Anyone else use Seasonique (Birth Control)?

[annabanana102]

I just started using Seasonique (used to be called Seasonal) Dec 19,2006 and I'm hoping there will be some ladies on here that can provide me with some feed back. I was hoping I would be able to read the insert that was supposed to come with the filled prescription, but the pharmacy didn't include it in the bag. Anywho, can anyone tell me if they had swollen, sore breast and sore nipples when they first started taking this type of bc? My stomach is also a little tender to the touch. I'm just wanting to see if anyone else experienced these side effects when first starting this type of bc. I used to use the Nuva Ring prior to the switch. Also, for those of you who have been using this type of bc for awhile, how do you like it? I'm still trying to get used to taking a pill daily, I've only had to double up twice so far. Thanks in advance for your feed back.

[free spirit]

I've been on seasonal for  1 1/2yrs.  It took a few months for my body to totally accept it. I kept having break through spotting. But since that stopped, everything has been great I've had no problems. You may just be experiencing the normal, 'get used to the pill' symptoms. Give it some time.

[AMA17]

Hey anna --

I was on Seasonale for about 3 years... I loved it. I actually just switched though. I had NO side effects in the beginning - no spotting ever, and I LOVED only getting my period 4x a month. I switched because I found I was having side effects within the past 6 months or so - same thing happened with my sister - no side effects until a couple years in... weird.

What I was experiencing was night sweats occasionally (my sister was getting them every night - and couldn't handle it - so she went off) It was annoying but not bad. Then I noticed a decrease in sex drive, and a few other things that i feel may have been associated, but I'm not sure. I was on Ortho Tri Cyclen for about 7 years before - and decided to go back on it this past Sunday. Also - by switching I'm saving about $500 a year! My health insurance didn't cover Seasonale but it does cover Ortho - SO, i'm taking Ortho like Seasonale, and paying for the extra packs! Hopefully it will work out.. we'll see..

ANYWAY - long story - but I loved Seasonale for a long time, after taking it a while my periods were only about 3 days long which was great!
Good luck with it!!

[free spirit]

They now have a generic seasonale available.

[AMA17]

isn't "Seasonique", as mentioned by the original poster, the generic brand?

I thought about switching to that - but decided to go back to the old faithful pill...

[annabanana102]

Thanks Ladies for your feedback. That's very encouraging.

[free spirit]

seasonanique is the bcp that lets you basically skip all periods. Seasonale you have 4 per year.

[Rassward]

I have been on Seasonique for about 6 weeks and I feel so weird!  I had always taken ON 7/7/7 but my gyn wanted to switch me because I was having some post-menstruation problems, like feeling pretty blue for a few days and I was getting headaches.  So when I first started taking it, no problems but the last month I have just not felt like myself.  I feel VERY anxious, worrying about crazy stuff-like I'm going to die, have gained a few pounds, breasts/nipples very tender, feel bloated and gassy, my libido is almost zilch (this is a huge change for us), I feel tired and achy all the time, and lastly my lips are staying dry and chapped.  I know these sound really strange but the only thing I can relate it to is Seasonique.  I have always been very healthy and active but now I just don't feel like doing anything. I'm 35 with 3 children and very happy with my life but HELP!!

[jlh031706]

I have been on Seasonique for now 8 weeks. I've had break through bleeding for 3 of the 8 weeks and it isn't showing any signs of stopping. I've had period like symptons during the 8th week. I called the doctor and they keep telling me that it's just my body getting used to the pill. Has anyone else experience these type of symptoms?

[jlh031706]

Rassward
I just read your comments and wanted to let you know that you are not alone. I have the same exact feelings. Its driving me crazy with how uncomfortable I am right now in my own body. I've called the drs office several times and they keey telling me the samething...just give the pill sometime. UGH!

[momofacc]

I am on my 5th week of Seasonique. I have had NO break thru bleeding, but I am having severe breast tenderness, almost to the point of not being able to  sleep, wear a bra. I am a 38 yr old mother of 3. I had my tubal in 1998, had severe endometriosis a year ago and had Laparoscopic ablation performed. That seemed to help with the bleeding some and cured my right sided abdominal pain, but the last few months my periods have been extremely heavy, which is causing my counts to bottom out, and Iwas diagnosed anemic,I got migraines with them, and from the bloodloss, extreme fatigueso bad I could not go to workor hardly do household chores.
My GYN decided to put me on Seasonique,  and last monthwhen it was time for my period, I had NO reaction. No cramping, no bloating, no irritability, nothing except breast tenderness.
How about anybody else?

[Jegemeister]

Rassward and Jlh,

I am at the end of my 5th week of Seasonique.  I had barely any breakthrough bleeding, maybe a dot or two.  I was on Mircette for 5 years before this, which had a lower hormone dosage, and had desogestrel instead of levonorgestral.  I didn't think it was the pill, but I am usually a very active person, and I have been feeling very lazy and lethargic all the time.  My breasts are VERY tender to the point where wearing a bra to sleep is the only thing that helps.  I have definitely gained at least 3-5 lbs, and it doesn't seem to be going anywhere!

Am I supposed to stick it out and keep feeling yucky or should switch back to my birth control that I had basically no problems with except minor breakthrough bleeding? I start my first real job next week and I had to buy all new work clothes b/c I didn't fit into ones I had already! Any opinions??

[bethm321]

I started taking Seasonique for PMDD. On the day that I would have started my period, I had some breakthrough bleeding. It got worse, so I stopped taking it altogether. My family and friends also noticed that my moods were very erratic -- worse than when I started taking the pill! I don't need it for birth control, so I just stopped.

My last pill was on Saturday night. I already mentally and emotionally feel better, but the bleeding is still there. When can I expect it to stop?

[BarBieGuRL83]

hey everyone!!

i just started taking seasonique about 6 weeks ago and i have noticed that i have gained about 3 pounds and my breasts are super tender all of the time.  Most of the time they hurt even when i'm walking up and down the stairs it is also uncomfortable to sleep sometimes too...they really hurt bad when i go to the gym...if you take some vitamin E every morning i have noticed that to help out alot with the swelling.  I have also been heavily spotting constantly the whole time i have been on this. it is so frusterating...i want the spotting to go away.  i feel like i've had my period for two months....will this stop soon!?? i have never been late to take a pill and ive never missed a pill either...i switched from normal BC to this stuff...i e-mailed my doctor but she hasn't gotten back to me yet about it.  any help you guys can give me would rock!! :) thanks!! --Tina

[maynard1189]

hi everyone!
I am 18 and i have been on the pill for two months and for the past three weeks i have been bleeding like crazy! i feel like my whole world is falling apart and my cramps have never been worse. i called my doctor and talked to the nurse, i tried to explain to her that the reason i started seasonique was to manage the pain i was experiencing on normal periods so that i can play college soccer in the fall and not have to worry about the pain. so far my soccer team has had 5 open field practices and i have had to miss 3 of them because i cant stand the thought of getting hit in the ovaries...my boy friend has noticed my mood changes, im very emotional, and edgy. i stopped taking the pill 3 days ago and already i have noticed changes, my breasts are not as tender, i feel more active, and i want to socialize with friends and family more. i dont know if i can go back to seasonique...any advise?

[kwoerd]

I've been on Seasonique for 2  1/2 weeks and have been spotting like crazy. I went on this pill because my post-partum periods had been averaging 10 days and my OB-GYN thought this hormone dosage would be perfect for me, plus help alleviate my migraines. I've been terribly moody, have gained 3 lbs. already and have been spotting for 5 days already - almost to the point of having a normal period. I want to give this more time - I haven't been on BC in over 5 years, but I'm already wondering if this is really worth it?!

[CampGrl22]

Hey!  I'm 21 years old and have been on Seasonale for 3 years.  I have endometriosis and have had 2 laporscopys done.. my last done not a month ago.  Well I call in my refill for my Seasonale yesterday... I go to pick it up today and come home and Seasonique is in the bag!  My OB-GYN has been asking me if I wanted to switch... he said that with Seasonique you only have 4 pills that allow you to have your period... well I said no because it usually takes me a few days to actually start.  Well I freak when I see these pills in here.... and I go thru and look at them... and in the 3rd pack.. the last week where you have your period... it's a whole week... not 4 days like he said... so my question is.... do you have a week period... or is that just lower doses and you have 4 day periods?  Is Seasonale converting to Seasonique?  

[free spirit]

I bet it had something to do with drug company money.  Seasonale recently became available in the generic form so the drug company isn't making as much money on it anymore.  The seasonique is new and you still have to pay the higher amount for it because the generic form isn't available yet.

I would assume that it is during the week with inactive pills that you are supposed to have your period.     Maybe you should call the pharmacist to see if they made a mistake in filling your perscription, it does happen.

As for the rest of you,   if you are uncomfortable on seasonale and can't stand the side effects that it is causing you, change the type of pill your on.  Don't suffer.  There are different combinations out there. Though, if you are having problems with breast tenderness and moodiness, I think the ones that are lower in progesterone may be better.

[SarahR97]

I too have just started Seasonique and am at the end of my 9th week. However, I have been bleeding for the past 3 weeks. It's a light period but it's a nusiance just the same. I haven't been on bc for a long time so I figure my body is just adjusting to the hormones but still, having a period for three weeks plus sucks! I have called my doctor but she hasn't gotten back to me so I've been doing some research on the web. Apparently, in the drug company's study of the drug, in the first 91 day pill cycle 63% of women experienced 7 or more days of bleeding or spotting and 29% experienced 20 or more days. It of course lessens over time.

[geogetta]

I took seasonique for about 8 weeks from end of Dec 06 to mid Feb 07. I mainly asked my gyn dr. to prescribe it to me so I could avoid the heavy periods I was experiecing at the time and only have 4 periods a year. Prior to taking seasonique I had two fibroids about 8cm each. By mid-feb, I was experiencing continous bleeding and my uterus had grown so big, and firm that it felt like it was going to explode. No kidding. I also had constant pelvic and back pain that was excrutiating. I stopped taking it, I changed to a new gyn dr who had me take a MRI. Turns out my uterus had grown to the size of a 16wk pregnancy, I had 15 fibroids now of which 3 of them were 10x7, 8x6 and 5x4cm. I would caution anyone with pre-existing fibroids not to take this drug. The bleeding continued for 2 months before finally slowing down to spotting. My period on the other hand grew so heavy to the point I was saturating a super absobency tampon and a pad in an hour. I made more messes in that time than I have ever done in my life. Life during my period was unbearable. I recently had the fibroids removed and thankfully, since I am still young, 37 years, the dr was able to save my uterus. The chances of me having a successful pregnacy in the future are shot though. I have recently had a period after my surgery and it is back to normal and my uterus hasnt really contracted back to a normal size and probably wont. Beware of taking seasonique if you have fibroids!

[lambe]

This is all very eye opening! I just started Seasonique a week ago Sunday. I had started my period on Saturday and it was very light. I had missed my period the month before so was concerned I was starting menopause early. The Dr said no, my harmone levels were normal and I should start the pill on Sunday. I woke up in the middle of the night Sunday and started the worst period of my life. I didn't realize someone could lose so much blood.  I called the Dr from work on Monday and they told me to double up on the pills for 3 days. It did eventually slow down but I am still cramping and bleeding on day 9. I slept all weekend I am so tired and have no energy. I can't imagine going through this for weeks. May be I will switch Drs and drugs. I learned more here on this forum than from the brochures and Dr. Thank you!

[sldenault]

Oh my word...I'm supposed to start the Seasonique today...but now I'm too afraid...Dr. said it would help my mood swings and heavy periods.  Many years ago I took the pill and was sick to my stomache, tired and very very moody, all the time...My husband has had a vascectomy...so I don't need it for bc.  I think I will just wait it out...does'nt sound like much has changed!  Thank you so much for sharing your stories...!!

[anjeldivyn]

I am currently taking Seasonique and the only issue I have had is breast tenderness, I wear a bra to bed and two when I work out/ ride my horse. I completely skipped my period in the first month of taking it, no breakthrough bleeding and have actually found it has leveled out my moods quite nicely. I used to get murderously ticked about ANYTHING the week before my period and now I am just my usually chill self. I am lovin' it.

[kwoerd]

I've now been on Seasonique for 7 weeks and still bleeding. I've bleed all but 3 days since I started this pill. I'm trying to hang in there until I have my follow-up appt. this Friday, but it's been very trying. I really wanted this pill to work for me and I love the concept of this pill, but I'm at my breaking point. I was terribly irritatable and moody in the beginning, but that has finally subsided. But this bleeding has been horrible - full on heavy period style bleeding, not just occasional spotting.

