm told that it's less likely to cause infections b/c there's the same amount of hormone in each pill), but I'm a little leery after reading so many terrible reviews... |
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7/12/08 |
3 |
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2 |
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i started the third pack of this pill and started to feel really anxious about everything im not sure if it was the pill that made me feel this way, but i wasnt that way before the pill. I have been off it for about a week and 5 days and i still feel anxious. Does anyone know how long it takes for hormones to get back to noraml? |
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7/8/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
I LOVE this pill. It is my first time on birth control. I'm almost 18 years old and I am almost done with my first month. I have had no major side effects except a loss of appetite. The birth control has actually made me lose about 5 lbs in a month. I love it! |
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6/22/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
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I do not recommend this pill or any pill to anyone after reading what they can really cause. I just recently swichted from Microgestrin to othro tri-cyclen lo and both of them suck, they make me so moody, extremely irrtiable, low sex drive, vaginal dryness, anxiety and very depressed. I have never had a yeast infection in my life and i have had one for 4 months now the doctors have not helped me and do not know what the problem is. I do belive it is the pill, im going to stop taking all birth control pills and just live with using condoms for now until i or a doctor can figure it out. |
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6/22/08 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
the first 3 months were a bit rough. i wont lie. i was angry,depressed,nauseous and tired as hell. but im on my 6th month and it works fine. no breakthrough bleeding. no nauseousness.no fatigue and depression. it also has cleared my skin dramatically. i used to have 3 or 4 pimples a day and now i have 3 or less a month. i dont have horrid cramps anymore and my periods run smoothly. i recommend this pill |
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6/21/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I have been using this pill for over a year, and I do like it. I would only complain that the dark blue pills make me VERY moody, the other three weeks are fine. I get it for $25 @ Planned Parenthood. Short periods, good skin, not too much weight gain and the **** are a plus, lol. But I have noticed some odd clear discharge stuff the whole time I've taken it. And I do go to the doctor for checkups & am in a monagamous relationship, no stds for sure. But lightyears better for me than regular OTC or Yaz, both of those made me bleed and cramp. |
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6/21/08 |
5 |
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3 |
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I've been on this for 4 years as well. No acne, light periods, bigger ****. However in the past year I have noticed a decreased sex drive and moodiness snapping at my boyfriend for no reason too! He almost wanted to get me on bipolar medication! UGH Ortho is reliable but I want to feel like myself again. Suggestions? |
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6/19/08 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
i've been on ortho-lo for about 4 years now, and didn't start having serious side effects until the past year or so. I've never gotten pregnant, but then again, it's hard to when you have NO sex drive at all, it has actually gotten to the point where I try to avoid it with my boyfriend, which has taken its toll on him. I'm upset all the time, I am bloated constantly (I LOVE the gym and being fit, so I'm not lazy and wanting to find a blame), I have HORRIBLE mood swings, I've found myself to be disrespectful to the people i love, i get headaches frequently, I am ALWAYS tired. On the better side: no babies, no acne, big **** (which happened right away), VERY regular and light period. Basically, I think that I have reached my max with ortho-lo and it's time to try something new... |
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6/13/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I took this pill back in 2005-2006 and i LOVED it, that year i lost 15lbs and my period was very regular, i always started on a tuesday. I recently just started taking this pill again and i still love it. i still start my periods on a tuesday, which works cuz it's my day off lol. The first time i tok it, i never got pregnant nor have ever been pregnant. I feel like i've lost some weight on it but we will see after the bloating goes down. I recomend this to anyone, LOOOOOVE it! I do get headaches, but whatever, those go away. Side affects will be different for everyone, so my advice is to try it before you really decide if it doens't work for you. |
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6/11/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I was on this for a couple of years and had no problems. I switched to this after being on regular ortho with bad side effects. My skin seemed pretty clear while i was on it, too (but that could be due to age -now 21- or various facial products). Either way, I loved being on this! The only thing now is it's more expensive with my new insurance, so I just switched to aviane. Either way, I'd give ortho tri-cyclen lo a shot if you don't want to be overwhelmed with hormones, want clearer skin, and less side effects. Oh, plus when i was on it, you could go to their website and get a free compact for the pills with your choice of a design so it didn't look like all the other round packs, which was kind of discreet, so i liked that :) |
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6/10/08 |
3 |
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DO NOT USE ORTHO LO. I was on it for 3 months, i couldn't get off of it fast enough. It made me crazy all the time, i wanted to pull my hair out of my head every minute of every day and i had my period for 2 weeks. my **** hurt and i gained a cup size, i was constantly nauseated...it was awful!!! Thank god things are back to normal now that im not taking it. Yaz is sooo much better. I had absolutely no side effects with yaz it was like i wasn't even taking birth control pills. |
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6/10/08 |
4 |
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2 |
2 |
I have been on this pill for about a year and recently i have been having TERRIBLE mood swings and getting super emotional over nothing at all. This month I have also had terrible anxiety and have gotten in terrible fights with my boyfriend. This pill is ruining our relationship and i cant wait to go off it and be normal again! i would not recommend this pill to anyone! it makes you crazy |
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6/10/08 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
I just started taking this pill and so far so good. I found that Yasmine made me moody and have anxiety and when I was around my period I wanted to eat EVERYTHING! I'm a little concious about my weight and everytime I had my period I thought that I was out of control eating and thought that I was doomed to be overweight. I hope that Tricyclin-lo works for me because i've tried 5 pills now and i'm 21. |
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6/5/08 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
I'm 31 and have had some experience with a few different bc pills. This has been the worse so far. I have terrible headaches. I have no sex drive, but the acne is clearing up. That is really why I take bc, the acne. I have not seen other people complain about headaches, but this is the second time I'm trying this pill and the headaches are back and aweful. |
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5/30/08 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
i just started otcl and it's been pretty good so far. minus being nauseous & the acne the first 2 weeks due to my body getting used to it.. but other than that, it's fine. haven't really noticed weight gain yet but my **** KILL.. they are SO sore it's crazy. it's cheap for me too, so that's good. i used to be on a bc that was $50/mo, which is insane. but now i only spend $18 which is good for me. i hate having to take it everyday, if it wasn't for my cell alarm, i'd forget all the time lol. but other than that, it's fine with me. |
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5/27/08 |
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made me naeusous and my skin super oily. yasmin is much better. |
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5/26/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This is my third attempt at birth control and let me just say that it is the worst! I have been on my period for nearly half a month, and I have never been so moody, depressed, and angry. Albeit my **** have grown in size, but that is NOT worth feeling sluggish, way more sensitive emotionally, COMPLETELY losing my sex drive, the HORRIBLE spotting and disgusting and abnormally long (for me) periods. Bottom Line, after reading all the other women's entries, and knowing that something was up with this pill from the beginning, I am getting off of this immediately and WOULD NOT WISH THIS PILL ON ANYONE. |
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5/22/08 |
5 |
4 |
3 |
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I LOVE THIS PILL! i read a comment that said this pill works differently one everyone which mould make sense...but perhaps this pill works better on the younger generation. I started taking this pill when i was 15 for ovarian cysts...and low and behold it got rid of my acne, i had very little weight gain, and my periods were lighter and not as long. i got off at the age of 17 and had horrible side effects! for one year my skin went crazy and nothing i used helped. this week i decided to get back on it. it was a mistake to get off it and i regret it... but this pill is GREAT for acne...i HIGHLY recommend it! |
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5/22/08 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
I took this pill after being on Desogen. I became depressed (I am normally a VERY happy individual) and it almost ruined my relationship. I also had no sex drive. I was afraid it was me, so I went off of the pill and was myself within two days! I am getting ready to start on Yaz and am hoping it works better! |
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5/20/08 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
NEVER TAKE THIS PILL! i have never been so emotional and had so much anxiety in my entire life.my boyfriend told me if he didnt know that this pill was making me this way he would think there was something is seriously wrong with me.we get in the most rediculous fights and i cry about EVERYTHING.i cant tell you the last time i was honestly happy.also i could care less about whats going on around me and i say whatever i want to whoever i want.i just switched to yaz so we will see how that goes. |
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5/17/08 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
I am 39 and tried this pill because of the lo dosage. I am switching after eeking out the three month trial period. I have had terrible anxiety including chest pain and panic attacks. The first month I had my period for two weeks. The second two months my cycle started during the last week of active pills. Only good things were no weight gain and no pregnancy - but can't deal with the anxiety anymore - it's not in your head ladies - mood problems are a definate side effect of this pill. |
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5/15/08 |
2 |
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4 |
I have taken regular Ortho tricyclen since I was 19/20 yrs old. I'm now 32 and was given the "Lo" version after giving birth last July. to a very large baby and I'm sure my hormones were raging. Women's hormones take a dive after birth but are expected regulate in the months after. After being on this pill from 3 mos. after giving birth I have gone through the worst depression in my entire life. I am not a depressive person. This**** made me suicidal. Granted I had unusual circumstances. At 39 wks. pregnant I had a seizure due to what doctors later found as a brain tumor in my RFL. I've had sucessful surgery and have all of my functions, but the depresson kicked in a month or so later. I have really been struggling with highs and lows, anger, fits of misery and crying even though everything was a success. It wasn't until my best friend told me she had been on "Lo" a few yrs ago and not only got pregnant but had terrible anxiety and anger. Now I know why. Don't take this drug!!! |
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5/11/08 |
5 |
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5 |
5 |
I LOVE THIS PILL!!! its only my second month, and there were some mood swings and bloating the first month but its worth it..my face has never been so clear, and my sex drive has never been so high =] remember ladies it works different for EVERYONE!! so you could have good side effects too!!! |
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5/10/08 |
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After taking this pill for 7 months i got pregnant and i took my pill the same time everyday as directed. The nurse told me several patients taking this pill have gotton pregnant. The problem is the hormones are so low. If you must take this pill use a condom too. I would not trust this pill again! |
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5/8/08 |
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I was on this for seven months and it seemed okay. It made my periods a lot lighter, but they were very irregular. There was a little weight gain also, but it helped clear up acne. I just switched to ortho cyclen for a higher dosage to help regular my periods. |
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5/4/08 |
5 |
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I've been on Ortho Tri-Cylen Lo for almost 5 years now and I'm pretty happy with it. As far as effectiveness goes, I've never gotten pregnant. My skin's stayed relatively clear. I did gain weight when I was first on it, however, I was also going through some unrelated depression and that could possibly be to blame. As soon as I started taking the antidepressant wellbutrin, i shed 28 lbs in less than a year. So I'm going to say it's probably not attributed to the OTC Lo. It's pretty convenient and very discrete with it's compact-type case. I was looking into Loestrin24 because I was interested in a shorter period but I've read so many horror stories about that I figure why mess with something that already works. I'm definitely going to stay on OTC Lo. :) |
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5/3/08 |
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I went on this 4 months ago after losing my baby. I hate hormones and after my first miscarriage I was on Loestrin, which caused me to never have a period, so obviously I hated it. Well now after losing baby #2, I need time, and a NORMAL period. This pill is not doing it. I'm emotional as it is since I was 16 weeks along when I miscarried, and now I am WAAY worse. I am moody, and cry ALL the time. My period lasts 2 1/2 weeks. I'm exhuasted, achy, I have headaches constantly. I can't stand it! But I do not want to get pregnant right away again so I want to stay on something, but I don't do hormones well. I think I'm giving up though. I would rather deal with the terror of possibly losing another baby than deal with the side-effects of this pill any longer! |
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5/1/08 |
5 |
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ive been takin otcl for 2 months and its great as far as not getting pregnant but the mood swings are waaaaay outta wack infact my boyfriend was on the verge of dumping me due to the always moody and out of nowhere fights id pick with him...despite the fact that im always tired and can barely get out of bed but it just seems as if im always angry! I HAVENT really gained any weight but the bloating seems constant and the pain from it |
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4/29/08 |
5 |
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I have been on this pill for 3 years now. It is the first pill I have ever tried. I really like it. I have not had issues with it at all. I think it all depends on your individual physiology. Not everyone is built the same on the inside and it might not be the same with everyone. Our vagina and ovaries are intense things and if this pill doesn't work with them then don't risk it. Get off it and try something new. Don't piss of your Vagina!!! |
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4/29/08 |
5 |
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4 |
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i get this pill for only $10 dollars a month. so its a good value. but i think that i agree w. some of the women on here that it does make you gain weight and get moody. i have gained around ten pounds now and i have been on it for close to a year now. it cleared up any pimples or acne that i had, so that was good. but it didnt help the period cramps, its just made my period more predictable. i get a lot of mood swings and i have depression, but i had that before so im not blaming that on the pill, but i think it has gotten worse since ive been on the pills. i dont really mind the side effects though because i am getting it for cheap and im not pregnant, which is the bottom line :] |
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4/24/08 |
4 |
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i've gained 15 lbs and am now a 36DD!!! i am sad one minute and then happy the next. but at least i am not pregnant. it's better than depo that's all i can say!!! |
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4/24/08 |
5 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
I hate this pill!!!! I am switching it ASAP... I have the worst mood swings ever, they come out of nowhere. My bf has recently said im more moody and pissed off than I am happy which really sucks. I pick the most random fights with him its ridiculous (I think he might even be ready to break up because of the mood swings). When im not on the pill im always happy, and laughing and ready to do nething, but now im just tired and pissed all the time. I've only been on it for two months, but I was on it for about 6 months last year and decided to switch then too. I have had weight gain, im always bloated, and ive been getting the worst cramps ever the day before my period. The only good thing is that I didnt get pregnant and that my face cleared up compared to Yaz (which sucks also). Overall, I will probably not take this pill again and suggest strongly against it. |
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4/24/08 |
3 |
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i have been on otc lo for a week now and i got my period after 4 days !? has this happend to anyone.. it is also not helping with my horrid bloating pain which made me go on BC in the first place. i have tried loestrin and yaz which helped with my pms but made me break out which is why i had to stop them .. so far my skin has clearing from what YAZ caused .. but i cant take this bloating pain!!! anyone have any suggestions?? should i stick with it? also i am nervous that i see alot of wight gain side effects posted here? i have not gained any weight from previous pills so im scared i will on OTC LO .. |
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4/24/08 |
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Im stil in my first month taking OTCL, but i LOVE IT! i get it for $10 a month through my college pharmacy, and ive had no side effects. my acne cleared up, and im less hungry which is good! i love it! |
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4/23/08 |
5 |
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5 |
5 |
I started on OTC-L 4 months ago, the first month i noticed my body adjusting to the pill (this is my first time on BC, also im 20 if that matters?)anyhow, i did get my period during the placebo pills even on the first month which i thought was great, and everymonth there after is has come when scheduled. I no have no side effects, never really did, haven't gotten any acne, and haven't gained weight. The only thing i hate is that it's57.00 a month, but its deff worth it! I would say at least stay on it for 3-4 months and try and let your body get adjusted, and if its not working for you then ofcourse speak with your doctor. Hope this helps. |
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4/21/08 |
5 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
ive been on ortho tri cyclen lo for about 2 months and i must say that the only side effect ive noticed is swollen/painful ****. im 22 years old & never been on birth control before. before, my periods were really out of whack & now they are regular. my skin is somewhat better & ive definitly noticed that my moods have been better - way less anger & explosive moments which i had all the time before taking this pill. i plan to stay on it, even thou it is expensive with no insurance. i find it a bit difficult to remember taking the pill at the same exact time every day - im always an hour or so off, but have never missed a pill so far. |
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4/18/08 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
I just started taking this pill. I havent takin any BC for about 5 months before it and I have used it in the past. Anyways, right away, I have been having suicidal thought and theres nothing rong with my life. My life is perfect right now but yet im always depressed and I get annoyed and mad at everyone. I dont know if its the pill or not, either way im saying screw BC. Another thing i found that as soon as i started this pill i got really bad acne. My face wasnt 100% clear before but now its pretty bad. Still not 100% blaming the pill |
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4/16/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
I loved this pill for 2 years -- I felt great, lost five pounds which stayed off and I never have had that happen without dieting before, it increased my sex drive and I would love to still be on it but there are 2 problems--45.00 a pack!!! Also, I would forget to take it at the same time daily and I had eventual bleeding--but that is true of any oral contraceptive. I was on it for fertility--not birth control. |
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4/14/08 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
BOTTOM LINE: YOU HAVE TO TAKE THIS PILL AT THE SAME EXACT TIME EVERY SINGLE DAY OR YOU ARE GONNA HAVE ALL KINDA OF PROBLEMS. I've been on this pill for 2 1/2 years. My moods haven't changed at all. My sex drive has not decreased and I have NO problem with lubrication. My periods are regular and predictable. The only time my periods last longer than they should is if I screw up and don't take the pill at the same time every day. I have absolutely no side effects except I NEVER get any type of acne, not even a pimple anymore. Basically, if y'all are having problems, you are probably not taking your pill at the same time daily, or the problems may be IN YOUR HEAD!!! |
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4/13/08 |
5 |
2 |
4 |
5 |
I've been taking ortho tri cyclen lo for about 6 months. The first 3 months were great, and then after that I gained 10 pounds!! I HATE THAT. I'm looking into the non-hormone IUD, but this pill seems to be well for A LOT of women. I would definitely recommend it, I just don't like taking hormones very much. If you have a good memory and scheduling skills the convenience is not bad, the value is well ($35 a month from Planned Parenthood) and I haven't gotten pregnant yet haha. My sex drive hasn't gone down, I just honestly can't get as "lubricated" as I used to haha. I recommend it. |
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4/13/08 |
4 |
2 |
4 |
3 |
I took Orhto regular for about 7 yrs and swithched to Ortho lo and lost much weight and appetite. I liked the way I looked before so I wasnt to happy with that part.My sex drive is basically non existant which is tough when you are a newlywed. I was also pretty depressed on it as well. I never got pregnant on this pill either so it is effective. I have been off this pill for over a yr and have been taking herbal meds to repair the damage. My sex drive has slightly improved and I no longer have depression. Be careful things dont just get better when you stop the pill. |
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4/4/08 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
I'm not too big on the pill, or shot. However, this is a good form of protection when you are sexually active. I took OTCL when I was 21. I noticed I was nausious within the 1st 3 wks of taking it. But it tricks your body into thinking you're pregnant so that was expected. My libido was fine, but my 1st partner/BF was terrible (no rythm, no stamina, foul breath-lol) so I could never get hot around him. So I can't blame it on the pill, he sucked. I didn't notice major changes in my acne until I went off of the pill. I went off of the pill about four months after I fired my BF (was only on it for a year). I have always been moody, and the pill didn't make me feel horrible. After I quit using the OTCL, my acne came back big time. No sugar 4 me= no acne (it's hard, but it works-it's all abt what u eat). My acne wasn't too bad before I was on the pill, but for some people sugar triggers acne. If I go on this pill again, I will eliminate the sugar pill. |
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4/4/08 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
The first birth control pill I tried was Ortho Tricyclen and I did fine on it, despite the complete loss of sex drive. Ive also tried Loestrin which I loved! But I cant get it anymore. Microgestin made me nauseous with bad cramps and my **** got bigger. I had breakthrough bleeding with Levora, and I had no period for months and months on Ortho Novum. I had migraine headaches on Lutera. I can deal with some side effects but I cant deal with migraine headaches! Im a firm believer that you shouldnt let your emotions control you. Everyone can control thier own emotions with discipline. Any weight gain or crazziness I experienced was due to my own laziness or stress or the fact that Im a woman, not the birth control pills. Now my doctor put me on Ortho Tricyclen Lo because its one of the lowest dose hormone birth control pills on the market, and its suppossed to have less side effects. I hope this pill works for me. Im excited to try it! If it works for me I will post a positive response. |
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4/2/08 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
This was the 1st birth control pill that I tried and had to switch from it. I took it for a year & even took it as perfectly as possible.(I had a pill alarm so I took it at the exact same time daily) It started well. The 1st month was a bit rough as I did experience some mild side effects but they went away by the end of the 2nd month. Then a few months later I started to notice a few things. My periods started to get worse and I would get progressively moodier as the month went on and the hormone level went up. It would get to the point where on the 3rd week I was a mess; alternating between crying for no reason, extremely angry, and raging nympho. The pill amplified all of my moods. It would get worse every week & the change was so drastic that my friends could even guess what color pill week it was. When I went into my doctor at the end of the year I was a depressed mess and asked to switch. She gave me a mono-cyclic pill and I'm doing much better and have stuck to that one. |
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4/1/08 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
I got this pill form Planned Parenthood. The price was not bad for me..$10 a month. I've been using this pill since Feb. I have not really had any problems with it at all. This is the first birth control that I have been taking. Everyone is different and needs to try out different pills until they can chose which one makes them feel the best. I got lucky and I only needed to try one brand (Ortho try-cyclen lo) and I really have had no problems. I get my period on the 4th green pill. I wish it would come on the first or second so I don't need to worry for an extra day or so about if I'm pregnant or not. |
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3/30/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I took this pill for 7 yrs, i had no problems at all, i switched to this one because it has lower hormones than others and helped my mood, There are a few side effects that just come with birth control but it's nothing i'd complain about. |