[Saryn]

I have been on bc for about 12 years.  I took orthotricyclen for most of those years until about 8 months ago my new gyno suggested Seasonique to help with my migraines.  I thought it sounded great.  I was on Seasonique for 7 months and I literally got to the point where I thought I was going crazy.  I didn't know how to deal with life, I cried all the time, I wasn't motivated to do any of the normal things I did in life, etc.  I couldn't make myself function like my normal self.  My husband was going to check my into a mental health hospital.  The only change I had made in my life was the Seasonique.  I have been off it for about a month now and things have improved, however now I am suffering from such a bad hormonal inbalance.  I am taking natural supplements from my holistic dr. to try and get back on track.  I absolutely do not recommend taking this bc.  Think about it... our bodies are made to menstrate once a month.  What in the world are we doing to our hormones in order to stop our bodies from performing what is only natural?  Please think twice before taking this bc.  

[denmar68]

I was on Kariva (Mircette generic) for years (NEVER HAD ANY PROBS with this or any other BCP) and switched to Seasonique 9 weeks ago. For the last week I have had small spotting episodes, light cramping and weird, throbbing (but not debilitating) headaches that will not go away, even with taking Advil or Excedrin. I assume it's from the new pill. I will take the rest of the 13 week pack and then see if things improve. Anyone else have these problems?

[kwoerd]

I had a follow-up appt. with my OB-GYN on Friday and she decided to take me off of Seasonique. She said breakthrough spotting is very common, for up to 6 months. But in my case, it has not been breakthrough spotting - it has been constant, heavy bleeding. She said that I obviously need a pill with a higher dosage of progesterone, so I have switched to a different BC. If anyone experiences the constant, heavy bleeding that I experienced, I suggest you do not try to wait it out - call your doctor and switch rather than just hoping the bleeding will go away.

My doctor also told me that if I liked the concept of taking active pills consecutively and having only 4 periods each year, that method can be obtained using any BC that has 3 weeks of the same hormone levels. You simply keep taking the active pills and don't take the placebo pills. She said that method has been done for years for women with certain medical conditions. So if you're trying Seasonique for the 4 periods each year, you don't necessarily have to put up with the awful side-effects to achieve the lesser periods.

[smj3]

I started seasonique on 6/20/07 and everything has been going great up until the last week of August. I started a little spotting, then on 9/9/07 my period started, a week before it should. So far this is the worst effect as its been great so far (except for one more thing, the weight gain of 4 lbs. which my dr. says is just from me, although the packed clearly states it is a serious side effect and I should contact my dr.). I'm hoping as some people have stated, that on my next cycle my body will become use to the pills, and the weight will go away, if not I'm going to look into another pill and just take the active pills for 3 wks. I'm taking seasonique to control my moodiness, outbursts and it has helped TREMENDOUSLY!! In fact two weeks before yesterday, I noticed myself becoming moody and definately don't miss that every month. I'll see how long my period goes.

[0720]

I started seasonique at the end of July, 2007. It is now Sept. 10, and I have had bleeding for the entire time.  At first I was wearing panty liners but they were ineffective.  I am bleeding as if I have had a full blown period and wearing tampons and pads. I am calling my doctor to ask if this bleeding is normal.  This btb is not at all what I expected and I'm very disappointed in Seasonique.  If it continues I'm quitting this pill.  Anyone who has had similar bleeding?

[Lizzy0783]

This is my second week taking Seasonique, and I am experiencing different symptom then posted on this board. My first week taking these pills I had acid reflux so bad that I did not want to eat anything. I felt like I had a big piece of burning bread in my throat. I thought it was this other medicine I was taking for a bladder infection. However I am finished with that medicine, and still have the acid feeling. I don't know if it's just me, but after I take the pill in the morning I get that feeling. It's not as bad as the first week, I can handle it. But its annoying. I thought it was one of the symptoms that I would experience, but nowhere does it say acid reflux. Does anyone else have this symptom or I am the only one???

[kwoerd]

Hi 0720,
I had the exact same issue! I lasted 8 weeks on Seasonique and I finally just quit. 2 days after I started the pills, the bleeding began. And it wasn't just spotting - it was constant flow, like a typical period. Soaking a pad, not just a pantyliner! I kept taking the pill, telling myself to just stick with it and it would surely end soon. I had a scheduled appt. with my OB-GYN on 9/7, so I discussed the bleeding with her. She said that heavy bleeding is very common on Seasonique - for up to 6 months - but that almost 30% of women who take it quit before the bleeding can subside because it goes on for so long. I told her it wasn't worth it to me then. She said that women experiencing a lot of bleeding on Seasonique typically need a pill with a higher level of progesterone, so she switched me to Junel (I think that's the spelling?). I started the new pill on Sunday and after just 2 days, the bleeding is beginning to subside. I still have a little spotting and need a pantyliner, but it's not nearly what I had experienced for the past 8 weeks! I definitely think you might want to talk to your doctor and discuss any other options. The side effects of Seasonique just were not worth it to me. Good Luck!!

[0720]

Thanks kwoerd!

I did not get to call my doctor today but will tomorrow.  I agree with you that there has to be another option that will work for me.  This is not working. I appreciate your feedback. It is reassuring to know that  it's not just me.  Good luck to you and I'll post again after I see my dr.

[lal04]

I am on my 13th week taking seasonique and have been bleeding steady for the last 3 weeks.  No spotting before then and it is just now starting to lighten up.  I am taking seasonique after a friend told me about it and my periods started coming every 20 days and lasted a whole week.  I am 47 and plan to take this bc pill for a few years to get thru these peri-menapousal symptoms.  I had breast tenderness for a few days  but have not gained any weight.  I have been a little moody but cannot blame on seasonique at this point.  I plan to stick it out but appreciate the other ideas with other bc pills if it doesn't turn around after 6 months.

[AJD1981]

It is such a relief to read everyone's testimonials and know that I am not the only one experiencing weird side effects.  I read the whole pamphlet that came with my first pack of pills, and I never read anywhere that breast tenderness would be this intense.  I have been cramping for the past few days, possibly because I would have been getting my period now if I wasn't on Seasonique.  This is my first experience with any type of pill, and I have been making myself crazy thinking that I am pregnant because of this breast pain!  This is my 6th week on Seasonique and other than some spotting which made my initial starting period feel like it lasted forever, I haven't had any.  I really don't like reading about the painful periods a lot of people are experiencing on Seasonique since that is one of the reasons I wanted to start taking a pill in the first place.          

[ln9813]

About 4 weeks ago my Dr. switched me from Loestrin to Seasonique... At first I thought everything was great, but today I realized that it was about 4 weeks ago that I started having really strange headaches.  They are not exactly a miagrane yet they don't feel completely like a stress headache either.  However, i teach so that could definetly be the probelm.  I have been mood recently too.  I just thought it was the headache caused by stress.  Now, I am beginning to wonder if this could also be a side effect of Seasonique.  I agree with AJD1981 in that it is a relief to hear other peoples testimonials about side effects!

[audiogurl]

I am supposed to start Seasonique the first day of my next period, but now I am very nervous after reading these stories. My cramps and emotional episodes are so severe when I have my period, and after trying natural methods tha have failed I am going to use the pill as a last resort. It seems though that the side effects are just as bad if not worse then my symptoms. My Dr. said birth control has never been proven to cause weight gain? I recently just lost a lot of weight and after my hard work I'd hate to put it back on. Is it that the pill increases appitite or do you just gain? Idk, it seems like everyone's body is different so I will try and see.

[cat4918]

Wow- I am so glad that I am not alone!  I am 2 weeks into my 3rd month of Seasonique and I am having some significant spotting, which is a pain and inconvient, but doable.  The thing that is getting me is total loss of sex drive and the desire to be totally isolated from family and friends.  I thought that it was  my anti- depressent, but I never put the 2 together before now.  I had horrible periods that lasted 20 days...so I started this pill, and I couldn't understand way I didn't feel better emotionally, when I definitely felt better physically.  And No more crazy periods!  I should've been the happiest woman alive...but I went from having the sex drive of a 15 year old boy and dating 4 x a week, to 0 drive and staying home on the couch like a slug.  I was considering counseling, but now it sounds like it might be related.  It just doesn't make sense.  any thoughts?

[crvygurl]

I am halfway through the second month of Seasonique.  I had been experiencing no side-effects and thought this was the greatest pill ever.  Then, a little over a week ago, I was grocery shopping when blood started gushing out of me.  I had felt strange and very, very tired all day.  I was also having some cramps, but didn't think anything like that was going to happen.  It was awful, not to mention embarrassing.  Now the bleeding has slowed down to some spotting.  I've even had a couple of days with no spotting at all.  Every time I've attempted to have sex though, I start bleeding.    My boyfriend freaks out and thinks I'm hurt or dying and starts patting my head, etc.  My sex-drive is fine, but the bleeding is a real mood killer and it's starting to make me feel gross and undesirable.  Is anyone else experiencing this?

[AJD1981]

Well i commented earlier that I was only experiencing the breast tenderness, but a week later (end of week #7) I am in a completely different boat.  I have been bleeding nonstop (and yes it's more than spotting), I have horrible cramps that I had to miss a day of work for, and to make things worse, my gynocologists office is not answering the phone today!  I have also noticed that I have some weird headaches, bloating and been overly tired, I don't want to say for sure that Seasonique is the cause, but there is really nothing else to attribute it to.  For a pill that is supposed to cure all the PMS symptoms, it has unnecessarily intensified mine, and I shouldn't even have a "period" for another 6 weeks!  I hear ya with the bleeding being a mood killer too.  If it is that I'm not having sex because I'm doubled over in pain, then its because I am bleeding like crazy which doesn't make me feel too attractive.  I hope this subsides soon, I'm only giving it another few days to prove its worth to me!

[crvygurl]

Boy, I'm sorry to hear that.  I know what you're going through.  Yours hit you about the same time on the pill that it hit me.  I shouldn't say it, because I'm probably cursing myself, but today has been the first day that I have been "normal" in two weeks.  Tomorrow? Who knows with this pill.  I guess I'll hope for the best.  Hang-in there a little longer.  Hopefully it'll stop soon.  By the same token, I'm really thinking hard about whether I want to continue with this at all, as well.  It's completely unnatural feeling and, frankly, it's starting to creep me out.  I've been on birth control pills before, but I've never felt like this.  I think they're affecting my over all mood.  Not really irritable, or pms-y feeling,  but just weird.  I just feel weird.

[bali9612]

I'm on my 3rd month of Seasonique.  I started taking it for migraine headache, and it's been great.  I had no breakthrough bleeding until a little over a week ago, and I've had bleeding every day since - certainly not gushing but more than spotting.  My issue is night sweats - I take a lot of meds for migraine, but I haven't changed anything recently.  For the last several weeks I've had severe night sweats, and I'm wondering if it's the Pill.  I'm planning to stay on Seasonique because it's really helped my headaches, and I'm looking forward to the pill that never has a placebo week.  The night sweats are getting a bit unnerving, and I'm hoping that they, like the bleeding, will stop in time.

[lilaevangeline]

Wow... all these stories... my gyn has been pushing seasonique to me (a little too hardcore if you ask me) and I've been putting it off for a few cycles. I was going to start it this time around but I just don't see the point, my period is already much heavier than i would like, but id rather have it a couple days a month than bleed for 3 weeks straight. Does anyone have any good stories about seasonique or any pros that would make this bc worth taking?

[omsam]

I started Seasonque Aug 13 everything was great till I forgot one freaking pill and since then blood for a month now... Ihave decided to take measures on my own because I do not like that the Dr just said you will get normal sooner or later and I started taking one pill inthe am and one at night until it subsides and my next apt....I am not sure how this will effect me or if it will even work but I hate break through bleeding....I heard someone say something about Junel? higher hormones maybe I should try that?

[annie03]

I started seasonique five weeks ago following the birth of my daughter.  I've had two episodes of break-through bleeding so far, and the current one has been eight days and counting.  It's been as heavy, or worse at times, than a period.  I've had other problems with bloating, cramps, and weight gain (hopefully related to water retention!).  I've been on and off the pill for about 11 years now (levlin, ortho tri-cyclen, etc), and have never experienced any of these types of symptoms on other pills.  Also, I'm getting canker sores... has anyone else had this symptom?  I have gotten them with other pills, but not so soon after starting.  So, I think I'm going to get off seasonique, but am not sure if I should stick it out until the end of this pack.  Maybe if I ever stop bleeding........