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3/30/08 |
4 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
This pill is probably extremely effective for some girls. I've only taken it a week, however, around day 4 I started becoming extremely emotional for no reason whatsoever. While I was crying, I was basically saying to myself "What the heck? This isn't you? Why are you crying cause there's nothing to cry about!" Then by day 6, I spent the whole weekend crying FOR NO REASON, and by the end of the day, I started becoming depressed and thinking suicidal thoughts. The last time I cried that hard was when my pet rabbit died. Tonight I'm totally not taking the pill, it's not worth it. |
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3/30/08 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
i have been taking ortho lo for about 5 months now and i lkie it for the most part. i do feel bloated at times and i have been having some major mood swings but for the price it is worth it. |
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3/27/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I was on OTCL for 2 and a half years. Recently, I got a cyst on my ovary and my doctor said maybe it wasn't strong enough so she switched me to Loestrin 24 Fe. The first month of this new pill was wonderful, but now, I'm in my second month and missed a period. Most women like not having a period, but to me it is abnormal and I HATE not knowing when or if I'm going to get it. With OTCL I could always pinpoint EXACTLY what day I would get my period, 10 years ahead of time if I wanted. I loved how my periods were so regular with absolutely ZERO side effects. It didn't make my period any lighter but I just loved knowing WHEN I would get it. I would definitely recommend OTCL to anyone and I really want to switch back stat. |
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3/26/08 |
3 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
I took this birth control for nearly 5 years when about 9 months ago I started to become very depressed. The week before my period and the week of would be terrible. Constant crying, depression, mood swings. I had no idea what was happening to me. I just thought, maybe I am just going through a hard time right now and I am suppose to be unhappy, surely things will get better. Well, they finally did.. when I stopped my birth control. I went to the doctor and talked with her about my depression. I switched to Yaz and the only thing I am angry about is that I did not do it sooner. I want to warn other girls about this because it is a serious side effect and no one should have to go through it. I will never use that pill again, nor would I reccomend it for anyone. |
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3/26/08 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
I personally have not been on this pill but I know WAY too many people who have gotten pregnant while taking it. Just a heads up. |
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3/25/08 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
this is my first time on the pill and i just started taking ortho tri cyclen lo about 2 and a half weeks ago..so far i've had no side affects except acne. i never had really awful acne but i was hoping it would help make my face a lot more clear..did anyone else have this problem within the first few weeks? do you think the acne will go away once my body gets adjusted since it has only been 2 about 2 weeks? |
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3/24/08 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
I see a lot of horror stories on here, so I thought I should mention that it really has worked well for me. I'm only a teenager and finishing my first month, so maybe things will change, but I've had very few side effects. I do think I may have picked up a few pounds on the belly or hips, and my **** may have grown a bit but its hard to tell since I'm still growing anyway. My first couple days were pretty upsetting with cramps, headaches and some nausea but it eased up fairly quickly. However, I have had light breakthrough bleeding for about a week, during the dark blue pill cycle. Has anyone else had this? I just wanted to share that girls, especially younger ones should really give this a chance because of the low dosage and I honestly think its the best option for me. |
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3/23/08 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I was on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for 2 years before I decided I wanted to try something new. I never had any problem with OTCL. I never got pregnant (biggest perk, really), I didn't gain weight, I didn't have any side effects in general (moody during my period, but I'd say that's normal!)...all in all it was good. The only let down was I would have my period for 5 days rather than the 3 I heard everyone else got. I thought it might be cool to try Seasonale and only have my period 4 times a year. HORRIBLE IDEA!! I hate this new birth control I'm on and once this month is finished, I plan to switch back to OTCL immediately!!!!! I'd recommend this pill, hands down. |
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3/20/08 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
I hate this pill. I've only been on it for about a month and a half but I already want to switch to something else (but I don't know what because other birth control pills are more expensive than what I buy OTCL for). My mood swings are worst than ever and I get really depressed. I get sick of EVERYONE: family, friends, my BF. My BF hates this pill because I've become EXTRA sensitive about anything and everything; he wants me to stop taking them too. In fact, he said he'd pay me to get off of them. The only good news is that my periods have become lighter (and they were light in the first place so this is super awesome) and my face has cleared a little. But these positives do not outway the negatives. I was reading another post where a girl said she started taking the pills at night and it became better. Can anyone else attest to this? If so, I'll give OTCL another shot. |
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3/19/08 |
3 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
I have been on otcl for about a month and a half. I went on it due to the fact that I get severe menstrual cramps, horrible enough that I have had to go to the emergency room in the past. The first month I didn't get any cramps!!! I didn't get irritable, moody, or depressed as I usually do before my period. However, the first couple of days, I woke up with horrible nausea. The worst side affect has been the acne! I read that this is suppose to help with your skin. I didn't have skin problems prior to this. I have developed these huge, underground zits-the kind that are painful. This is my first time on birth control. Does anyone know about this. I like not having cramps, or pmsing, I can deal with the nausea, but not the acne!!! |
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3/18/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
I have been on OTCL for 6 years I think, pretty much started when it came out and I switched from OTC. I have had pretty much no side effects, except positive ones - I get very little acne, my periods are a lot shorter, lighter, and less painful. I like that I know I am getting a very low dose of medication. I have been sexually active since I was 15 and both OTC and OTCL have worked beautifully for their main purpose - preventing pregnancy. Overall I recommend this for anyone who wants to go on the pill. |
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3/17/08 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
I just started my 4th pack of this pill and decided today to throw the rest away. Last month I had my period for 2 1/2 weeks and I am now realizing that it is making me crazy!! It seems to give me anxiety (makes my mind race) and it also makes me really moody. I thought it was just me until I realized how good (and normal) I felt last week when I was on the sugar pills. I started a new pack yesterday and sure enough, within hours the "craziness" returned. After coming across this site, I realize it probably is definitely this pill that is affecting me, and it is just not worth it!! |
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3/16/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I started taking this to skip my period because my husbands R&R leave fell within the first week of my period. Not only did the product not work for that, it has extended my period. I am now on day 12 of my period. My husband is only here for 15 days and I am in hell! I hate this drug. Don't use it unless you like bleeding all day every day. |
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3/15/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This pill is horrible! I have never had mood swings like this in my life. It was the scariest thing ever, I was extremely depressed, constantly had thoughts of wanting to die, would ALWAYS argue with my bf scream at him, and even hit him! Even my bf asked me to stop taking the pill. I cry over anything and I was NOT like this before I got on this pill. However, I was on it for 2 years. I did not notice any major problems with it the first half of the year. But that changed! I have been off of it now for 5 months and it took while for my body to get back to normal but THANK GOD it did!! I know bc is different on everyone but I would not reccomend even trying this one, or do not wait to get off of it like i did! |
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3/13/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
!!PLEASE READ!! I tried taking this pill about 2 years ago and I got sick all the time, I always took it in the morning with my breakfast and by the time I got to work I just felt terrible and it normally lasted 4-6 hours, so I stopped taking it after a month. I tried going on Yaz and that stuff was the WORST ever. Anyway, I thought I would try Ortho Lo again, so I told my doctor about the symptoms I was having, and she recommend I take the pill at night before I go to bed with no food, only a glass of water, and this helped TONS! I have had NO side effects at all and I have now been on it for 3 months and I feel great, my periods are super light and I never have cramping and it's helped my acne A LOT. I know pills work differently for everyone, but if you take it in the morning, try taking it at night, it helped me a lot, I know that's the reason I am not having any problems with it now. I couldn't be happier. |
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3/13/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
My ob/gyn just gave me 3 months wort of this bcp and I ONLY TOOK IT FOR 5 DAYS! It was horrible! It made me very sick with nausea and vomiting that made my stomach painfully sore. I also had severe headaches, low fever, couldn't get comfortable, couldn't stand up for more than 5 minutes. My BF was scared to even go to work because I was feeling so bad. I went to see my ob/gyn again to do more test to figure out what was causing my initial problem and it turned out to be a cyst and he asked me to keep taking it. It's the second day after I stopped taking it and my stomach is still so sore that I cannot fully walk upright, or laugh much. I was given to me as a possible help for something else but it just made me feel 10 times worse! |
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3/11/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
HORRIBLE! Im warning you DO NOT take it. It makes you completely psycho and I was constantly screaming and literally hitting my bf!! I would constantly cry over nothing and I am NEVER happy and so annoyed with my bf when he tries to be nice! DO NO TAKE IT. |
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3/10/08 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
I have to agreed that this pill is different for everyone. I've been on Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo for almost 4 years. I got it free at my university and the first 3 years was good. Sometimes I was moody, but I think that is normal. So my 3rd year going to my 4th year I experience yeast infection at least 5-6 times, but I think the pill play a small role because i was stress and I just switch jobs. However, I recently noticed i was really moody because I would get really depressed, angry and sad at my BF. So, i'm not sure if i want to blame the pill 100% because i think other factors come into play with your psycho mood swing (stress over work, fighting with bf etc..). Alot of people here complain about dry skin and no sex drive. I don't have that problem, my skin is clear and smooth ( i take good care of my skin)and my sex is really good. I mean i have sex when i see my bf and it's great. So, it all depends on your body. I suggest you give it a try because it might work for you or not. |
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3/9/08 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
I have been on ortho-tri lo for a month and have gained 8 pounds and my **** are tender and painful. I have had to go up a bra size and I am gaining weight in my waste area. It is not worth it if you ask me. Also, my acne has stayed the same. |
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3/6/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
I started 9 yrs. ago on Ortho tri-Cyclen, switched to the generic brand to save $, now (last 6 months) I've been taking OTCL. I have been moody more than not, but I thought it was because people were just irretating. Maybe it is a side effect. Besides that, my periods are very accurate and light...and I've never been pregnant. |
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3/5/08 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
I was on this pill for a year and I kept trying to ignore the side effects or to link them to something else but this pill was the common denominator. In terms of effectiveness, it was great: it was our only contraceptive and I haven't gotten pregnant and my periods were always pretty short and very normal. I won't associate weight gain with this pill since it's probably my own fault and I guess my skin got clearer.... but omg the mood swings!!! I was half the person I had been and I have yet to figure out how my bf dealt with me! I'm not a cryer and i would become hysterical and very depressed. I had thought that it was life changes, etc, but I've just started a new pill (which I haven't been on long enough to rate - - side note: how can you really rate a pill if you've been on it for less than 2 months people?! give it a chance) and everyone has noticed a huge difference in personality. Also, without insurance it's EXPENSIVE! I know bc effects everyone diff but this was noteworthy! |
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3/3/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I used to be on Alese, but my Gyno changed me to OTCL because I had break through bleeding with Alese. But with OTCL, I have HEAVY periods-- so heavy that I need a MAXIMUM absorbancy pad while using a SUPER absorbancy tampon! I swear I'm leaking buckets of blood each month!! I get horrible cramps and my period last for 7+ days ever since OTCL. My Gyno is switching me to Femcon FE as soon as I am done with my OTCL dose!!!! I hope it works better :-/ |
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3/2/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
This has been such a liberator for me. I started taking this pill because I had acne, after 2 months I no longer was getting severe pimples, my period has been short, light, and painless. My sex drive is a bit weaker than usual, but it kinda makes me think clearly which is important being only a teen. I like this drug because it's a weak dose, but one thing I've notice is my breast have been tender on the dark blue doses. I've now been on this pill 5 months, and I've gone up a bra cup size, which is something my friend who also takes it noticed. My doctor says it's important to take it the same time every day if I am sexually active because as I said before it's a low dose. |
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2/27/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I absolutely LOVE this pill. i've been on this pill for 3 months now. I haven't really noticed any side effects, except the dark blue pills (the last week of active pills) make me a little moody. I get this pill for $25.00 a month, which is not so bad because I am a college student. I haven't gained any weight, but I had lost 4 lbs since December. My periods have cramping, but I think that's because my body isn't used to the drug just yet. |
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2/27/08 |
4 |
1 |
4 |
4 |
This pill has caused my acne to get WORSE!!!!!! It does help to regulate my periods and alleviate my cramps. Still it is not worth it. I would rather have cramps than to look like I am going through puberty again! |
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2/24/08 |
3 |
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2 |
Made me gain 10lbs!! I eat very healthy and work out daily, I'm only 4'11 so you can definitely see the weight!!! Also I have no sex drive at all. I dont even want to think about it. I am also emotional and angry and tired all the time. I was never like this before taking this pill. |
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2/24/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This contraceptive is not for everybody. Since i started taking those I've had severe headaches, mood swings. I've read the comments people leave and didn't see anyone complaining about numbness. At the end of my first pack I started feeling dizzy and got numb in my face, legs and arms. I felt like I'm not normal I went to my gynocologist and he said that those pills should not give side effects like this. That never happened before so I know it's this contraceptive. Didn't like it, would never take it again. |
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2/22/08 |
5 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
I've been on OTCL for 1.5 years and I haven't had any side effects... my acne cleared and it's been great so far. I havent had any spotting or moodiness or extended periods. The only problem is that it's VERY expensive.. it costs me $45 a month. I really want to switch to something cheaper but I'm scared to try something else because OTCL hasn't given me any problems. |
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2/20/08 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
i have just finished my first...and last pack of OTL. My boyfriend and i fought so much more often since i have been on it...and when i think about it...it is probably b/c i'm moody. other than the moodiness.. i was fine physically until my period came on. Usually, I have a period for 5 days with cramping in the first 2 days. However, since i have been on OTL, i have been on my period for seven straight "medium" days with severe cramps. I have not had cramps like this since i first started my period 8 years ago. im done with it |
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2/19/08 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
1 |
I have been taking this pill for over 5 years and before that it was the regular dose ortho tri-cyclen. I've never had any problems other than depression and sleepness (which may be caused by the generic Zoloft.) I don't credit any of my gradual weight gain to this pill and never had any heavy bleeding or cramps. The bad part is my insurance doesn't pay for oral contraceptives so this cause over $50 at the pharmacy. So I have to go the Planned Parenthood clinic where it still costs over $25!!! I want a $4 generic version now! |
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2/18/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
Stopped taking after 6 months. This pill just made me feel rotten. Side effects included gaining 20lbs, gastrointestinal malfunction and some sort of anxiety/depression. Did I mention the major gas/burping? The only positive aspect of this drug is that your skin looks fabulous. |
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2/18/08 |
4 |
1 |
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2 |
I am currently in my 3rd week of taking Ortho Tricyclen lo and I'm feeling completely wretched. I have a history of depression - mainly due to my thyroid disorder. But before taking this pill, my depression has been pretty much non-existent. Now, I am a maniac - crying constantly, severely irritable and EXHAUSTED, and I have been spotting so much for the past week...It is almost as if I have my period right now. Also, I have pain during sex, and now seems as though I have some sort of yeast infection. I know it is only the 1st month, but I have taken Yasmine in the past and haven't experienced any symptons like this. I am also experiencing cramps and eating like a madwoman. i have gained some weight, which is good for me, because my thyroid condition has made me lose 30 lbs in the past. My question is, has anyone else gotten vaginal infections from this pill? PLease let me know! |
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2/18/08 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
I was on Lo for a year before I switched. I would vomit violently the next day after I took the pill for about 3 months before it stopped. I became a totally different person and had severe, very uncharacteristic mood swings and I experienced slight depression. After a few months I started to get severe migraines with aura, which I'd never had before in my life. I ended up having to stop taking the pill because I was at a severe risk for blood clots and strokes! I am only 20 and I don't smoke. I only gained a little weight and lost it pretty easily. |
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2/13/08 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
Okay, so this is my 2nd birth control pill ( I was on femcon the chewable pill) Ive just recently started taking bc Over the last 4 months and ever since OTLO Im a completley different person!! My mood swings are so severe that I feel bipolar...My Poor b/f has been dealing with this for 3 months now and frankly Im surprised he hasnt left me. One minute Im fine.The next Im crying, then feeling violent like I want to throw something or hit someone!! Im not over exagerating although it may sound like it! Also..when I was on my first 2 packs, I completley skipped my period for 2 months and when I finally got it my bleeding and cramps were so severe that I was passing uterine tissue and had to go to the GYNO. They told me it was because I had skipped for 2 months and that it was normal when first starting BC..Im so unhappy and anxious all the time. My breast are always tender...THIS PILL SUX. Im glad for those who have had good luck but I'm not one of them. Ne suggestions for a better pill? |
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2/12/08 |
5 |
4 |
3 |
5 |
I started taking this pill a year and a half ago, first year of university. Everything was fine, I had no side effects, except a little weight gain, but that could also be attributed to my lazy lifestyle at that time. In the past 8 months, I've started noticing CRAZY mood changes, cramps, and yeast infections. I've had 3 already, and they always came right before my period. I went to my doctor and asked her if the pills cause it, and she said no (she's dumb). Every accredited website I went on said that it can be caused by fluctuating hormone levels. Also, I was hoping to gain some weight in my ****, but no, not even 1/2 cup. |
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2/12/08 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
It works but I'm trying to find a better pill. I'm not sure if my moodiness is related to this pill, I have found it to be more of a problem on other pills (especially mercet). With OTCL I have terrible cramps and have gained weight. I have experimented with different pills and this is the only one I've gained significant weight on. I have lost it everytime I've gone off the pill or switched brands. Within 1-2 months I've gained 10-15 lbs but usually loose it soon after stopping. Too bad it has taken so long for me to figure this out! |
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2/10/08 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is the first birth control pill I have ever taken. I had absolutely no side effects when I began the pill and was receiving it for a very low price from my school pharmacy. When I went home for the summer the price was about $50, which was a nasty shock for a student and I did have to find an alternative way of paying for it through a state program.
I've found it hard to remember to take the pill everyday, and as a result have had to take multiple pills a day for a couple of days and had a terrible reaction; I became very sick and lost 10 pounds of water weight in one weekend.
Last month, I forgot to refill my prescription and have been off the pill since. I am reluctant to mention this, but I feel a lot happier since being off the pill, but don't know if they're related because I have suffered minor depression before taking the pull. It is enough hope for me to not want to start taking the pill again, though. |
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2/8/08 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
I have been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo off and on for 5 years now. When I first started taking it I gained 15 lbs. I went off of it and lost 10 lbs. am now back on and have gained 20! I also have very bad mood swings and it may be due to how the drug dispenses different hormone levels every week. I am switching to Yaz starting next month as the hormone level in that drug remains constant and it also contains a diuretic. Hopefully this will help! |
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1/28/08 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
I have been on OTCL for a couple years now. I have been keeping track of they way feel throughout the 4 wks of the cycle and I notice the 1st week I am in a great mood, have a high sex drive, no crazy food craviings and am happy with my weight. The 2nd week is pretty much the same as the first week but but I notice my mood changing a little and I start craving sugar. The 3rd week, I start feeling depressed, craving junk food and start losing my sex drive. By the 4th week(period week) I am depressed, gained 10 lbs. and don't want to even think about sex. Once my period ends then the whole cycle starts over and I lose the 10lbs I gained and start feeling happy again. I recomend keeping track and seeing if it affects you the same way. |
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1/28/08 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I have been on Ortho Lo for 2 years and it has made me go crazy!! I stayed on it hoping something would change but it only gets worse! Ive always had mood swings, but NOTHING like this. And I also completely lost my sex drive. I'm glad to know im not the only one! Not to mention I have gained 20 pounds. |
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1/27/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
I had my Mirena taken out last month b/c of horrible acne and absolutely NO libido. I'm at the end of my first month on OTC Lo and am loving it!! I was nervous to start it after reading these reviews, but had 4 months of samples, so I went with it. My libido is back in a big way, my face cleared up immediately, and I haven't been as moody as with Mirena. I took regular Ortho Tri Cyclen for 5 years with no problems before having kids, so I guess I just respond better to birth control with Estrogen. Everyone is different, but this pill is working great for me!! |
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1/22/08 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
I took Ortho Lo for about 3 weeks and it was horrible - I didn't have mood swings, I literally became bi-polar and had thoughts of cutting myself. It was one of the scariest things I've ever felt; even my boyfriend asked me to stop taking it because he was scared I'd hurt myself. Perhaps if I stayed on it longer my body would have become more adjusted to it, but I wanted to stay on the safe side. I'd been on other BCPs before but never had the feelings I had when I was on Ortho Lo. I have plenty of friends who swear by Ortho Lo but my suggestion is to take with caution. |
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1/17/08 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I had no side effects at all, except the fact that I've been getting yeast infections since I started taking this drug!! I don't have sex enough for that to be worth it, and if I keep getting yeast infections I'm not even going to want any sex. Other wise, the pill is fine **** control wise, but not worth dealing with constant yeast infections. |
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1/16/08 |
4 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
I've been on the birth control pill for over 10 years. I switched from Ortho Cyclen to this pill because of it's low dose. It's bene horrible. I get TWO periods per month that are very heavy. I have severe cramping also which wasn't present at all on any other pills. There are only a few days a month when I don't have bleeding or cramps. Really unpleasant. |