[kkust]

I have always had heavy periods. After my last yearly my gyn recommended Seasonique. Seven weeks into I started having what I thought was a normal period, but the pain started increases each day. After the third day I was so bloated none of my pants fit. That weekend I passed about 25 golf ball size clots and felt instant relief. On Monday, I went to see my gyn. He said it was a common side effect to have breakthrough bleeding, and the pill has a 60% failure rate. He said I would be safe to go on vacation for July 4th, but would still be bleeding. After getting to the vacation destination, the bleeding became severe. I would bleed through a super absorbant tampon and overnight pad in 30 minutes. Then the bleeding would completely stop, and the pain would become severe. Then I would start passing massive clots. This cycle happened four times before my husband found me unconscious choking on my vomit in the bathroom. I was taken to the ER, where they discovered I had lost half the blood in my body. A normal hemoglobin count is 12-16. Mine was 7.2. How does a perfectly healthy 31 year old mother of 2 end up in a hospital dying on family vacation? They gave me blood transfusions, and enough drugs to travel home. Once home, I had a DNC to have all the clots removed. It has been a long recovery process, and I am just starting back to work full time. I have switched back to my faithful YAZ.

[WT1343]

I just got an email last week about ladies,blood clots and seasonique. I am taking myself off of it now  bc it was also a 31 year old woman who was healthy. I was on Seasonale for almost 2 years and i loved it but my ob/gyn gave me seasonique 3 weeks ago and i think it is making me sick. I have noticed fatigue, irritability,bloating, gas, and heartburn. I have been on Effexor as well and thought it was that so I had my doctor take me off last week. I think now it was not Effexor and it is Seaseoniqe???

[nad22]

Hello,

I was wondering if Seasonale helped you with your endometriosis symptoms?

[blueeyes4u]

I was wondering if Seasonique has helped anyone with their endometriosis/fibriod problems.... I am only 28 and in the past year i am on my 2nd gyno. It seems they have tried everything to try and help my problems. I have been on the lupron shots (menopause)...didn't work, I have had a lapoprascopy (spelling)....only helped for short period of time, I have been on 2 or 3 different bc pills and this summer 6/07 I started with seasonique and I kept having bleeding...still. In fact recently I bled for 5 weeks straight and finally went to the dr and she gave me a DNC. Didn't even know it would be that painful. She took out a bunch of clots and now she has me taking two pills a day, one in the morning and one at night. i have stopped bleeding since (its been one week exactly)...but I just would like to know what the best thing for me to do is??? I want children soo bad one day but I keep getting told I need to probably hurry...but not in a serious relationship at this point. Just scared and want to make sure I am not the only one out there!! I have endometriosis and 2 fibriod tumors when they checked me again this summer. I just feel like I have done everything,nothing working, and now just crossing my fingers that this is the answer!! Someone mentioned that Seasonique isn't "good" for fibroids...any other comments out there?? Any suggestions??

[baileyblue]

I am in the middle of my 7th week and have been bleeding since week 5--so basically about 18 days straight so far.  On and off cramping and my boobs have seemed to double in size.  I keep hearing about loss of libido,which I feel almost opposite in that respect.  I am sticking it out until I finish another pack if I can manage!

[Kamicryze]

Okay, I started BC for the first time in a few years.  Dr. put me on Seasonique and by week 2, I started my period.  It was heavy and lasted for about a week and a half.  I decided to try to jump off for 3 days, but there was no change, so I got back on it for 3 more days.  If anything, my period got worse!  The cramps were so strong and I was going insane with all the blood.  I also experienced HUGE clots in those last few days.  After reading up here and other places, I decided I need to make a change.  I checked the active hormone in Seasonique and called my OBGYN.  I asked him to put me on Ortho Tri-Cyclen because it has a different hormone and I had success with it years ago when I had a different Dr.  I'm on my 3rd day of Ortho and I'm almost COMPLETELY over my period.  THANK GOD.  I was going insane.  Girls, don't suffer through this if it's not working for you.

[Kamicryze]

I'm so sorry you went through that.  It's scary to me because I had many of the symptoms you had.  The bleeding was less severe, but heavy nonetheless.  After almost 3 weeks of a period that got worse and worse, I'm so glad I found this site and others that CONFIRMED I needed to switch.  I'm glad you're better, but infuriated that you had to go through it.  I wish you well.

[melbrel]

I'm glad I found this.  I am on my 10th MONTH of seasonique.   I started taking it because of my active schedule..and I liked the idea of only having 4 periods.  The first month was fine...no issues...then the break through bleeding started....I always thought this just meant spotting...nothing too bad...but it was so much I had to wear tampons...When I called the gyno they said it was common and that it would go away in a few months.  I am now bleeding more!  It's really like a full blown period....Usually I get no bleeding in the first new month after I get my period...but this month it's crazy..I feel like I'm bleeding worse then my periods!....I was so nervous I was pregnant or something....This is not a good pill to be on...and they can't tell you that bleeding non stop for a year is healthy or good for you.    

So here's what else I've noticed

=EXTREME MOOD SHIFTS  -I get angrier easier and more often...

VISION - My contacts are constantly blurry...I kept throwing them out thinking they were old!

NO SEX DRIVE- I hardly ever want it....one because I feel gross from bleeding...and then I just don't want it

WEIGHT GAIN- minimum..not too bad

I'm switching as soon as these pills are done!  

[northcarolinagirl]

I stopped Seasonique three days ago because I have gained 15 pounds with it from May to September.  It has all accumulated in my upper abdomen and stomach just like when I was pregnant.  The weight stilI packed on even after watching what I was eating and exercising. Never before have I had this kind of trouble keeping my weight down. I am moody with absolutely no sex drive and have feelings of dread and constant worry for no reason.  This is all out of character for me.  My lips are chapped all the time and I have night sweats.  I am relieved to have found other people having the same side effects - I thought I was losing my mind.  I can't wait for it to get out of my system and go back to my old faithful Ortho Novum 777.    Hope this helps someone else.

[Marxblonde]

I started seasonique two weeks ago and had no bleeding nor any other symptoms until a couple of days ago when I started to feel very anxious to the point of loosing my mind. I'm too embarressed to go into detail, but I was out of control. I have NEVER acted or felt that way before. The only changes I've made in my life recently was this pill. Has any one else had these feeling to this extreme? I'm calling my doctor tomorrow regardless and switching pills. Just need to know that I'm not really loosing my mind.

[Kamicryze]

Yeah!  I cried for half an hour HARDCORE one night until I fell asleep.  The reason: The Chinese Food place I wanted to go to closed 15 minutes before I got there.  I went to bed without eating.  I was acting very irrational.

[Marxblonde]

Thanx for comment, I'm definately getting off this pill!

[swimJenn]

I just started seasonique a few weeks ago (was on seasonale before and my gyn gave me a sample of seasonique), and I have had HORRIBLE headaches almost every single day?  Anyone else have this problem and how long am I supposed to wait for it to go away?  The headaches are to the point that I cant read, and thats not very helpful when I'm in school.

[sms1221]

I'm 18, and I started using Seasonique so that I didn't have any periods when I went to do mission work in Africa for three months. I ended up not going to Africa because I got mono, but I was on the pill for almost 4 weeks when I started to notice side effects- constant depression and anxiety and strange cramps daily. I got off it because I felt uncomfortable, and now I realize that I too had sore breasts and weight gain (about 3 pounds). I don't need birth control, so I got off the pill altogether about 3 weeks ago, but now I feel like my body is totally out of whack. For the past week I've had a constant clear discharge (something I usually get right after my period for a couple of days, but my last period was literally the day after I got off the pill) and a high sex drive. I feel super uncomfortable in my own body, and I'm having to use pads because the discharge won't stop. I don't know if the pill made my hormones go crazy and I need to give it time or if I should try supplements or something. Has anyone experienced this? Please, I need help!

[WendyT]

I was taking Seasonique for the past 9 months and decided to take myself off of it.  I am so glad to hear a lot of people were having night sweats, moodiness (yes that feeling of dread and I am going to die from some horrible disease), gassy, heartburn, cramps, and feeling achy and tired all the time.  I am very active and didn't want to do anything.  I thought it was stress but when I went off the pills I started feeling better a few days later.  It is been two weeks and I am still not 100% but much better. I guess it will take a while to get this out of my system. My hormones are still out of whack. This pill is not worth taking.

[chandlerrough]

I am a freshman in college, 18 years old. I started taking Seasonique thinking fewer periods would make my life easier... I CANNOT STOP CRYING. I know that it's normal to miss home and it takes time to adjust, but this is ridiculous. My grades are great, I've gotten through Midterms with great results, I have tons of friends, love the crew team, love the school, the city, everything. I visit museums, eat out, go to concerts. I'm going to church, keeping in touch with my wonderful family, everything... Basically, my life was a Norman Rockwell painting - I just couldn't stop feeling sad. I would cry randomly about anything – literally five to ten times a day. I just talked to my mother and she is SO relieved to hear that my crazy mood could be from the pill. It makes so much sense. My parents were being so supportive, but feeling so confused – it was like I was a different person.

I joined the crew team, which is a Division 1 sport at a top-ranked school, and I haven't gained weight numerically, but I've noticed the "puffy" feeling that seems to be common on this thread. I know the "freshman 15" could be affecting this, but I'm working out for a MINIMUM of 3 hours a day (lifting, heavy cardio), meeting with a nutritionist (required), eating very healthy and not losing weight. This basically indicates that I would have gained weight on this pill, had I not joined crew.

I'm not a headache person, but I have noticed the weird cramps. I don't have vision problems, but I am getting the night sweats and feeling "out of place" in my body. I also have been gassy and had stomach and acid reflux issues.

DON'T make the same mistake I did and blame all of these things - mood swings, depression, anxiety, crying, weight gain, gas, bloating, and fatigue - on COLLEGE... It could be school, but if you have the strange feeling (like I did) that something is wrong, it's worth a shot to think about how your hormones are being affected by the pill.  Good luck - please email me at ***@**** if you want to talk about this more -- I'd love to get more info/feedback on what you think!

[bettertomorow]

I'm only on my 2nd week of Seasonique and was prescribed this for PMDD.    I feel like I'm sick and I am itching all over.   I also have severe sweating at night.    I don't know whether to keep going to stop taking it before the bleeding everyone describes starts.    I has helped my PMDD.   Normally I would be very angry this time of the month.  I'm not.   I'm just extremely tired and itching all over.   No one else has described this.   Am I alone?

[Anna8383]

I started taking taking seasonale 6 weeks ago. In the first 4 weeks everything was fine I felt nothing. Then on week when I took my first pill next day I started spotting, so I was like ooh ok well I read something about this it should go away in few days. Well it’s been 11 days and I’m bleeding/spotting some brown crap…I get hot flashes in the morning and in the mid of the night. The first day I stared spotting I stared feeling lower belly and back pain. As the days went by the pain only got stronger to the point I had to going into the bathroom at work and cry because I didn’t know what to do. The reason I went on this because I have endometriosis…and this should have helped me with the pain and to stop my period…I’m ready to give up on this…

[cara10]

I've been on seasonique for about 3 months now. I'm taking the yellow pills. I've been bleeding the entire way through this package though! Like everyone has been saying, it was not just spotting but heavy bleeding and now with the yellow pills at the end I'm bleeding and it doesn't seem to stop! Should I even start the next pack and see if things get better or should I quickly ask for a different pill? So much for the idea of no period for 3 months...for me it's like a 3 month long period that seems to get heavier every day!

[rica2]

Well I went to the Obgyn in August and told them I was having apinful menstral cycle so they gave me seasonique said would help. Yeah right, My cycle started on sunday so took the pill on that day 9am and i had cramping the cramping never left was there kinda like a dull pain. The spotting never left, my blaoting was horrible, i gained 4 lbs on it, sex drive went down, more acne, SORE breast everyday couldn't touch, and did I mention I felt like someone was stabbing my lower abdomianl stomach right on my ovaries for 4 days. I went to ER because I thought something was wrong, they did all test and said nothing was wrong go home. I have two kids my hubby had a vasectomy so I just wanted it for pain , I felt like I was on my period for 2.5 months i finally stopped taking it Saturday morning since I was bleeding like crazy and the abdominal pain was worse i was also very irritable and moody , I felt better today  the breast aren't so sore, bleeding still there but expect it no more abdominal cramps. I seen so many experience this why do they stil have the pill out? I would rather have my periods and know when when i start then to worry all the time about pain and bleeding so inconvient. thanks for letting me know that I wasn't the only one feeling this way.

[AJD1981]

Well I am now on my first pill period with Seasonique.  I haven't experienced any more bleeding since I last wrote until this period.  Just the usual night sweats, and headaches, which is nothing compared to the way I felt before.  I thought that Seasonique was supposed to keep me from having cramps with my period, but I actually have them worse with this pill than I do some months without it.  I went to refill my prescription yesterday and found out that my insurance (which is usually really good) declined to pay for it so it was going to cost me $180.  No thanks.  I'd like to think that there are people out there who don't experience side effects and therefore have no need to seek out these  discussion boards regarding the issues, but I'm pretty sure no one could have a positive experience with any aspect of this pill.  Needless to say I declined to pay for it too.  I'm picking up my prescription for Loestrin 24 today.  Wish me luck!