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1/16/08 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I switch to OTC Lo because my first kind was making me vomit and giving me severe headaches. Although I didn't have any of those side effects, OTC Lo really lowered my sex drive and my periods seemed to be heavier than they were before I was ever on the pill. Aside from that, no major problems. I am switching again because I want my libido back. |
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1/16/08 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
1 |
This pill is great! After I had my first child the normal strength was making me nauseous so my doctor changed me to Lo. I did notice that I had some very minor cramps as opposed to the normal does but it was a lot better than not taking the pill (I take the pill because my period is so bad that I am incapacitated during it due to bad cramps and extremely heavy bleeding). The only bad thing about this pill is how much it costs! I can't afford it any more so I have to deal with the cramps and heavy bleeding. If the price was lower I would be back on it in a heart beat! |
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1/14/08 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
OH my I've been taking this pill for 5 months now. I had no idea a pill could cause these problems. It just dawned on me what was going on was the PILLS fault. First of all the cramps are terrible. I hadn't had cramps since before I had kids. Which was 7 years ago. And the bleeding is heavy. I have terrible headaches. I'm always moody so I don't notice a differnce there but as far as sex goes I was thinking I should have been a nun. I have no lubercation and no desire to have sex. It has been a problem for us but since hearing online that I'm not the only one I have hope. |
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1/12/08 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
3 |
i've been on this pill for about 4 months now. at first i had horrible mood swings, i wouldnt want to get out of bed and i was constantly grumpy. but now that my body is used to it i can say that i am very pleased with this pill. its the first pill that i have ever been on (i am 21) and i wouldnt want to change. as for the weight gain (i gained 5lbs, but thats because it was the holidays). i'm ocassionaly irritant in the mornings. the sex drive is still at top noch, and some say that it reduces the lubrication down there, its no problem at all for me. i must also add that my acne cleared up a bit, and i dont get SEVERE cramps anymore! i say two thumbs up for this pill! |
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1/8/08 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
Been on OTC Lo for 1.5 years now. 1st month was horrible as my body was getting used to the drug. I had frequent mood swings where I would get bitter, angry, frustrated, & annoyed with almost anything. Second month and onward, I was fine and back to my normal happy and content self. After about 5-6 months of taking the pill, I briefly stopped for a month, and went back on. While off the pill, I became extremely moody. I would cry at commercials. When I went back on, I experienced the same crankiness as the 1st month but have been fine until the 5th month when I became depressed. I'm not sure why I'm experiencing these emotions now (maybe bc I kept missing a couple doses in between months) but I lacked a sex drive, motivation, & happiness. I cried more, complained more. But I think it's just because I haven't been taking it on time everyday since I never had such problems in the previous months. I suggest this drug if you're truly committed to being on time (as with most drugs). |
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1/8/08 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
I took this pill to prevent preg. I have been on it for 5 months. First month was fine. Ever since the second month, I have had problems with yeast, moodiness, emotional rollarcoaster, kidney and bladder problems majorly!! Now that I stopped the pill, all problems have ceased. Take this pill with Caution! |
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1/8/08 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
I've been on OTCL for a little over 4 years now. The pill has some side effects, like mood swings, and migranes and stuff, but you also have to take in considerationyour environment. The first couple of months on the pill I was happy, I never gained weight, I actually lost weight, and had no ACNE. I was happy, specially since I just started dating my bf. But as time passed, i see me and my bff would argue a lot and I would cry for nooooooooo reason. My stress level has gone up, because of work, school, and relationship, so I"m not blaming OTCL for all the mood swings. I didn't gain weight, I actualyl lost like 15 lbs, and I have no more break outs. I do get some sun spots though on my face when i've been out in the sun for too long. Over all it's a good pill, it's deff better than DEpo Vera which I took for a year, and bled almost the whole time. But your SEX DRIVE does go DOWN extremely........... but again it depends on the person, and thier body type. |
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1/8/08 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
I didn't even finish my first pack of otcl.. i mean i was always nausea, always lightheaded and dizzy, i didn't want sex anymore... i mean i was miserable.. i was all down for birth control but i think i will jus stick to condoms i mean i rather not take the pill than feel like ****.... |
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1/2/08 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
I don't want to scare anyone too bad! I was on OTCL for about four years or so. It was great! lighter periods, no cramps, mood swings, acne... I can't say anything bad. My health insurance ran out so I discontinued using it. Now I have seizures about once a month. They happen right before my period every month. The worst part is that I still don't have insurance! I have seen many different neurologists, gynecologists, and have had extensive testing done. They can't figure out why this is happening. They haven't said that this is because of the birth control, but they haven't said that it isn't. We are still trying to figure it out. It has been over two years. No job, drivers license, or insurance. |
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12/28/07 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
great pill considering no nausea (was on it for a year) but gave me mood swings. i eventually learned to control them though but used to lash out on my boyfriend. pill killed sex drive though after a year being on it :( |
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12/27/07 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
Personally, birth control sucks. I have been on Yasmin, Ortho-Tricyclen Lo and some other kind I can't even remember and all of them made me miserable. Absolutely no sex drive whatsoever. I wanted sex everyday, all day before birth control and now I'm lucky if I'm feeling like getting it on once a month! How ridiculous. My cramping is worse! Acne... let's not even go there. Thank God for ProActive. I'm as fat as a cow! I've gained 20 pounds!!! And, I exercise everyday! So, I don't want anyone saying I'm just blaming the pill because it's seriously the reason I've gained! Thanks to the pill, I'm pretty much bipolar. Joy. I'm not going to say I've never been sad in my life but ever since I started birth control it's been more then I can handle. I wish I could say something positive but I really can't. Condoms may not be your preferred method because God knows it's not mine but it might just be the best way to go. If my doctor can't talk me into another method besides that, condoms it is. |
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12/18/07 |
3 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
I was on this BC for 2 years and did not like it one bit. I stayed on it for so long becasue I thought that was what all birth controls did, until I switched and realized there are better bc's out there. IT gave me major mood swings, my stomach was always bloated, but I was never hungry and kept retaining water. Every bc is different but if this happens to you be cautious. |
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12/17/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I've been on OTC Lo for a little more than 5 years and regular OTC before that. OTC helped clear my complextion and even after years of taking the pill I was able to get pregnant immediately after stopping use. Which was a great thing! I just stopped taking OTC Lo about 5 months ago and my period is irregular (too frequent). I'm not sure if that's due to OTC Lo or not but I'm just putting it out there. Also a suggestion for those complaining of nausea (I've never had that side effect but it was an issue with my prenatal vitamins). I'd suggest taking the pill at night before going to sleep instead of during the day. |
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12/15/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I can't complain about this drug other than being over priced. In the first couple of months, my cramps, bloating and the bleeding was about the same as normal and by the third month was great. I've been on this for over 2 years and can't say I've had any of the side effects that were mentioned. My emotions actually feel more on track then before. Before I was on this, PMS would alter my personality alot. I would be irrititable and hyper sensitive. Now, while I do experience I tiny bit of PMS symptoms, this pill has made my life more enjoyable... and I am actually able to be active while I have my period, as opposed to before, when the cramps were so intolerable I was in bed crying from the pain. I'm sooo thankfu l for being on this pill. And I DO RECOMMEND it to others as well. |
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12/14/07 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
DO NOT TAKE THIS DRUG! I was taking this medication for for 5 months and I developed blood clots in my leg and lung as a direct result of this pill. I am a healthy, in my 20s, and dont smoke, there was no other reason for me to develop blood clots other than this pill. Serious side effects like this are more common than pill manufacturers or even doctors lead you to think. After this happened to me I learned that this also happened to a woman in my church, and the nurses at the hospital told me they see about one case of this a month. Do your research before you take any birth control pill, and take the risks seriously. Aside from the blood clots I also experienced mood swings and feelings of depression while taking this pill. In my opinion its just not worth the health risk to use any birth control pills. Condoms may not be the most effective or favorable method, but at least I know it wont affect my mental or physical well being. |
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11/15/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
I AM CURRENTLY ON MY SECOND MONTH OF OTCL AND HAVE A HAD SEVERAL SIDE EFFECTS. MY EMOTIONAL LEVEL GOES FROM EXTREMELY FRUSTRATED AND MEAN TO CRYING FROM A CAR COMMERICAL. MY MOOD SWITCHES IN A SECOND. MY USUALLY HIGH SEX DRIVE IS NON EXSISTENT NOW! THE WORST PART IS THE SORENESS IN MY ****-WHEN IM NOT WEARING A BRA I HAVE TO LITERALLY HOLD ON TO MY CHEST WHEN I WALK, IT HURTS SO MUCH. I WOULD RATHER HAVE NO **** THAN THE SORENESS EVERYDAY. HOWEVER, I HAVENT EXPERIENCED ANY NAUSEA OR CRAMPING THAT MOST WOMEN EXPERIENCE WITH THIS PILL. HOPEFULLY, THESE SYMPTOMS WILL DECREASE AS MY BODY ADJUSTS TO THE HORMONES. I DONT THINK I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS PILL TO OTHERS. |
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11/10/07 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
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I am just over 2/3 through my first (and only) pack of OTCL. I feel like a crazy person! I started having serious moodiness almost immediately. I thought I was going to murder person in the car in front of me during rush hour, possibly punch my boyfriend in the face or throw my dog out the window. I've never been a moody person so I knew it was the pills when my patience was down to zero and i started crying on a dime. Besides the mood swings, I have been spotting and experiencing cramping for the last three days. My usual high sex drive is now completely dimished. I understand I am only on my first month of taking these but I don't care to give it the full three months. I am miserable knowing these little hormone pills are doing so much to change how I feel and behave. Back to good old condom use during the week I ovulate. I JUST WANT TO FEEL NATURAL AGAIN! |
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11/9/07 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
ive been on this pill for about 2 weeks. the first day i was nausous but then that went away thankkk godd .. i dont know if im just crazy but my **** feel alittle bigger already yay hah and sore but i can deal with that.. i was just wondering if anyone expierenced dry scalp? i have some hair loss which i hear is common but i havent heard dry scalp .. jw thanks but overall i love it |
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11/8/07 |
5 |
3 |
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4 |
I've been on it for about two months. The first month I was miserable. Nausea, vomiting, moodiness, sore ****, hair loss, water retention, the whole nine yards. Second month: Nausea is gone, moods are even keel, hair loss has slowed, but still have water retention and sore ****. The water retention goes away with the inactive pills, but so do the bigger **** (which really are amazing for this normally flat-chested girl--I actually have cleavage now!). No spotting ever and periods are on time. Oh, and I'm not pregnant! The **** and no baby make up for the negative side effects in my mind. So I have a little water retention--doesn't seem to phase my boyfriend :) I would recommend this pill, but caution that you can be pretty miserable the first month. I found that if I ate a little something every couple of hours, it cut down on the constant nausea (watch out for that first day, it's a doozy). |