[CAAI]

Ok, this question may have already been addressed, but I was wondering if anyone using Seasonique was experiencing low sex drive?  Over a year ago I went on Yasmin, and a couple months into taking it, I felt like my sex drive went basically to nothing, when it had originally been perhaps more than average.  I decided to switch to Seasonique about 3 months ago or so (so it may be too early to see any real results), but definitely nothing has changed.  It's not like I've seen any bad effects...no significant spotting, mood swings, etc...mainly just the sex drive.  Is it my birth control, or just being in a relationship for 2 years?  But I am only 22...aren't we supposed to be young and "horny" all the time?  It just tears me up...I so much miss wanting to have sex, and my boyfriend is not too fond of it either.  Has anyone else experienced low libido when taking Seasonique?  And if so...are there any pills that DON'T lower libido?  Thank you!!!!

[BDsBabyGirl]

I am midway thru week 12 and have been bleeding since midway thru week 9. Before the so-called "breakthru" bleeding, I had no other negative symptoms and was loving it! Now, after reading thru this forum, I'm not so sure. My insurance doesn't cover this pill and since the lack of periods was why I started it yet I'm having an extended one, it's not worth another $200 for 3 more months. I'm now going to switch to a pill my insurance does cover and just skip the placebos, paying only for the extra packs.  Good luck, everyone!

[swimchick]

I started on Seasonique in Sept.  Everything was fine for the first month.  Then I missed one pill (doubled up the next day) and since then have basically had heavy spotting for the last month.  Has anyone with this problem stuck it out?  I'm willing to try, but was wondering if anyone else with this issue saw improvements after starting a new pack.  Will a new pack give me a "fresh start?"

[beckyjdo]

I started Seasonique almost 3 packs ago.  I now have blood clots in my lungs.  I have never smoked, and I have none of the other risk factors.  When I was prescribed Seasonique, I read this forum, worrying about things like weight gain and sex drive, but I never worried about blood clots.  I was told they were not a concern for me, and I didn't educate myself about what it really meant to have them.  Surely, I thought, it would be an obvious condition if it came on.  But it isn't.  I took Seasonique for PMDD.  I don't mean to scare anyone.  Just wish I had educated myself fully about what it means to have Pulmonary Embolism so that I could have weighed the risk instead of overlooked it.  

[Lizzy0783]

I am on my 3rd month week 10 of taking Seasonique the only side effects I have had were the mood swings, headaches. However for about 4 days now I have started to bleed, and have cramps. Not heavy bleeding but enough to use protection. I thought about stopping the pill, but I think I might just ride it out. I did miss one pill sat and double up on sunday. But the bleeding is driving me crazy. Am I bleeding because I missed a pill? I have missed a pill in the past and double up the next day, I never did have bleeding. On a good note it was nice not having my period for 2 months.

[Sylvie1023]

I have ALWAYS had super-heavy periods....since I was 12 years old.....GOD I hated gym class.  I wore super heavy protection and it would still be rolling down my legs by the end of kickball or whatever.  The humiliation.....I was told that after I had a baby, things would settle down...yeah right...my daughter was born and she just turned 21.  My life is still dictated by my period....I am 44 years old.  I finally had the fortune to actually meet with my gynecologist (the actual doctor!!) and she said I was a perfect candidate for the Novasure procedure.  You ladies can do the research and check out the forums....it seems like the ladies with problems - cysts, endometriosis, etc. - seem to have problems with the procedure.  I started taking Seasonique 9 weeks ago.....I have been bleeding/spotting/gushing for 5 weeks.  In all of my years, I have never actually soiled myself, but guess what.....yeah, I was in a social situation, and a huge gush and I was wearing light pants....I won't be returning to that social group any time soon....I am so disappointed I can't even elaborate here in words....I will graduate again from college in May 2008...I plan to have my Novasure procedure done by then.  And if all goes well, I won't be running to the bathroom and carrying copious amounts of feminine protection any longer....

[Marly74]

I started taking seasonique in September 2007 ,and the first side effects were mood swings. I started spotting but in about a week or so it stopped. In October the bleeding began again, I thought well by this timee I should be getting my period ; so my body is just reacting to that. It is now  November and i am still spotting more than ususal. I don't have to much of a sexdrive because I start to bleed  (who the hek would enjoy having sex like that). I am getting of the pill this Sunday; I rather get my period monthly, and know that I wont have any spotting during month.

[Lizzy0783]

Have you talked to your doctor before deciding to get off the pill.. I like you started in September of 07 and had no bleeding, then all of a sudden last Saturday I started to spot bleed, which turned into a regular period bleeding. I can't even think about sex right now. Like you I would rather have my period monthly then go through this **** every month. I am calling my doctor today and seeing what they say. I feel (bloated, cramps) as if I have my period and I have 2 weeks before I take the yellow pills. It really sucks!!

[Marly74]

No I didn't talk to my doctor yet, I'm scheduled to see him in December to see how this method of b/c turned out .You know what's funny? I decided to get off the pill last night, and I went to the mighty bag of maxi pads again  : ) because I knew for sure that I was going to start spotting way more than I was already spotting, and to my surprise there was nothing! So go figure.....I guess it's meant to be for women to have their monthly period; or we are just that 1 out of  3 women that the pill isn't compatible with. I think it's great that someone came up with the idea for women to get 4 periods a year, but they really need to perfect this idea before I am optimistic again to consider on getting back on this type birth control.

[ARS571]

I am experiencing exactly the same side-effects - I am 25 and went from having a very high sex drive to none at all.  Its taken me several months to put two and two together as I had no idea that decreased sex drive was a side effect of birth control.  Are you still taking Seasonique?  If not, have your hormones seemed to have leveled back to normal?  I am debating whether to finish taking this pack (I have a month left) or to quit taking it right away.  

[Lizzy0783]

I talked with a friend from work who is taking Seasonal (same thing) and she said that it takes up to a year for your body to get used to the pill. I have  the bleeding as lighten up a lot since writing my post. My sexdrive is still low, however I know it was because of the bleeding. I have decided to stay on and see how it goes.  

[Marly74]

I hope everything goes well for you. Since I stopped taking the pill I believe what I'm having now is my normal period, I hope it last my typical 5 days, because I have the urge to have intimacy with my husband (lol). I'm just going to wait and see how it turns out.

[chikki_cherry]

I have a question...
I am on my last week of pills in the pack and should be getting my period.  With my last bc I didn't usually get it until I was 4 days into my "off" week.  Today was day 4 and I've had cramps all this time and yet no sign of my period.  Did anyone else have these issues? Is my period suppose to take this long to come? I would think after 3 months of going with out it would be at my door in a hurry...
Thx...
L

[MrsBloom]

I started taking Seasonique at my OB/GYN's recommendation.  I had just stopped breast feeding my 3rd child.  At 41 I questioned if this was a wise option, but since I was in such excellent health I was told it would be quite safe.  I was considering other permanent options, so at her suggestion I took a sample packet to see it I liked and to think about the other methods available.  After taking only 3/4 of the first pack I began to feel back pain, then the next day sharp stabbing chest pains.  I was rushed to the ER to discover I had suffered a bilateral pulmonary embolism - multiple blood clots in both lungs.  I was admitted and kept there for 5 painful days.  My embolism surprised the doctors because of my young age (yes they called me young), too young for a natural blood clot!  I have never smoked, never had an accident or surgery and no family history of cancer or blood clots.  The only factor was Seasonique.  

Please pay close attention to your bodies, if you feel something out of the ordinary, get it checked out.  A dear friend of mine was not so lucky, like myself, she developed a blood in her leg, but hers traveled to her heart.  She died.  She hadn't been taking Seasonique, but she had just changed brands at her doctor’s advice!

[KJB1]

I was on Seasonique for 5 weeks before I was in the hospital with a blood clot that went from the bottom of my knee to the top of my thigh. It was also in both of my lungs.

[Colbee84]

Today is my second day of yellow pills....last time I was only on yellow pills for like a day and then the next morning I started my period.  I am also taking Topamax for migraines. I am worried that I haven't started yet. How long does it usually take everyone else to start when on their yellow pills?

[girlgottaknow]

Hi, I a 21 year old female, I have been taking seasonique for nearly 6 months now. I like seasonique because of the not getting a period for awhile because i have grusome pain and lots of heavy bleeding during a period. I have not noticed any loss in libido and have found a lot of positives from the pill however, I have hained about 7 pounds, and have had some bad vision probles....


reducing your periods to only four times a yearcan be a very good thing or a bad thing. The first cycle i took it, i spotted the whole way through and had expected that it would happen like that.
However I am on my second cycle and have been with my boyfriend for a little over a year now, and the past two weeks my pills have been taken horrifcally off times, and a week ago i missed two pills. My boyfriend and I do not use any protection, and I have been wondering what the chances are I would be pregnant, I was going to stop to get a tes today but I am swamped with classes and presentations. Any advice or previous experiences from someone who has been on seasonique? Given, period are spread out, ovulation is well, unpredictable and normally out of whack on these pills. So any info you have would be grand, thanks.

[Lizzy0783]

First off let me make it clear that I am in no way passing judgment on you. However after reading your text on the message board, I felt compelled to respond. If you missed two pills and did have sex in between then you could get pregnant. You should go to the doctor or a clinic and get checked out. Second please take my advice and USE BACK UP PROTECTION!!!!! Even if you are taking this birth control it is still a good decision to use a condom. There are other diseases out there. It doesn’t matter if you are with a guy for one year or three years, use protection if you are not trying to have a baby. My boyfriend and I have been together for almost 5 years. We intend to get married in the next two years we still use a condom and the pill  because we don’t are not ready to have  little Eric’s or little Beth’s running around. Condoms are not that expensive. If there is a problem with the size of the condom, they make them in XL. Remember birth control pills are only 99.9 percent effective, is good to use o forms of birth control. Anyway that’s my advice. :)

[HelensMelons]

I took Seasonique for 6 months.  It completely, entirely killed my libido.  I went from having a very healthy, high libido, to having literally none at all.  Kind of ironic considering that the reason I started taking Seasonique was because I wanted to be able to have unprotected sex with my boyfriend.  Now I have no interest in sex at all.  

I didn't have any kind of "real" period while I was on Seasonique.  I did experience some swollen lymph nodes.  My breasts also became much, much more sensitive on Seasonique--and not in a good way.  Other than that, there was just the complete loss of my sex drive.  I decided to stop taking the pill after my 2nd pill pack (6th month), because I started doing some research about the libido loss issue, and found that many pills cause it, some potentially permanently.  This was not a matter of "my body getting used to the pill."  This was a serious, potentially permanent side effect.  Thanks so much to my doctor for never even mentioning that possibility.  Much obliged.

I started my first real period today, for the first time in over 6 months.  My body feels totally wiped out, like it's making up for lost time.  

Just my two cents--hope it helps some of you out there.

[Julimi]

Thank God I'm not the only one dealing with problems with Seasonique. I'm on my 4th week of pills and pretty much from the first week, I got severely bloated and had bad headaches. The headaches have subsided but, my pants still don't fit, I have acid relux everyday, and my libido is shot. I was fearful that I may be pregnant, but after reading what everyone has said, I'm thinking it's just the Seasonique. I'm going to take a pregnancy test anyway, just to be sure, but I feel a bit better knowing that it's probably just the pills. I used to take Ortho-Tricylclen when I was younger and it did not have these side effects. Maybe it's time to go back to basics and go with the Ortho again. I don't think I want to try to stick it out and go through what some of the women on here have gone through. Thanks everyone for the enlightenment!

[Lizzy0783]

I too experienced acid reflux. I am on my second pack of pills however I found out that there is a generic for seasonique it is called Quasense and it costs only 45.00 per pack. My first pack was Seasonique and on that I have stomach pains, headaches, acid reflux, spotting and bloating. My boyfriend and I both liked the fact that I did not get my period for 2 months; however I was not sure because of the side effects taking this pill was worth it. I stated this new pack a week ago and feel really good. The only thing I have had is stomach aches right after taking the pill, but they do go away in an hour or so. I would say stick with it give it a couple months, then after the pack is done decide if you want to continue to use it.

[Talynn74]

I too am on seasonique and have noticed a few things but never thought it was the pill because I was on other medication as well.  The thing I DO like is that I get my period every 3 months and this past period was a breeze, light and not bad at all.  OK, now to the part I don't like, i do feel as I have been eating a bit more and have gained some weight and also my moods have been differet but also I noticed that deodorants don't seem to work 9if you know what I mean) it's no like a BO smell but it's definitly not a great smell either and also (now embarrising part) he had told me it is different down there, the smell.. I have never had a problem before EVER until my doctor switched me to this pill. My question is, has anyone else experienced this as well. I have been reading and readin on here to see but no one has mentioned it and I thought maybe people we embarrassed by it and not mentioned it, so maybe I can break the ice and hope someone else is going thru this too.  Maybe this way i will not feel like this anymore.

[Ruby30]

I have been reading all of your posts and I would love nothing more than to get the word out that this is bad stuff... I had nothing but trouble from jump. I had surgery in October and my OBGYN found endometriosis. Ok.. He put me on seasonique to take care of that and the bonus was no periods for 3 months. In the first week I went up a full cup size in my bra and I was so moody nobody wanted to be around me. By the 3rd week I was bleeding and didn't stop for a full 9 weeks. My doctor kept telling me to get past that first three months and it would all be ok! He even called me in some meds that he said would stop the bleeding! No luck. I just kept calling and letting him know that this wasn't worth it. The troubles of painful periods once a month were better than bleeding every single day of my life! He called me last week, changed me to a different pill and said he was sorry. It isn't worth it. I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy. You are not made to skip periods. Just remember that if it sounds to good to be true.... IT IS!

[Lizzy0783]

I just want to say a couple of things. I took Seasonique for 3 months. In those 3 months yes I did have the out of now where bleeding, or when it was time to get my period I had it for 7 days instead of 3 days like it states. I asked my doctor about all these stories that I am hearing about people getting blood clots, or non-stop bleeding. He said every body’s bodies are different. If there is history of heart disease in your family, get checked out before you take the pill. Also the bleeding will stop. Your body has to get used to the pill. Another thing, you can do the same thing with regular birth control. It’s pretty much the same pill just that every month you don’t take the sugar pills; you take them every 3rd month. This is my second pack I am now taking Quasense, which is the generic of Seasonique (much cheaper then Seasonique). I haven’t had any bleeding yet and I am starting my second month. I understand that everyone is just relaying their experiences on this board; however I feel that some of these stories are scaring away people from this pill. Before taking this pill talk to you doctor. This pill is a great gift to women who suffer  monthly with their periods. I can’t tell you how many times I was in bed for a week, sick with cramps, bloating, and mood swings. It sucks getting through the first pack, but it will get better.

[Ruby30]

In all fairness, your first few posts here were backing up that this pill sucks! However, you are right about the fact that everyone is different and family history is something everyone should look into before starting any medication at all. That is what we pay our doctors for and why we fill out TONS of papers when you go to the doctor, so they can make sure they don't prescribe us something that will do more damage than good. On the other side, nobody knows your body like you. I knew that the Seasonique was not ok from the first few weeks, but when the doctor said get past the first 3 months, I thought I had to give it a chance. There are some people that can not take this pill or any of the generics either. I think it is important that we not scare people from trying it but at least make them aware. I was the same as you, in bed for a week, sick with cramps and all that. I am a mother of two and a needy husband so something had to be done! This just wasn't the answer for my body. I just want people to have the info that I did not have when I started. These are the things your doctor doesn't tell you. They get you excited over the "one period every three months" and SOME people will have break through bleeding... They should tell you MOST people will bleed and all the other stuff too.....

[CAAI]

Sorry - it has been awhile since I've checked on this site - I am still on Seasonique, mainly because I don't feel like going through the hassel of changing pills yet again.  No change in the libido - it is still non-existent basically.  What about you?...Are you still on the pill?  Any changes?

[Talynn74]

Well, I havent recieved a response for my post but I decided to get off the seasonique. It's been around 4 day now but now I have my period, is this normal? I am sure it is, how long will it last though? Now I am nervous I will have the never ending period!  Anyway, Any insight will help at all, Thanks
Tara

[bratt414]

hey, im 19 years old and I started taking seasonique in september and finished my first pack 3 weeks ago and im on the second. so far its been great...no breakthrough bleeding at all until i got closer to when i was supposed to get my period. my only question is i started taking this pill to decrease the pain i get with normal periods and with this pill it was heavy the entire week and it went on and off around the 4th day and i was in pain by the second day....worse than my normal period. could this be because my body is adjusting to the change or is this just not normal?

[webigale]

I have been using seasonique for 3 months now, and I am on the last week, I am currently on my period, I am not bleeding much at all, but I am cramping so bad right now worse than I ever have. I had no side effects during the time i wasnt on my period though.

[NSSSGRMS]

I've been on seasonique since July. I haven't had a lot of problems, but I have noticed more of a liquid discharge during the time when my normal period would happen? Has anyone experienced this>

[Spotter30days]

I have been on Seasonique for 8 full weeks and 2 days.  I have been spotting for about 30 days.  Nothing to bad but it is aggravating. A panty liner is fine.  In response to Talynn74, I have also noticed an odor at times and that worries me.  I have never had that kind of problem.  I am hoping maybe it is the constant build up of blood and that once that stops (If it stops) I will be back to normal. Has anyone else had an odor problem?

[Talynn74]

I have been on seasonale, then my doctor switched me to seasonique and it seems since I have been on this it has changed my body. I never had the break through bleeding that some has had but that is probably the only side effect I didn't get. When I called my doctor (gyno) I told the woman that works there and she said she has never had anyone complain about that pill and the doctor has a lot of people on it. I am thnking that a lot of people don't asscioate things that happen with the pill esp if they got switched from seasonale to seasonique because they figure they are both the same.  I can honestly say they are both not the same, I remember my husband talking to my neurologist talking to him about my sudden change of appetite (I was complaining about it a lot on all I do is eat) and my neurologist said it has to be a certain med I am on, I wasn't on anything different (so i thought) BUT thinking about it now, that's what my problem was. I think I am finially over my period so I haven't noticed if the scent is gone, plus my mood has been better, I am still a bit tired but I am tired all the time anyway. How long should it take for the hormones to be gone from your body?  Thanks for the reply..
Tara

[HeatherLynn]

The OBGYN says that I have endometriosis. He has done and ultrasound and found nothing.  I am 36.

I am the last day of the first month of the Seasonique pack. I just started spotting today. I noticed it when I wiped.  Popped a tampon in and it was just tad in on it.  This is the first time that I have been on Seasonique.  I was given a sample three month pack by doctor after being on the monthly Low-Ogesteral. I had some spotting on that too but it went away. I hear that they are the same.  Should I really be concerned about my first day of spotting. I am waiting a week to see how it goes before I call the doc or take two pills a day to stop the spotting.  

Any feedback?

Thanks,
HeatherD

[diaphoni]

I think I'm at least 3 months preg. now.  I've been on seasoneque for about a year.  I haven't had a period in 6 months, just some light spotting when I ran out this time. but a home preg test comes back neg and i wonder if the pill could cause that.  
my symptoms while on it mimic what you all have to a t including chest pain i chalked up to anxiety attacks.
now though, i've gain weight like i'm preg in the front, I have a constant  pressure on my 'seat', when I roll on my side i can feel the weight of a 'lump' that moves and settles on to the side I'm on and i'm sure i've felt 'flutters'
help I'm almost scared to call the doctor

[Nik1976]

Has anyone experienced problems after going off these pills?  I was on Seasonale and then Seasonique for almost two years.  I gained weight, lost all sex drive, became deeply depressed for no reason, had blurred vision and the spotting was out of control.  It was so heavy, I felt like I had traded in a regular monthly period for one that lasted three weeks out of the month.  I waited it out, thinking it would all pass as my body got used to the pills, but it got worse and I finally decided to stop taking any bc pills altogether for a while and let my body get back to normal...only it hasn't.  I have been off of it since last May and I've still had nothing but problems.  I spot for almost a week before my period, and lately I've had clear discharge that's so constant I can't leave the house without a pantyliner (not so sexy, let me tell ya.)  My periods are not regular at all, which is equally annoying.  I've found all of your comments really helpful - it's nice to know I'm not the only one who had those problems on the pill!  But I'm wondering if anyone out there has gone off of it and is still experiencing problems??

[DeeDee303]

I forgot to take two pills in a row and started spotting.  I resumed the pills right away.  How long will the spotting last?  It's been 7 days so far.
Thanks,

[paige30]

Has anyone had irritable bowel-like symptoms that have just seemed to all of the sudden "appear" when you never had irritable bowel symptoms before when you first started taking Seasonique? I started taking it in November, and at the beginning of January, I began having terrible IBS symptoms to the point where I am needing to seek treatment. Also, I have had night sweats. I am going to get off of this pill and go back to the Nuva Ring because I feel awful. No breakthrough bleeding, just some light brown mucus discharge when I go to the bathroom. Can anyone else relate?

[Bon28]

Hey all. After reading this forum I'm thinking about getting off Seasonique. I got on it because my periods are always really heavy and terrible, and then for birth control, in case I wanted to have sex. I was on my first pack and at first I got really terrible stomach pains and nausea, but had read it in the symptoms and it went away.

By the third month (last month in pack) I was bleeding! I bled for at least 3 weeks, and I think I stopped a week before my placebos. At the time I was told by my doctor it was just my body adjusting. However, I'm now on the last month of my 2nd pack, and I've been bleeding for 2 weeks. Its not as terrible as my regular periods, but TWO WEEKS. With no signs of stopping. I've also noticed that for these past 2 weeks I've been getting terrible headaches, and I never get headaches.

And like others have said, I have NO sex drive at all. I don't even want to be close to anyone.

And is it true the pill can alter your feelings? I thought part of it was just stress from college (I'm a freshman) but I cry in my room for an hour or two several nights a week over little things..

[Ariel2008]

I'm 17 and I'm on my second pack of seasonique i haven't had the heavy or long periods like alot of you but i've gained 10+ lbs and i cry and get upset about every thing. My mom just got an email today that said seasonique can cause really bad things like brain anruisums. (i hope i spelled that right or at least so you know what it says)  I found this forum looking for more information and i think i will be getting off as soon as possible. There are so many symptoms that all of you have that i'm starting to notice too. Thank you all for posting this!

[MooseMuffin]

I've been on Seasonique since August of 2007.  Since then, I've woken up feeling like I'm having a heart attack, been diagnosed with Acid Reflux and Gastroparesis.  I went on the 3-month because my periods are horrid.  I throw up and feel light headed.  My cramps are the worse things in the world.  I got a prescription for a painkiller called Ponstel, but with my Acid Reflux meds, I can't take it.  So I have to live with all the pain.  I've noticed recently my far vision has been blurry.  I'm not sure what's going on.  I'm currently on my last week of my 6th month.  It sucks.  I think I'm going to get off of Seasonique but I'm not sure where to turn to.  I've been on so many different pills and not one has sufficiently helped me yet.  Ugggg.

[MooseMuffin]

My last post wasn't to anyone in general. Whoops!

[Ann7]

I might as well put my two cents in. I started on Seasonique 8 months ago. I went on it after 2 years of being on Ortho and switched because of mood swings. It helped immensely with my mood swings but I do still have them, just less frequently. It has recently led to blurred vision. I just thought it was because I have worn contacts for so many years. Also, I have the low sex drive. My bleeding during my period has never been a problem for me, so it's still not a problem. I think I will stay on this for another few months but am hesitant as to which pill to go to next. They all have side effects so I would urge everyone, as others have, to be informed before starting any pill. Unlike me. Best wishes.

[cait7]

I have been on Seasonique for 7 months, and I am only in the past 6 weeks experiencing terrible side effects.  I am breaking out like crazy and I have been consistently for 6 weeks.  I never before had problems with acne.  I am also extremely depressed and I have no ambition to leave my room even though I have a perfectly happy and healthy life to experience. I am college senior and I wish I could enjoy my last semester but I am so upset about the acne I don't want to leave my apartment.  I have a prescription out for Yasmin, but I am scared to switch and have it change my hormone levels even more.  Should I go off birth control all together or switch to Yasmin? Also, if I switch can it be mid-cycle? I am sick of waiting...

[Hayley723]

Do your research...seasonique/seasonale can be fatal. Many new cases are showing up that lead to the cause of death in women. The blurred vision, etc...are all first symptoms. Anything that has that strong of an effect on your body and is giving you crazy side effects, (or sometimes no side effects) shouldn't be covered up by more pills or pain pills, or lead to being diagnosed with other health issues. We get our periods each month for a reason...why risk other body parts or your life just to not have a monthly period, even though most of us get aweful periods including myself!! I would love to only have 4 a year, but I'm looking into other options now!! Good luck.

[DeeDee303]

After 5 weeks on Seasonique I missed two pills and began spotting.  I called he dr. after 9 days, he said just keep taking them, I would straighten out.  After 21 days of spotting I took myself off and started a 5 day regular period.  I will not be going back on Seasonique.
The spotting combined with extreme breast tenderness and some nausea is to much for me.  The advantage is supposed to be 1 period every three months.  But 21 days of spotting makes up for that and after reading the Seasonique web page for prescribers the spotting may continue with the next pack.    