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11/6/07 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I've been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for about 8 months now. The first 1 or 2 months were sort of rough with some nausea in the morning after a few hours after I took my pill. To help with that I started taking the pill at night before I went to sleep which helped a lot. Also for the first few months I had terrible cramps! Then until about the 4th months I would have mood swings where sometimes I would be depressed, sometimes anxious, and sometimes just moody and mean. Everymonth however things got better. My cramps are back to normal, and I may or may not be depressed for 2 or 3 days. The only problem now is that for a period of about 3 days in the beginning of week two my stomach just feels weird, no nausea, but acidic, gassy, and just really uncomfortable...but I think the positives outweigh the negatives so if your having trouble just hang in there for the first few months. |
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11/4/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
I've been on this pill for about 5 or 6 months now. I haven't experienced any side effects since the beginning. It didn't help my skin or make me gain weight (perhaps slightly in the ****), but it is effective in its intended purposem and after the third month it helped regulate my period. It's a bit pricey, but as a college student it is available at a significantly cheaper price. |
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11/3/07 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
I've been on OTC Lo for about a year now. The only time I've ever had any side effects was in the first two weeks to where I was constantly nauseated. As far as clearing my skin up, NOPE! Still the same...but my sex drive is great. No big complaints! |
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11/3/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
same college student here from comments below. i am now done with the first week of pills and i really dont see any noticeable side effects. i think there might have been some minor bloating the first 2 days but other than that, everything has been great. i actually noticed an increase in vaginal lubrication, but then i again, i usually do have a lot. as for my libido, it hasnt been affected negatively. my libido might have gone up because of the diminished worries about pregnancy- still have that same great desire =). i havent had any spotting or cramps. again, its only been my first week (white pills). [no nausea or vomitting at all] going to keep posting as "college student" |
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10/30/07 |
5 |
2 |
4 |
3 |
I have been on this pill for 2 years now. At first I didn't experience any side effects at all but recently I have. In the beginning I did notice my ***** did get bigger, I went from a 32C to a 32D. Now recently I have been feeling constant anxiety attacks, along with mood swings and stress (which is probably because of all the changes in mood). I would not recommend this pill to anyone. I am going to the doctor on friday to see if she can recommend another pill with less side effects. I hope she can! |
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10/29/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
I actually asked to be put on Ortho-tri to gain weight. I have gained it all in my ****, and have went up one whole cup size :) |
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10/23/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
1 |
I have been on OTLO for about 4 years now with NO side effects-Loved it. NOW noticed about a year ago I get ESXTREME moodiness, anger, depression and NO SEX DRIVE AT ALL. I HATE THIS. I have NO idea what to switch to and I am worried if I switch I will get on something that will cause weight gain/acne. UGGHHHH! |
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10/21/07 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
I was on OTCL for a year.. and i was super moody like clock work on the 3rd set of pills, and i would cry all the time.. for no freaking reasonl.. and i still had cramps.. however i recently switched to Microgisten FE 1/20 and its sucks ...i keep spotting.. and i hate it.. and ive cramped even more than ever.. my conclusion..id rather be emotional than have spotting.. this SUCKS! im going back to OTCL as soon as possible! |
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10/21/07 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
i was on yasmin for about a year and a half and it was a nightmare. I had chest pains, mood swings, crying all the time, hair loss, and bad cramps. the only good part was i didnt gain weight, and no acne. so i switched to ortho lo. nightmare. I have ALWAYS been an extremly happy person.. always witha smile on my face and the first to befriend someone. I feel so bad for my family and boyfriend now bc i get so mad out of nowhere and i can start to cry at the drop of a dime. I hate myself. This pill has made me feel like my life is going nowhere and i cant stand being so mad and grouchy all the time. I just want the old meback with the same effectiveness.. and ive always had a high sex drive. Yasmin didnt effect that .. but with ortho low, i feel nothing. I want to switch but with no insurance its kind of hard. I want to try yaz but heard it was off the wall expensive. anyone kno how much? |
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10/15/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
k ive been on the pill for a year..no weight gain..no nothing...i think its different for everyone tho..i think its great...i would recommend it i think everyone just rates it low cause they have probs with it..but its all in their head =) |
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10/14/07 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
I was on Ortho Tri-Cyclen for years, but I changed to the Lo because of the lower dose of estrogen. I did have break through bleeding in the beginning, but that is normal for any lower estrogen pill. Your body has to adapt to a lower estrogen level that causes spotting. Lower level is better because it decreases the risk of cancer (breast cancer mainly). There really hasn't been a lot of change. I mean, who likes to be on birth control anyway? It is easy to be moody, especially that time of the month. In general, it works fine. Take it right before you go to bed. |
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10/14/07 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
The effectiveness was great because I didn't get pregnent but I'm switching to LoOvral (the only other option at the Health Dept. where I get it for free) because of the side effects. I did not gain weight on this birth control or feel really bloated which was nice. The 2 main side effects which are causing me to switch are total loss of sex drive and feeling overly emotional. The sex drive thing is the worst! I just lost my virginity at 25 and was so excited (literally!) to be able to have sex. I wanted it at least every other day but since starting Ortho lo I have seen my arousal disappear. I'm not sure how much the emotional stuff will be helped by switching since most BCs I've tried seem to affect me somewhat in that arena (ortho lo did not affect me as bad as Yasmin. Yasmin made me psyco!). Finding the right BC sucks when you don't have insurance! |
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10/10/07 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
2 |
The first several months on this pill were fine. Then i started spotting and had the worst cramps accompanied by cold sweats and dizziness. I already had bad menstrual cramping but to have them when i wasnt even on my period was no fun.I usually took some advil for menstrual cramps and it works fine. But this time it didn't work and I was in constant pain for 24hrs. I had to call in sick to work because of it cause I could barely stand. My doctor has said she's seen the same side effects with other women. Something to do with the low hormones causes it. I am now taking ortho-novum which has a higher dosage of hormones. Still waiting to see how it works out. |
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10/9/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I've almost finished a whole pack and no side effects except during the second week of the pack my blood pressure was high but by the the fourth week it returned to normal |
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10/9/07 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
At first i noticed a little bit of weight gain not much though like 5lbs at the most. How ever my **** did get bigger in almost one full year i went from A 32 C to a 32 DD. WHich is huge for my tiny body. Anyways, no experince of acne since i've been on the pill. However for the first couple of months i had mood swings like crazy. But overtime i got better. I never tried any other pill. But from what i read Ortho is A pretty good deal. I Always got my period on a wesnday no doubt about it. Oh one other thing make sure you have food in your stomache b-4 taking pill.. i noticed my stomache would have sharp pains if i 4-got to eat |
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10/7/07 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I have not an emotional person and am a very optimistic happy person. But, since starting this pill i have been really on edge, even blew up at a few people which i never do. I am just like a ticking time bomb. I broke out on one of my cheeks too, so long to this pill i wont take it any longer. |
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10/6/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
college student here reading all these negative comments. getting a little scared to start trying this product. (i guess people with negative side effects have more to rant about than people who dont.) i really hope that i wont get any side effects and that ill be the lucky other percentage who wont see any changes in their sex drives. i have a high libido, and id like to keep it that way. i get ridiculously wet, so if the pills have any effect on vaginal dryness, ill definitely know. as for the mood swings, could it be that people who complain about it being a side effect are just projecting it on the pill? i mean, people have mood swings all the time. of course this has yet to be proven or nulled. yeah. definitely looking forward to see what will happen. |
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10/4/07 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I just finished my first pack and am now on my 3rd day of my period. For the past 2 days I've had the heaviest menstruation that I've ever had...and I've been getting my period for 7 years. I called my doctor and they said that it's normal, but I don't see anything normal about excessive bleeding. I'm terrified that I'm doing some damage to myself and I'm going to have to go through this again...or worse..that this bleeding won't stop. |
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10/4/07 |
5 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
This pill gave me yeast infections EVERY SINGLE MONTH that I was on it, and I was on it for a year. I hadn't had an infection in years before I started this pill. Not only that, but I would get my period in the third week of the pack instead of the fourth, and it would last about 10 days. Not a good experience. |
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10/1/07 |
4 |
3 |
5 |
2 |
I just finished my first month of this pill. I have been on Ortho Cyclen and Yasmin. I had horrible mood swings, reoccuring yeast infections and no sex drive with O.C. ... Yasmin was wonderful, but I still kept getting yeast infections... so I switched to Ortho Cyclen Lo and I've been ok so far. No infections (knock on wood), no mood swings, no weight gain, and my sex drive seems normal. I have actually initiated sex some! lol It's hard to have an opinon on something when it works differently for everyone, but it is working for me so far. :) If not.. you will hear an update! I actually came on here to see if it has an increased rate of not working and women have become pregnant... which is a rumor i've heard. If anyone else finds any info. regarding that please fill me in! :) |
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9/27/07 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
I've just started taking birth control pills for the first time and my doctor put my on ORTHO LO for the less frequent/severe side effects. I'm mid-way through the light blue pills of my first pack. So far, I haven't experienced any symptoms. No weight gain, my skin hasn't changed, and I haven't experienced any moodiness (in fact, I've felt pretty cheery all week, although I can't necessarily contribute this to the pill). My (normally high) sex drive hasn't changed at all as far as I can tell. I've had sex a couple times since beginning the pill and haven't had any problems with self lubrication. I can't say anything yet as to the efficacy of the pill as far as preventing pregnancy goes. However, both my sisters have been on ORTHO LO for a few years and have been very happy with it. I think it's important to mention BEFORE I STARTED THE PILL, I've always had very regular periods, with very regular monthly symptoms. If you plan to post, it'd be helpful if you gave a basis to compare. |
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9/26/07 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
I have been on this Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo for a year now. I didn't gain any weight because I never took the sugar pills but my acne did clear up. The only problem I have had is mood change. I have been really moody and anything makes me cry. I went to the GYNO. today and he switched me to YAZ. I can't wait until next month so I can start taking them! |
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9/25/07 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
I have a feeling that most of the ppl who rate this drug, experience horrible side effects, but where are all the ppl who have nothing but positive things to say? Well I've been on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo since Dec 06'. The main reason I went on this was to clear my severe forehead acne. I was going on a cruise in Feb and I wanted to make sure I would be picture perfect. Anyhow, I started to notice that my skin was clearing up about 2months after I started. I experienced a few mood swings here and there but not sure if it was due to the pill. I also have not gained any weight. I believe that if you do not change your diet, and you still exercise...you should be ok. What's all this B.S. about weight gain? You gain weight because you EAT MORE. The pill may cause your cravings to increase but that's controllable as well as your excercise regimen. |