[findorion]

I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who have posted before me.  I thought I had fallen in a deep hole and could see no way out until I read your postings!  And as they say, "knowledge is power".  When I first started reading the posting, it was between tears, which had become normal for me.  By the end, I was ready to have a parade for myself because I knew it wasn't me and that the light at the end of the tunnel was right in front of me!  

I was on week 10 of Seasonique and had been lightly spotting for the last 2 weeks an almost dried blood color.  In those last 2 weeks, my moods went haywire.  I would go from yelling to crying to wanting to be around people to not being able to leave my house and very depressed all the time.  It was horrible!  On top of that, I hadn't had a good night of sleep in probably a month--I kept waking up in the middle of the night for a few hours and within the last week had awaken with night sweats 3 nights.  Also, around week 4 I was out buying a new bra, as someone had mentioned earlier, I had outgrown my old bra while I was putting on those extra 5 pounds.  

After reading everyone's postings I decided to stop taking the pills.  My last one was Tuesday and now it is Friday and though I'm still not back 100% to being me, I know I'm at least heading in the right direction!  So thank you again for letting me know it wasn't me and that I wasn't alone!  

[Girl579]

Wow, all these comments are scary.  I haven't had any real problems.  I got some light continuous breakthrough bleeding during pretty much the whole last month of the first 3 month pack but it didn't seem all that bad as long as it is supposed to decrease.  Sex drive is about the same.  I haven't had any mood swings.  I'm still new to the drug and just now finishing up the last few pills of the first pack.  I'll try and check back after I've had more time with the pills.  So far the worst part for me is the cost.

[InFargo]

Maybe I'm the exception but I haven't had any breakthrough bleeding, mood swings, or vision problems.  My sex drive is as strong as ever and I haven't gained weight.  I'm 39 and before Seasonique I was on Ortho 7/7/7 for years.  It might not be for everyone but I love it!  It's given me a lot of freedom.  As a women "of a certain age" that has no interest in having children and doesn't want to deal with a monthly period, I say it's a fantastic product.

[RT13]

Just a quick note to cait7, the college senior:  please, please, please go see your health care provider.  You don't have to make these decisions by yourself.  If the doctor who gave you the presciption (I presume it was the health center at school?) is not your favorite, you can always seek out another clinic in your town--for example, your local Planned Parenthood.  They often charge low fees for their services.

The point is: ask your doctor or nurse practictioner these questions and don't try to go it alone.  Get help for yourself!

[Leonna]

First I would like to say to those who post that we get our periods for reason, so we shouldn't be taken the birth control pills. That I have always looked down to birth control pills; but when it comes to either taken the birth control pill or going into surgery every two years, I rather take the pills. 5 year ago at age 21 I was diagnosed with Endometriosis and I had it really bad. They had to go in and remove some of the endometriosis sticky stuff, because it had bound the back of my uterus to my intestine.  This caused severe pain when I would move my bowels. Two year from that day, I had to have surgery again to remove 2 huge endometriosis cysts on both my tubes; one was the size of a baby head.
My doctor was not happy because he told me 2 years ago that he wanted to put me on birth control pills, but I denied. So now it was either I say yes or be on a surgery table every other year or so.
He place me on Loestrin FE  which made me more irritable then I was already, moody, no sex drive, I gain 25 pounds in 6 months and had very bad pain in my legs as well as inflation in my arms and legs. So I stop taken the pills 4 months later I allow my doctor to put me on Seasonique which isn't that bad I think.
Right before I got to the yellow pills I had break through bleeding for a week in a half, at first I thought I had a miscarriage. Because funny tissue came out of me one piece actually look like it, but it was just break through bleeding and that my body was getting use to the pills according to the ER GYN.
My weight is the same and I still didn't lose the weight gain while using Loestrin FE. But I was read other women post on this site and they mention eye problem. I’m on my second pack of seasonique and been haven sharp pain above my eyes, bad headache, and pain in my lower back I figure it just stress. But now am going to check this out with my GYN, an eye doctor and chiropractor, to find out if it is the Seasonique that is causing these pains am haven.
Other than that , oh and the uncontrollable spotting and lack of sex drive everything else is fine.

[Leonna]

I forgot to mention the increase in body hair, which I very much dislike.

[Alaskanclover]

I am 27 and had a baby in Aug.2007 and 6 weeks after I was put on Seasonque. At first it was fine and I was not bleeding till the 3 months and when I did, oh my I was going through a tampon and heavy pad in a hour in a half or so and could not go to bed with a towel under me incase I leaked. Well then a month ago I noticed that my sex drive was no where to be found which is odd, and I am crying alot,depressed and tired. I love my life and apart from moving to a different city things are great. But I called my OB today and asked to be switched and she sugguested Yaz, so I am going to try that and also I did get the headaches almost everyday also. Be careful with these pills!!

[Beach_Lover]

I have been on Seasonale, then Seasonique for about 2 1/2 years. I am about to switch! I used to LOVE this pill, but it's catching up with me now.

It took this long to really start feeling side effects. I am depressed, sometimes anxious, have absolutely NO SEX DRIVE, have acne (I've never had acne before) and can not get my period even on my period week of pills. I just feel very uncomfortable in my skin, like I just can't release tension or stress. I exercise daily, am 25, and have a lovely life. Just like one of the girls who posted at the top, it has taken a couple of years to really feel uncomfortable. Oh yeah, I have a daily headache now. I am drinking plenty of water, eating healthy foods and exercising a lot, so this is not the cause of my problems. I like other am going to try YAZ and see if I can stop this nervous and stressful yet depressed feeling.

[papermate]

I had been on Seasonale about 2 years ago. It was ok, but I didn't have insurance so I stopped taking bc for about 1 yr. I started Seasonique about a year ago. I experienced the ligh breakthrough bleeding if I missed a pill. I would stop taking it for a week wait until the bleeding stopped and went back on it. Which was about 4 days of relatively light bleeding, but I waited a week to go back on it. This only happens if I miss a pill. Aside from that it works fine. It keeps me from getting acne and feeling tired. When I'm on the placebos, I usually get acne, bloated and really tired. This is one of the main reasons I take it. I cannot function during my periods. My body just shuts down, as if I were hibernating. I take the pill to avoid the periods all together. I even take one pack after another skipping the placebos. As long as I don't miss a pill, everything goes well.

[schmoogie]

I have been on Seasonique for almost 3 months now and these 3 months have been terrible. I was on Yasmin but got very bad headaches, so my doctor switched me to Seasonique. I'm getting less headaches now, yet the other symptoms are unbearable. I thought I was pregnant for awhile because my breasts are extremely sore all of the time. They got bigger and it has become hard to sleep and exercise because of the pain. I am extremely irritable, depressed alot and sometimes I just cry and I can't even figure out why. Alot of times i don't even want to be around friends and I'll act like a ***** for no reason. My sex drive is basically nothing now. I hate this pill and i keep wanting to just stop taking it and go off of birth control alltogher but I've been on BC for 3 years and am scared. If I stop in the middle of the pack does anyone know when i should expect to get my period next? I can't take this pill anymore. Please help!

[BirdLady61]

I am 47 years old, and have been on Seasonique for about 14 months now.  I was previously on Ortho Novum for many years, going through perimenopause symptoms, especially during the fourth week on the placebo pills.  I switched to Seasonique, and the transition has not been a problem.  I had no breakthrough bleeding, and only having a period once every three months is wonderful.  The first period on Seasonique was heavy, but after each pack the periods have been better.  With so many negative reactions to Seasonique and the comments that it is a bad product, I just wanted to say that this does work for some women, without all of the problems being described here.  

[Danielle09Marie]

I have been taking seasonique for 4 weeks, and I have been having my period for 3 of the 4 weeks! The reason I got on BC in the beginning was because my cramps are so bad....the cramps I am experiencing on Seasonique are worse than ever! I am having the same symptoms as pretty much everyone else on this forum, I hate my body, I am uncomfortable, and I feel like I am permanently PMSing! I hate this pill and I am switching back to Yasmin TODAY!!!

[Katana98]

I am on the last week of my first pack of Seasonique.  I haven't had any horror stories yet, the only thing that was odd is I had a splitting headache the Monday of the yellow pills.  I had the horror story with Depo-Provera that prompted me to switch to Seasonique.  After 5 years of being on Depo with no issues, I had a major hemmorage period for 32 days, at times soaking through an Ultra OB tampon in 30 min, lots of clots, enough to think it would be a miscarriage if there was any chance at pregnancy!  I started a spotty "period" yesterday, but feel much better with the low dose estrogen instead of the placebo I had years ago in Ortho Tri Cyclen.  They also said acne would get worse, mine has gotten better, and I have lost 5lbs in the switch from Depo to Seasonique.  

[0456]

Ive on my 7th month and I never really had a problem before but I've been spotting for the last 18 days. Its really annoying and seems to be getting worse. Does anyone know if I just stop taking it if ill get a normal period and the spotting will stop?

[0456]

Ive on my 7th month and I never really had a problem before but I've been spotting for the last 18 days. Its really annoying and seems to be getting worse. Does anyone know if I just stop taking it if ill get a normal period and the spotting will stop?

[hilnbri]

I am in the 3rd month of Seasonqiue...My doctor switched me from Loestrin to this because I was having like 2 periods in one month..the 1st 2 months were fine, no side effects but I have been having light spotting for the past few weeks. By light meaning I have no need for tampons or liners, I just see blood when I wipe. I too had brownish discharge but it's now bright red. Aarrgghh, I am wondering if  this will stop soon? I got this as a trial pack from my Dr and will we switching Solia in a few weeks. My main concern is does anyone know if I have sex during this break through bleeding thing, will it bring on a full on period? (silly question I know).

[Ame_chan]

I used to be on Loestrin and I had nothing negative to say about it. I was on one other type of BC for only a month and switched back to Loestrin. I have been off BC for almost a year and I am so scared to take Seasonique. I am anemic so, if I bleed as much as most of you have, I can only imagine what might happen to me.
Thank you everyone for sharing your stories. I am staying away from this BC!

[ec08]

I have been taking birth control since I was 17 (am now 26) to regulate my periods and to help with the terrible cramps i would get.  I was on ortho tri till feb of 2006 when my GYN put me on seasonale because even though ortho regulated my periods it still didn't help the cramps.  Last May she put me on seasonique becuause while the seasonale helped i was still getting severe cramps every once and awhile.  I haven't had any problems with seasonique in fact the cramps are almost completly gone.  The only time I've had any problems with tenderness in the breasts and mood swings was when I went off seasonique completely for 2 1/2 months because I couldn't get a chance to refill my prescription without being completely behind in the cycle.  The only negative comment was when I was off it my body still mimiced being on the pill and i didn't get my period at all for 2 months.  i actually thought I was pregnant but I wasn't.  Beyond that I love this BC!

[serina186]

I have been taking SEASONIQUE for a month now and have heavy bleeding for a month, the doctor suggested it for my endometris. I keep calling and they keep telling me it's normal and this could take 3 months!! This is starting to get annoying!

[danileigh]

I have been taking seasonale/now seasonique for almost 4 years. I have awful periods and so I love that this pill only allows it to come every three months; the only time that i had any break-through bleeding was the only time i missed like two pills in a row, other than that i have had no problems (other than the cost!).

I just found out that there is a 365-day pill out (so you have NO periods), it's called Lybrel. It was under review and trials for a few years to make sure it is safe. I think I will definitely ask my doctor about it!

[mdthomas]

I was wondering if anyone with migraines are taking this pill.  I was on Lo Estrin 24 and was having no period but still terrible migraines.  I was a little freaked out about not having any bleeding at all, yet having abnormal cysts on my ovaries so my doctor just changed me to seasonique today.  However, I read that you shouldn't take it if you have migraines, which I have severe ones, or heart valve problems and I have a heart murmur and an irregular heart beat.  Just wondering if anyone with frequent diagnosed migraines was taking this and having any positive or negative effects

[pb713]

I have been taking seasonique for the past 2 months due to being diagnosed with fibroids and I wanted to control the heavy bleeding-just to get a period once in awhile. Not so, I had a period for 15 days, 3 weeks ago and now I am getting another one. I also feel like my uterus has totally expanded and is hard as a rock. I plan on stopping the seasonique-cleaning out and maybe going back on my OrthoNovum-I have decided and scheduled a hysterectomy this summer. I have looked at a lot of choices and think this is the best. I also have a 16 year old daughter on Seasonique-started a few weeks before me. At the time we decided the less periods the better, but now I am understanding a lot of her irritability and physical complaints. We will be discussing this further. Thanks to all for sharing your stories.

[msrachaele]

Hello all,

I'm a 26 yr old mother of 2. I'm on Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo, and I love it. I always know when to expect my cycle, and my symptons aren't as bad as before the pill. if I were to change, I would prefer Yaz. But it's basically the same deal. Why not just survive the regular 12 cycles a year, while on a regular bcp, without all of the unnecessary bleeding and abdominal pains? Seems easier to me and a whole lot less painful. Not as expensive, either.

[CH18]

Hi all,

I have been taking Seasonique for about 15 months now. I will no longer be continuing it. Before, I was taking Ortho Tricyclen Lo without a single problem.

On Seasonique, I haven't had the troublesome breakthrough bleeding, but I have absolutely no sex drive, have frequent headaches, and have been recently experiencing bouts of crying -- over nothing at all. I cannot attribute it to any changes or events in my life and Seasonique is the only medication I am currently taking.

I will be filling my prescription for Ortho Cyclen tomorrow. Hope this information is helpful to you ladies.

[schmoogie]

WOW! That sounds like my exact symptoms! My relationship with my fiance is really suffering because I never want to have sex. I cry sometimes about nothing really at all and I was thinking that I am just depressed but I think Seasonique has something to do with it because I never felt like this before. Maybe I'll switch and try Ortho Tricyclen Lo!!
Thanks!

[Taraseeks]

I've been on Seasonique for about 5 weeks now and my last period lasted about 15 days. I was also getting huge blood clots that really scared me so I called my OB and they said it's normal. I've also been really moody and irratable, I've gained weight, and can't sleep. I used to be on Ortho Evra which I loved because I had NO side effects, and I would love to switch back to that but now their saying it will kill you hehe. I'm tired of being a woman LOL>

[xpanicxzombiex]

I've been taking Seasonique for almost 3 months now, I've only got 4 of the yellow pills left.  At first I was on Ortho Tri-Cyclen for 1 month but my doctor put me on Seasonique to try to "fix" my mood swings. Well, my mood swings only got worse, I cry way more than I did and I'm even more depressed than I was. I can be happy one minute and immediately start crying for no reason and my feelings get hurt A LOT easier now. I've had other side effects like breast tenderness, weight gain, and I've been on my period for about 2 months now. It seems like my period will never end! But once these pills are gone I'm starting a different pill called Necon.

[AR_Girl]

I am so happy to read other people having issues with this pill!!!  I am going on bleeding for two and a half weeks, nothing compared to some posts, but for me that is a LONG time - I can't stand this pill - I don't sleep at night, I get HOT at night - I am so anxious I snap at people at work and don't even realize it, I am ready to switch... I have been on so many different pills though, I hate pills, I am 28 and do not want any children so some form of BC is a must, any ideas on another option?  I have never taken the shot --

[Andi119]

I have been on 3 different birth control pills. The first one was a typical 21/7 pack and i bleed everyday for three months. Then the 2nd I was on another 21/7 pack that worked relatively well but after a year or so lost some effect. I decided to switch to Seasonique I am on my 7th week and just started a mild breakthrough bleeding. I will try and comment back if it persists or stops. The first week or two I was also moody has breast tenderness and the works but the longer I've been on it the better things have gotten. I'm going to try and hang in there and see how it goes. I have heard horror stories first hand from some people with blood clots. However, I have also heard plenty of women loving seasonique. So i guess ride it out as long as you can and if it doesn't work for you switch to something else

[JANcat08]

I've Been On Seasonique since Nov. 2008.  My first bleed week I cramped, and bled heavy.  I just ended another 3 months on it and I have yet to have any bleeding this time.  I didn't experiance any side effects  as I am on a mood stablizer for other reasons. I had no weight gain in fact since I've been on it I've notice a decrease in PMS cravings, and have lost 8 lbs. My biggest concern is that I feel like I am going to start my bleed week, but np signs of bleeding.  I feel crampy and have been lossing water weight, but nothing.  Has anyone else experianced this?

[stewart09]

ohmygod!  Seasonique is the worst birth control pill I have ever been on - after taking a number of different pills, I stopped over a year ago to give my body a rest.  After a month or so, things went back to normal - heavy, but relatively on time.  However, my cramps started getting worse and things were a little erratic the past few months so my GYN put me on Seasonique to regulate things.  Well II was only able to last three weeks - first week and a half, my breasts hurt so bad, I couldn't do a thing without wearing a bra (including sleep!) - that began to subside but I started to notice I was retaining a lot of water (like 5 lbs worth!) - my moods were out of control (honestly, I swear I am usually a relatively stable gal!) and then the breakthrough bleeding started.  Light at first, but after two days, I started cramping and bleeding more heavily, almost 24/7 - called the GYN - the advice nurse said this pill gets "a lot of complaints but if I could hold on for six months, everything should subside?"  WTF?  are you kidding?  I couldn't do it - I stopped taking it yesterday!  Since then, I am still cramping and have a full blown period - in fact, I've bled more in the past three hours than I think I did with my previous three periods combined (right through a super plus tampon - twice in three hours - not to mention the clots!)... I'm hoping my body doesn't take long to get back to normal.  My doctor ordered Microgestin 1.5/30 for me, but I honestly think that I'm not going to take any birth control.  I may have had a few days of discomfort before, but nothing like I've experienced that past three weeks!  

[janden527]

Just to add my 2cent's worth:  I am on my 10th week of Seasonique.  All was fine and I was quite pleased until I started spotting at about the 7th week. That has continued for the past 3 weeks, never especially heavy but occassionally enough for a tampon or liner, but its a general nuisance and unpredicatable and the clots are scary looking.  It just makes you wonder what's going on in there!  

The whole reason for taking Seasonique was to NOT have to deal with this ****.  I've left messages with my doctor and not gotten a call back.  I'd much rather just take a regualar old fashion pill and have a light 3 day period than a continual one. I hadn't thought about any other side effects until I started reading this blog... I realized my abdomen does feel hard, I do have constant minor cramping and I have gained about 5 lbs. As for my sex drive, unfortunately my boyfriend & I broke up just before the breakthru bleeding started so I haven't been able to put that to the test.  I initially thought my uterus was missing him..  :)  Now I wonder if I had a "smell problem" also and didn't know it.  Should I call him and ask?!  Naaa...

After reading all this, I just don't think it's worth it.  I never had any problems with Loestrin, don't have PMS or headache issues, so if just doesn't make any sense to risk this stuff or deal with the constant bleeding when the whole point is to NOT have a period.  Live & learn, I guess

[medasst]

I started taking Seasonique about 6 months ago.  While I didn't have bad breakthrough bleeding, I still had some spotting and one time it lasted for 15 days.  Granted it was minimal and i wore a pantyliner for those 15 days, it still agravated me.  I have been reading all of the text above and realized that I too have been having alot of these symptoms.  I have terrible night sweats to where I have to change the sheets almost everyday.  I have NO sex drive.  My fiance and I live together and went almost 3 months with no sex or intamacy.  I too have been noticing a different smell to my armpits.  I have been changing deodorants because I just figured your body changes as you age and I am only 26.
Now the worst part.....I am getting married in 4 months and I have developed such bad acne on my chest and arms.  My doctor prescribed a medicated cream and it still hasn't gone away.  She said that its from hormones. The only option I have is to stop the Seasonique and hope that it goes away before my wedding.  I never had acne EVER in my life, not even as a teenager.  It didn't start until my 3rd week into the Seasonique.   I was on Ortho Evra for two years prior to Seasonique with no problems.  I should have NEVER switched.

[cas86]

I know that some people have already mentioned this, but has anybody else had really bad period-like cramps when it's not even close to the time of your period while on seasonique?? I've only been on it for it about 2 weeks but the last few days I've been bloated and gassy and had period cramps that are really painful. On this pill, my period isn't supposed to start for more than 2 months and i'm even 2 weeks away from my period on a normal schedule.

[Bubbles26]

Seasonique is the worst birth control pill I've ever taken! I was on it for about 2 months last year when I began noticing some strange side effects pretty much right away. I was feeling a little depressed at first, but didn't think much of it. By month 3, I was in bed 24/7, couldn't go to work, the store, I was having suicidal thoughts, migraines, cramps, etc. I called my doctor and told her about it and she said to stop taking the pills immediately - that one of the side effects is depression. About a week and a half later, I started feeling human again. I went back to work, and I'm doing great now.  I guess some people just bad reactions to it - mine was a 10 out of 10!

[desertdoll]

My doctor just prescribed Seasonale today to control heavy bleeding and heavy clotting. I haven't even picked up the pills yet -- and after reading these posts, I"m not going to. I have a pelvic ultrasound next week to check for fibroids. I think my doctor was too quick to prescribe this pill - there MUST be a kick back in it. I'm also seeking a second opinion. While I'm not happy with the heavy bleeding and major cramps, I"m not sure this pill is the answer. I think I'll stick with the devil I know (3 day heavy period) and  leave the rest up to God! Afterall, he's the best doctor I know.

[pink52907]

I'm in my 10th week taking this bc & the last 10 weeks have been horrible. I haven't stop bleeding at all. The breast pain & lack of energy has really gotten to me. I've called my dr. 3 times & she says to just stick with it, I'm almost through my first initial 3 months. I'm calling my dr. tomorrow & telling her I don't want to take this pill anymore regardless of what she says. The way I've been feeling has been awful. It's good to hear that others have experienced the same side effects.

[carica88]

My doctor prescribed seasonique to me yesterday and after reading all your comments, I immediately called her and asked for a new prescription for a regular pill so I wouldn't have to deal with the spotting. She told me I could use the seasonique the same way as a regular pill, take for 3 weeks than go off it for the 4th. If that doesn't work I can call back and get something new. Anyone else try doing this to eliminate the spotting/bleeding all month?

[MidwestMC]

I'm only on my 7th week on seasonique, but I like it. I switched from the NuvaRing, which was horrid! I spotted a very little bit on the 4th week (the week I would have normaly had my period on normal BC) but it was not that bad. Other than that I have not had any problems.
Last week my face suddenly broke out. And I dont mean a couple of zits, this is a full on 14 year olds acne break out. Its horible! I thought that BC ws suppost to clear up your face. This could be from stress at wrok, I'm not sure. Just throwing that out there

[badabing69]

ive been taking seasonique for a week and 2 days and i feel like im going to puke every time i wake up,also at random times of the day,has any one else been feeling the same way ?

[jlb172]

I started taking this pill about 5 weeks ago...everything was great at first--aside from slight swelling in my feet, but that's a given--and then around week 3, I started having steady headaches every day.  I don't know that there was one time where I stopped having a headache until the end of week 4.  So when that stopped, my heavy cramping started.  My doctor had told me in the beginning that I would bleed and cramp in the first month or two like normal, but this is different.  I'm spotting very little and it's very dark and thick (gross I know) and my cramps are INTENSE.  I've missed two days of work now because of cramps.  It was a whole week of steady cramping and now today has been a couple hours of rest, 20 min of intense cramping, couple hours of rest, etc etc.

This is my first experience with bc and my family's medical history for the most part has been clear...but I'm naturally concerned and need to wear a tampon all the time for fear I'll start heavily bleeding while I'm at work (when I can't afford to just dash to the restroom).  I have some moderate mood swings, which are concerning for me because I'm a naturally happy person, and last night I sobbed in bed for an hour for absolutely no reason.  Also, sex drive is negative, but my dreams have been nothing but sex!  Sad to wake up from that and not want to act on it. :(

I'm mostly concerned with the bleeding (and what it looks like) and the severe cramps.  I've read the previous posts and haven't really heard anyone with the same exact problems but they've all been close to mine.  I'm planning on calling my doctor tomorrow to check with her, and when I do, I plan on posting here later about it.

Thanks for everyone's posts, it's helped me out a ton. :)

[ctlteacher]

I started taking Seasonique around February. My periods have been awful.  I can bleed through a super tampon and maxi pad in less than an hour.  I excrete huge blood clots every time I have to change.  I used to only excrete one clot per period on Ortho Tricylcin.  I have to time my drive home so I could get to a bathroom on time.  I sat at my hair dresser and bleed through to the chair.  It was embarrassing. This stuff has never happened to me before.  After my last period I felt very weak. Maybe because of all the blood lost.  I could barely walk up my stairs or lift anything.  It has been 3 weeks since my last period and I am still spotting some brown stuff.  Just recently I started getting headaches everyday.  I can't sleep at night and feel very restless.  I am tired but when I go to bed I can't sleep or even sit still.  I have to walk around the house all night.  I finally fall asleep about 4 in the morning then I have to wake up at 6.  I made an appointment to see my doctor because I do have high blood pressure and take pills for other things but after reading all this I believe it is the Seasonique.  I want to go off of it but have a couple of vacations coming up in July and August and I don't want to have my periods then.  Should I go off it and take a chance or wait till the end of this pack and then stop?  I never had a problem the Ortho but like most women I didn't want my period so often.