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9/24/07 |
3 |
1 |
4 |
2 |
Experienced about 10 lbs. weight gain, which is a lot since I started off at 95 lbs. And it seemed like acne actually got worse! |
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9/21/07 |
5 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
well i am on the third month, and just two days ago i missed a dose because i usually take it around 11 at night and i didnt take it until 7 the next morning. I have been cramping like crazy the past few days and spotting. Since i read everyone else's reviews i realized my sex drive is waaay down too but i never associated it with the pill. i have about 4 days of horrible cramps every month and the crimson wave and yeah im probably going to change soon. I have not gained any weight, its not a horrible pill but i think i should maybe try something new. |
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9/12/07 |
3 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
Well, first off, I started Ortho just as it said to- the first Sunday of your period, problem is- THAT WAS THREE WEEKS AGO and I still have my period. It has been 21 days of complete bleeding and I just stopped taking it because its not worth it to me anymore. My entire life I have tried a few different BC's, but my doctor finally said Ortho would be the best for me. I'm really aggravated and I am moody because I am constantly uncomfortable. Plus, who wants a period for 21 days straight? I am very disappointed. |
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9/6/07 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
Too much bleeding. After 3 months my OB switched me to yasmin and for the first 2 months the bleeding has been manageable. Also no sex drive with Tricyclen lo and have not experinced this with my new pill. |
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9/6/07 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
Works wonderfully as a birth control because I have no sex drive whatsoever. I'm a newlywed and did not have sex until my wedding night. You'd think being newly married, I might want to have sex with my husband every now and then. Well, not now! Before my sex drive was normal, now it's nonexistant. I also don't like what it does to my period because I practically don't have one! I'm sure this is fabulous for most women, but I actually liked my period (light bleeding never a cramp, stomach ache, or moodswing in my life). Now I barely get a drop of blood. Other than this, I have never experienced any problems from OTCL. It's a perfectly good form of contraception. |
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9/4/07 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
After trying this for 4 months, I finally gave up. I started getting TWO periods a month, which is *NOT* fun. They weren't much different from "regular" periods I would get while not taking BCPs. The concept for a lower dose hormone is nice, but just didn't work for me. Might work for others, but I would never suggest it to a friend! |
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9/4/07 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I've been on otcl for 4 years. I never gained any weight and could not tell how it helped with acne as i never really breakout to begin with. I can schedule my life around my period, I get it the same day every month almost to the hour and for only about 4 days. The only thing bad about this pill is it has decreased my sex drive considerably. If my bf approaches me that's one thing, but i never have any drive to approach him first. Just recently within the last 6 months I have been experiencing extreme mood swings a week or so before my period. At one moment i'm angry the next minute i'm crying and have no clue what about, which just upsets me more. Not sure if these effects are from the pill as they have just started occuring or if it's something else |
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9/3/07 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
This pill is terrible. I have only been on it a month, and I feel like a basket case. I've picked more pointless and insane fights with my boyfriend in the past 3 weeks than I care to recall. I am bloated, and I've spent all day alternating between bawling my eyes out and panic attacks. This pill sucks. |
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8/29/07 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
Had nothing but breakthrough bleeding. Did nothing to regulate my cycles and is expensive. Wouldn't mind paying for something that helped, but it did absolutely nothing!! No other side effects. |
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8/27/07 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
I needed to be on the pill and fast. Planned Parenthood gives you a year supply free which is good cause @ my doctors it's like 35 a month. I love being on it. My acne has gone away almost completely, My sex drive is high, and I feel safer now that I'm on it. I don't have many side effects except for bloating around that week and some crankiness. be Safe girls Take it on time daily. |
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8/26/07 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
4 |
I find it really interesting that there are so many negative reviews on this bc!!! I love otcl. I have no mood swings, my periods went from complete nightmares to 3-4 days of light bleeding and I retained my same 110lb figure. The only thing that posed a small issue was having to receive this prescription from my insurance company, instead of receiving it at the local CVS, which is the problem of my insurance company actually. Honestly, I noticed absolutely no changes whatsoever when I started taking this pill. I've been on it for 2 years now and have been consistently happy. Perhaps I'm just made for this pill huh? |
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8/26/07 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
I switched to OTC-Lo after having problems with an IUD. We had decided not to have any more children, so the IUD was a great choice, but it was not compatible with my body. My obstetrician gave me a year's supply that day, stating this pill was better than Loestrin (my requested pill) because it had a lower incidence of side effects. Beware of all things free- I am now pregnant with my third child, and I can assure you that I took this pill with precision. I also gained 10 lbs with the pill and had horrific mood swings. While we will welcome and love this child as we do our others, this failure has ensured that my husband and I will both pursue sterilization post-delivery. |
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8/26/07 |
5 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
I have taken this pill for 2 months and I am now on my 3rd package. This pill has made be nausous every single morning since I started to take it. I thought it would get better once I got used to the hormones but it has not. I feel exactly like morning sickness when you are pregnant except this is much worse than when I was pregnant. I was hoping this pill would help with my moderate acne but I have actually gotten some of the largest most painful acne since I stared this pill. When I get my periods they are just as heavy as when I was not on Birth control but I have much more cramping that last the entire period. And even after the my main period is over I have about an extra 3-5 days of random spotting. I have gained about 2-3 lbs since taking this pill and I think it is mostly because I try to keep my stomach full so I dont feel like vomiting as much. I have not experience any strang moods or emotions but my sex drive is almost zero. I simply just dont think about sex anymore. |
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8/14/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
Before taking this drug I was a happy-go-lucky girl that loved having a great time, with no depression whatsoever. I have been taking the pill for a month and a half now, and my mood swings have become unbearable. I think about dying, have panic attacks, break out in a cold sweat and get scared RANDOMLY. My anxiety is HORRIBLE. So besides the mood swings and crying randomly, my sex drive is gone, and when I finally do have sex its so painful that I need to stop half the time. Other than that, no other side effects. I may just be adjusting and it might get better after a couple more months. |
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8/14/07 |
3 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
While it's doing its job (I have unprotected sex in a monogamous relationship with the pull out method and am using this pill as back up) in the pregnancy prevention department, it is absolutely disappointing otherwise. Before starting this pill I was in the average body-fat percentage range, was average in physical activity and was otherwise happy. After starting this pill I have gained almost 20 pounds, can feel water retention on my body, my **** have increased a cup size but they were already big for my size so I do not appreciate it. My appetite has severely increased, and my mood swings are ridiculous. During PMS, I am a complete wreck! Also, while it has regulated my once fickle periods, my period is now heavier than usual and lasts longer than it ever had before. Ultimately, I'm disappointed and after 8 months on this pill, I am stopping it after this month and returning to condoms until I find a better birth control pill. |
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8/14/07 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
I'm on my 2nd pack of OTCL in the first week. I thought it was good at first, but now I don't like it anymore. Sex drive is ok as it was high to begin with. My skin is flaky and dry on my face, I'm moody, cry for no reason, which isn't me at all, like another poster said - numb, depressed, more headaches, and I feel bloated and I think I'm gaining weight...my clothes are starting to get tight, and my eating habits haven't changed all that much!! I don't recommend this pill. I'm not sure what to take anymore, as I have been on 4 different pills since January. My doctor is getting annoyed with me because i keep coming in and switching, but I don't want to feel like crap. Alesse I had breakthrough, Yasmin I had terrible headaches and depression. |
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8/14/07 |
4 |
3 |
3 |
2 |
I have been on this BC for about 6 months now. I started taking Yasmin and liked it, but switched to Desogen because Yasmin was too expensive ( 50 per month through university). I started taking OTC lo when Desogen was discontinued at my college pharmacy. I am torn about my opinion of this pill. The best thing about this pill ( besides not getting pregnant) is that my fairly bad acne completly cleared up, also my severe cramps were eliminated, and my periods became very regular. I have never experiaced break-through bleeding on this pill or any type of pain. I have gained about 15 pounds, an although some of the gain may be because of stress, I seem to be unable to lose te weight no matter how hard I try. I have never had a hard time losing weight before. I also seem to produce little to no natural lubrication and have a decreased sex drive. I get pissed extremely easily, and am much more emotional than before the pill. |
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8/13/07 |
1 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
Way tooooooooooo much breakthrough bleeding with this pill. Was on it for nearly a year, long enough to adjust and had breakthrough bleeding for weeks @ a time. Wouldn't recommend it. |
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8/13/07 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
Took this for 2 years. Never had break through bleeding, acne only during the last week. I am an active smaller person and I gained 10 lbs, on me going from 115 to 125 is HUGE. **** got bigger though. Never had cramps before I got this pill. Stomache hurt if I forgot to take the pill, stomache hurt sometimes if I did. I became pretty moody sometimes... Sex drive not so good, but thats because I was constantly worried about my body and weight. I was pretty iregular with the times that I took it at (wouldnt suggest that) but Im not pregnant so I cant complain. Just switched to Lutera we will see how that goes... |
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7/27/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
I took this pill for 6 months after switching from Ortho-Tri-Cyclen to try the lower estrogen dose. I felt bloated, experienced stomach cramping/gastritis, bad breast enderness during 2nd & 3rd week of pills and bad PMS/mood swings, irritability & terrible cramps during period. I was surprised as I thought lower estrogen dose would be better. I switched to Cyclessa which was better and resolved most side effects, but I experienced BTB in last week of those pills. |
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7/26/07 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
I didn't really think it was the BC, but I have been on this for about 2 years and noticed how down and depressed I have been. I was previously on Diane 35, which I loved but came off because of all of the health scares associated with it. I am getting of Ortho Lo, but really confused and scared with what to go on. I am not myself anymore and I really belive it is this stupid pill. Has anyone else felt this way? |
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7/25/07 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
2 |
I have only been on lo for a month and a half but it seems to work great. I haven't had any of the terrible side effects mentioned by many people. the only thing bad that has happened is i have some breast tenderness and my **** have gotten a bit bigger too. the tenderness seems to be going away though. i think it might be because i didn't have enough estrogen in my body to begin with though. for most people it is adding more but for me it is adding just enough i think. my sister has the same problem- not enough estrogen. plus, i have a HUGE sex drive normally (i mean, my husband is the one who is saying, "no hunny, i'm too tired") so making the sex drive normal wouldn't be so bad, but it doesn't seem to have been effected at all. anyone have any recommendations on a generic drug that is like lo? I don't have insurance to afford the lo! is tri-sprintec good or is it the same? |
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7/19/07 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
I've been on this drug for 3 years and lately I've been noticing that I am depressed, extremely moody, emotional, and can get violently angry for no reason at all. I never realized that I have been experiencing this for a while until it was pointed out to me and when I thought it could be the pill (after I went into useless counseling for 3 months), I read posts from other women and it all made sense! This pill is screwing with me, and I'm switching. |
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7/16/07 |
5 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
I have been on ortho tricyclen lo about 5 and half months. i have heard the horror stories but have not experienced them. my sex drive wasn't really affected. my **** do get really sore the week before my period. my perios is super light. my face has cleared up. my weight has stayed the same. but i do have to admit i get super angry outburts for stupid reasons. and i cry alot too. i did both befor the pill, but the pill has made them more violent. other than that i haven't got pregnant yet. its a hassle to remember to take it every night but soon it becomes habit. oh i do get nauseated at night around the time i am supose to take it. but it soon goes away. i never really had a major problem with it. |
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7/14/07 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
I switched to Ortho Tri Cyclen LO to help with acne as well as to avoid painful cysts. (not to prevent pregnancy, so I can't give a review on the sex drive or related issues!) I started with extreme nausiousness that would wake me up in the middle of the night. I have had several anger outbursts and gotten REALLY mad over situations that didn't warrent so much anger, and I am usually very un-confrontational. After one of them I ended up crying uncontrollably. (also out of character.) I have also had an incredible appetite- haven't even been on it for a month yet and have gained 6 pounds. The worst part is that about the 2nd week the inside of my mouth had a metallic taste as if I had been chewing on tin foil! It has gradually increased from a "wierd" taste in my mouth to a raw, scratchy feeling that makes my mouth burn whenever I eat. Unfortunately, I haven't even seen a big difference in my acne.Not sure what I'm going to do now, but I'm not taking this $50 a month pill anymore. |
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7/13/07 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
The fact there is no generic available was a major set back, but I continued to take the pill. On the plus side (I've been taking it for about 6 months) any skin issues I was dealing with were reduced and I didn't experiance violent mood swings, but dibilitating nausea has followed me. It took me until very recently to realize the connection between my nausea and the pill. |
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7/12/07 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
I just recently got off the generic tri-sprintec and switched to ortho-tri cyclen lo. Terrible mood swings, super long period, crying, weight gain, break outs. The tri-sprintec totally kicked this pills butt. |
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7/6/07 |
5 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
I've only been on Ortho Lo for a month and a half, but so far so good. I have a lot less side effects than my previous BCP's Yasmin and regular Ortho. Instead of depression and moodswings, I'm having headaches and nausea, but my period is still really light and my sex drive isn't completely killed, so I don't mind. No generic, so I have to pay a little extra at the pharmacy, and I still hate taking it every day. Very effective, because I'm not pregnant yet, but we'll see what happens after a few more months! I hope the side effects don't get any worse. I may need to update my review. |
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7/2/07 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I have been taking Ortho tri-cyclen lo for about 3 and half months. I would not recommend this b/c to anyone. In the past 3 and half months, I have experienced dizziness when I didnt eat at a certain time, nausea every morning since I started the pill, bloatedness, weight gain, emotional, and complete ZERO sex drive now ( use to be VERY high ). For the first month and a hlaf my breast were so sore, even the slightest touch made me tear up. All of these symtoms, I was told, are side effects of birth control since it makes your body think you are pregnant. Well, I would rather just use condoms then to fill pregnant EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE!! Last night I officially stopped taking the pill. I'll just stick to condoms. They never failed me before. |
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7/2/07 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
I guess it is effective, but I always use a condom as well as the pill. I have been taking this for several months now and I am going to switch next month. I have gained 30 pounds and I eat healthy and am very active. I cannot lose it either - just keep gaining. Went from a size 4/6 to a 10/12. I have gotten a few yeast infections since on this, which I have never had before. My perfect clear completion has now become more like connect the dots. I always need a lubricant and never needed one before. Sex drive is lower than before. MOODY!! I was always happy go lucky and now I am either Dr. Jeckle or Mr. Hyde - depends from one week to the next. Everything pisses me off and I usually am really easy going and well tempered. I have to pee more than normal. I am bloated most of the time and look pregnant. More tired than normal. Periods are very short and barely have cramps. That is the only plus. i only pay $20 bucks because of my insurance. The pill dispenser stinks - it is hard to get |
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6/29/07 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
I spend $56.05 on this medication per month it is killing me, I can not afford it! I have been taking this medication since 11/06 I was just fine, but the past 2 months I have had sugary urine, bad mood swings and almost no period at all. I have gained 10 lbs i am miserable. On the 13th of July I am going to my Doctor to have blood work done and be taken off this pill. I have been on so many contaceptives that I no longer know what to take. I have been looking at the Yaz, but I just hope it isn't as much as I pay per month and the side effects, please no more severe side effects. |
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6/28/07 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
Overall I find the pill to be effective in helping my period, which is the reason I am on it. Since then, cramps have become less painful and periods lighter but not any shorter. As far as side effects go, the pill makes me very depressed and angry. Bloating has become a problem but I have seemed to have lost weight and my acne has cleared up alot.The pill dispenser sucks. I find it very difficult to get the pills out. Sometimes, when you do finally get it out it flies away and its hard to find. Otherwise, I think it is a good pill and I would recommend it to others. My insurance pays for my birth control so other than the co pay there isn't much I can say about value. |
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6/20/07 |
5 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
Effective...yes...I'm not pregnant. Though the side effects have been horrible. It took me awhile to realize that it the pill that was causing my problems. But now I know for sure that's what it is. I've started having massive crippling migraines. Tenderness in my ****. And It's made my anxiety worse and it's made me emotional...not just crying, but anger as well. I do not recommend this drug to anyone. |
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6/19/07 |
4 |
3 |
2 |
5 |
Well I've been on Orhto Lo for about 4 mons. and I have to say I really didn't have any side effects until this month. The only thing is that this pill doesn't help with my cramps and my period is almost as heavy as it was when I wasn't on BC. And I have almost no sex drive whatsoever!!! It sucks because it is causing problems with my boyfriend! I can't find a pill that works for me! |
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6/18/07 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
I have been taking this pill for about 6 months and I guess I would say it is effective because I haven't gotten pregnant. Side effects I have noticed are some vaginal dryness, breast tenderness (usually not too bad, but this month they really HURT!), and mood swings (mostly in the form of depression and hysterical crying) during week 3. I still get cramps and bloating, but not as bad as I used to and it didn't really shorten the length of my period, but did make it lighter. My acne has also cleared up fairly well and I am down to just the occasional blemish. I my appetite has really dimished too, so I have lost a lot of weight, but this might be due to stress and anxiety. Overall, I am satisfied with this pill and will probably continue taking it. |
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6/18/07 |
5 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
I was on ortho tri-cyclen lo for a little over a year and I have to say it was awful. I was previously on ovcon and though I had some problems with that one this was so much worse. I became extremely emotional, basically to the point of depression, gained 12 lbs. I was getting horrible cramps from it, and I didn't even get cramps when I was on no pill at all. Experienced heavier periods, migraines and headaches all the time and I completely lost my libido. Also, just like some girls mentioned if I did not eat by a certain time I would become extremely dizzy and nauseus. When I had ortho tri-cyclen lo prescribed to me it was with a different doctor than my norm. When I went back to my normal doctor she said she was very surprised I switched to this pill. She told me she had rec'd many complaints about it. I am finally off and just switched to YAZ. She advised that she has had great feedback from yaz and an average weight LOSS of 2lbs. I hope this one is better! |
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6/16/07 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
I have not noticed any side effects and Ive been on it for over a year. I have gotten two yeast infections recently, and Im not sure of it was diredtly related to the pill. I still bload a bit before my period, but its much improved since I started taking the pill. Overall, I am happy with it. |
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6/14/07 |
3 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
I've tried 3 other brands in the past and lo is the one that makes my **** the least swollen and sore. I have noticed BAD headaches and random crying at the drop of a hat; however, I do have several very stressful things going on in my life. After 2 months my sex drive has seemed to decrease, but that may be related to my feelings towards by boyfriend. I was just trying to figure if it was this pill (which is $35 monthly--outrageous!) or just me. So far it has been effective, but it frightens me that a few people have gotten pregnant while taking it. |
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6/7/07 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
I took Ortho Lo for years-then switched to the nuva ring. Which is much more convienant, but super expensive. So I came back to Lo after 2 years being off birth control completely. I'm on my first pack of pills, only 2 weeks in, and I'm nausious every time I eat. I'm wondering if anyone else has felt this way? My insurance doesn't cover this, only regular ortho-so the value for me is bad. Convenience comparitively to the Nuva Ring- hard to remember to take a pill after only having to change a ring one a month. |
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6/7/07 |
5 |
1 |
4 |
3 |
I have been on tri-cylcen lo for the past 4 months, and have just stopped because I think taking this pill may be linked to depression I have been having for the past 3 months. I cry almost every day, and have started to hate all my friends for no reason at all. So I hope that these problems go away no that I am not taking it!!!! |
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6/5/07 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
Im 19 and this is the first time ever to be on any type of b/c and i was scared to take this pill because of all the negitave comments but im glad i tried it if your thinking about getting on this pill just remember that everyone is different so you wont know if you going to have any side effects until you try it. I am on the 3 day of the light blue pills and and i feel extremly tired!!! during the white pills i was very bloated and my skin is dry i am anxious to see what the dark blue pills will be like i was a little nauses the first night i took them after that i was fine dont have any weight gain just the bloating which seems to be gone now that i started the light blue pills as for the effectiveness its be fine so far and it has increased my sex drive for the better i would recommend this pill.. My friend started the same time i did and hasnt had any side effects accept being really tired on the light blue pills.. Hope this helps!!! |
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5/28/07 |
3 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
I've only been taking Ortho try-cyclen lo for three weeks now. I only switched to it from Mercette because I ran out and a friend gave me a couple months worth of her pills because she's no longer on bc. Well, since I've started taking them I've had no appetite and for the past four days I've had diahrrea and felt bloated. I feel fine otherwise so I don't think it is the flu and I think it is the pill. Has anyone else experienced this? I don't think I'll continue taking this bc. |
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5/24/07 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
I'm 16 and am on my 12th pill therefore I can't really say how effective the pill is for me. Within the past week and a half I've noticed my depression increasing greatly to points where I don't want to get out of my bed, see anyone or do anything. I feel sick random parts of the day and I get a lot of headaches since I started the pill. I feel like it has a lot of downfalls but the only thing I really care about is its effectiveness, I guess it's okay for now. |
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