[crvygurl]

I posted back on September 20.  At that time I had been on Seasonique for 7 weeks, or so.  I stayed on it until a little over a month ago.   The breakthrough bleeding I experienced did eventually stop and I really felt like I was doing much better on this pill.  However, my partner pretty much begged me to go off of b/c because he's so afraid of my developing cancer, or some other terrible side effects from it, in the future.  So, I stopped using it.  I have to say I'm glad I did.  We weren't necessarily using it for birth control, although that's a huge plus.  I had originally started using it because my hormones went completely out of whack and I was having a period every two weeks with completely crazy cramps and mood swings.  After going off of the Seasonique, my periods seem to have returned to normal (knock on wood) and my mood has stabilized without the use of the hormones.  I have to say since going off of the Seasonique, I feel much better.  I really think I was horribly depressed on the stuff but had come to think it was "normal".  The girl that commented above on feeling suicidal- I too had terrible thoughts about dying and thinking I would be better off dead.  That's completely crazy because I have two small children to raise and am actually very happy with my life.  But, I would feel like I just wanted to die.  I wasn't really correlating that to the Seasonique, but I really think that's what it was.  I didn't want to go off of it at the time, but my partner was so adamant and heartfelt in his request, that I really had to try to go off of it for him.  And, I am really glad I did.  Now that the fog has lifted, I feel 110% better, even with a monthly period.

[lostyouth90]

hi i'm17 and have been on seasonique for over ayear and a half. i never had any unusual problems til about 2 months ago. suddenly i started bleeding nonstop and it varied from light to heavy. ijust started the yellow pills so i'm going to wait to see if things go back to normal.any advice or reasons for such late side effects?

[migraineur]

I had been on Seasonique for almost 2 years and just recently switched to Yaz. I didn't realize until after the switch how much the Seasonique was having an impact on my life. While taking it, I suffered from all types of symptoms - migraine, other types of headaches, depression, and sensitivity to light. It got to the point that I was wearing sunglasses inside the house and to watch tv and work on the computer. Since being off the Seasonique, all of these side effects are now GONE. I am totally amazed. I kept thinking it was just me. But I got tired of treating all the migraines and decided to try to find their cause. I came across this forum a few weeks ago to see if others were experiencing what I was on Seasonique. And so many of you were! So I went to see my doctor and switched and I am so much happier. I feel more normal now than I have in such a long time. I should have switched a lot sooner!

[live_life_well]

I began Seasonique on June 16th, 2008 and stopped on June 23, 2008.
8 whole days after beginning I realized it was not for me.
The first two days I noticed I felt very light headed.  Almost to the point of fainting.  I decided to give it a few more days before I quit taking it.  Thinking my body needed to get used to it.
On the 8th day of taking Seasonique my husband begged me to quit taking it.  He told me I was unbearable to be around.  My mood was negative.  I had noticed I had begun to feel depressed a few days before he confronted me.
So I stopped taking the pill.
Two days later I started a 2nd period in the same month.  JOY!
This pill was not for me.

[salockh]

I'm 21. I've been on Seasonique for six weeks. I've had really bad gas pains and gone from being constipated to having diarrhea. I've had no sex drive and my fiancee touching me annoys the heck out of me, actually a lot of things are driving me crazy about him lately. My breasts are extremely tender and hurt when I sleep, especially since I sleep on my stomach. I don't think this pill is for me but I need to finish it to try to shrink my ovaries before the doctor takes me to surgery. I wouldn't recommend this pill unless you absolutely need to take something that stops your period completely.

[gheck3]

I suffer from severe migraines, so my doctor suggested I try seasonique to help with them... YEAH RIGHT!!!... I'm only on the first week and my head hurts worse than it ever has.  My eyes hurt so bad I can only open them for a couple seconds at a time, I'm dizzy, disoriented, in a bad mood and I hurt all over... Is there anyone out there that has found a birth control that actually works?  I have break through bleeding with low dose birth control, but get really sick with heavier doses. I don't know what to do.. please help.

[sarahjaney]

I just started taking Seasonique a few weeks ago and I think everything is fine so far except that I've been really emotional.  I've had a rough few weeks trying to get moved and it's been really stressful.  I've found myself crying ALOT! I'm not sure if it's related.  Any one else have similar issues?  Maybe it's the stress but I'm not used to crying so much! Also, anyone experience weight loss or gain?  I"m really young and VERY new to bc! Any advice helps!

[Rita588]

I started taking Seasonique in Nov 2007 the first 3 months went by without anything significant to report. I was really getting used to the whole no periods thing. But by the 5th month of taking these pills I started having some minor spotting. I still didn't think it was that big of a deal. When I started into my 3rd packet of pills I started noticing some breast tenderness and general bloating. The 8th month on the pills I began having "breakthrough bleeding" but it had all the symptoms of a regular period without the regular flow. This lasted almost the entire month of June. I finally gave up on trying to finish out the last month on the pills and had a real period. I've decided to stop taking the pill in hopes that my body will unbloat. I've gained 25 lbs while on this pill (although this may be partly due to the fact that it was an extra long/cold winter) But I don't generally gain that much wait over the winter. In these 9 months since I started taking Seasonique I have moved up an entire cup size in bras NOT COOL!!!
I started taking this pill because I have endometriosis and was having flu like symptoms at the start of every period. While the syptoms (symptoms) I was taking seasonique have not been as evident, the side effects of this pill don't seem to outweigh the benefits.
I am so glad to read that I am not alone here.

[J_Cupcake]

I am 24 years old and I started a 3 month trial of Seasonique which i just finished almost 2 weeks ago. I am so glad to see everyones side effects written on this message board because for a moment I was beginning to think I was mentally unstable. When I first started Seasonique I didn't have many of the side effects only mood swings and I was very emotional. I finished my 3 month trial and now I feel completly unlike myself. I have started to feel anxious - extreme anxiety, I worry about everything and I have also began to think crazy thoughts. I even went as far as to going to my primary doctor and making them do blood work and other tests and I scheduled an appointment with a therapist. After reading everything that all you women have wrote on here I don't think I will be needing a therapist. It's just refreshing to know I am not alone and some of you have had the same symptoms I am feeling now. I also was spotting for about 3 weeks while taking it and I didnt think that was normal at all. I did get my regular period on time when I went into the yellow pills. As far as me taking this or any other kind of birth control ever again, I WiLL ABSOLUTLY NOT! I think my sanity is way more important. This anxious feeling is extremely uncomfortable and I don't know how to handle it. I did make a few phone calls and speak to gyn's about it and they told me anxiousness and anxiety is a common side effect and that Seasonique is a strong birth control so when stopping use it does take time for your body to adjust.

[dolphinchick]

After having my first child, I was placed on the Seasonique birth control. After having my child, I associated joint pain and finger swelling, (especially when i would wake up in the mornings, my fingers would be swollen), I attributed all of this to having had the baby and my body trying to heal.  Boy, was I wrong.  My joints began to hurt soooo bad that I was afraid that I had developed a serious form of arthritis, or something else.  I went to my regular doc and she began checking me for fibromyalgia, lupus, etc.  The ONLY medication I was on was the seasonal birth control.  Regular doc turned up nothing with all the blood tests that were run.  Went to my gyno, my check up was fine, I mentioned to her what was going on with my joints, and she said, I'd like to take you off this pill, there's a slim chance it might be causing this side effect.  After being off this pill for a few days, My joints began getting better.  When I was on this pill, it was an effort just to get on the floor with my new baby. I'm now on a different birth control pill and doing fine and feeling like I'm getting my life back.  If you've had joint problems being on this pill, please make a post.  Users of this pill need to be aware that their "pill" could be the cause of the joint pain/stiffness.  This pain and joint stiffness effected my life SO MUCH.  I felt like I was 90 years old trying to get around, I started using ramps instead of the stairs where possible.  

[SweetyPie91]

YIKES!
I was going to have my doctor put me on this, but all these postings scared me out of it.
12 periods a year isn't as bad as all those possible side effects.
Thanks for the info.

[H2R]

I am on my 6th week on Seasonique and all was great until week 5.( I had previously been on Ortho Tri for 10 yrs and Ortho Tri lo for the last 4 and had no problems with the exception of small mood weeks the week before. )  Week 5 I noticed that my vision was getting worse with my contacts.  I couldn't look at the computer screen for more than a couple of minutes, I was having trouble driving and just walking around made me nauseous .  I had just gone to the eye doctor and switched to Acuvue Oasys the month before I started Seasonique.  I went back to my old lenses and they were blurry too so I knew it wasn't my lenses.  The only meds I'm taking is Seasonique and sure enough the IFU stated that it may cause contact lense intolerance.  At about the same time as the vision issues I started to notice joint pain.  I'm an extremely active person and work out daily.  In the last week I've been hurting so bad in my back, shoulder, knee and elbows that I could barely do laundry.  I called the Dr. this morning and basically all the info I got from them was "yep the IFU states that you can have contact lens issues"  and then they asked ME what I wanted to do.  They had no idea why it causes the side effects.  I did also have the bloating, breast tenderness, sight weight gain and low libido ( but I had this on the Ortho Tri Lo as well).  I was going to stick it out until the vision issues started.  So as of today I'm off of Seasonique and switching back to Ortho Tri Lo.  

[inspiringmind]

I started Seasonique in July, I am on week 7 of taking it.  I started taking it because I have painful periods and I was tired of that every single month. (My OB/GYN told me that if I keep having painful periods while on this to come back.) I started the Seasonique on a Sunday and it was the second day of my period. It immediatly STOPPED the flow and until last night I was period free. Now I am having very slight discharge.  I can't even call it a flow cause I don't even need a liner or a pad or anything. I do not have mood swings and I am not having sore breasts, although my sex drive is a bit less. What I do have is my vagina is slightly sore. It just started a few days ago.  Not sure what that is from though.  Only thing I am noticing though.

[SMC40]

I have been on Seasonique for almost 8 months - the doctor prescribed it because I was having bad migraines every month around the time of my period.  I am actually relieved reading some of the above comments because I have so many of the same symptoms.  I was starting to think I was bipolar or going through menopause, even though I just turned 40.  I still have my migraines every month and now in addition I have cramping.  I didn't associate the night sweats to the pill until I read above.  But the worst thing is the mood swings.  I am in a bad mood 24 hrs a day and seem to be easily frustrated and depressed.  I started thinking back to when these horrible mood swings started and I am sure it started about 3 months after starting Seasonique.  I plan to stop taking it today and hope that my mood swings level off!  

[coch]

I have only been on Seasonique for 1 WEEK and my mood swings and depression the last few days are unlike anything I've ever experienced. I have absolutely NO Patience for my 6 month old. I know that can happen to anybody, but I never experienced this with my 3 year old. These feelings and emotions have only just popped up in the last few days. After reading everything people have written here, I am going to stop taking it immediately. Even if it is not causing these problems, I'm not willing to take the chance. My kids deserve better, if I can't be my normal self while on these pills, than it's not worth it.

[JT44]

Thank you for all your comments.  I am 44 with 2 children.  I had been on Yasmine, which I loved, but did experience monthly headaches and IBS, so I went off the pill for two months (an my side effects stopped)and then asked my DR to put me on Seasonique for convenience and to see if the headaches and IBS reoccur. I began taking Seasonique 4 weeks ago.  I had breast swelling right away, but now in week 4, I am wondering if they are going to stop.  This I am use to with the pill, but Seasonique seems a bit more extreme.  My real concern after reading this sight is that I now have an explanation for my decreased libido (significantly), low motivation, general feeling of depression, desire to sit more than usual, to name a few.  But in week three, my joints were killing me and my wrists and ankles were swollen.  I thought my life changes were bringing this on, even though I am having positive changes and am usually motivated by my new daily challenges.  I have not had spot bleeding, but based on these posts, I would expect it later.  After reading these posts, I am now convinced it has been the Seasonique.  I am not going to wait and see.  Instead I am pulling off tomorrow and I will expect a period.  From there I will go back to a reliable monthly pill, which has generally been fine for me, with 3 day periods.  I need to be around for my boys and the threat of blod clots and general feeling of loathing is not worth my time or energy.  My bloated stomach alone (which I have never had), with no relief in sight is worth pulling off.

[elbeeny]

This has been very enlightening. I just stopped taking Seasonique yesterday after 10 weeks. I realized my migraines were becoming more frequent and severe. I looked back in my diary and saw that I averaged 1 migraine every 3 months or so when I wasn't on any pill, and I've had 4 migraines in July alone! I called my doctor and she said to stop. I also have been very irritable and restless. I've actually been writing in my journal about how restless I feel, but didn't realize why. I've also been anxious and mildly depressed--not having as much interest in getting together with friends.

I mentioned to my friend tonight that I've been feeling blah, and he said he's noticed but didn't say anything. I'll be on the phone with a friend, but just feel like getting off the phone, not very interested in what they're saying. It's not like me.

I've also noticed itchiness, especially on my arms and stomach, and I have a lot of dry patches on my arms, which usually happens in the winter, not humid NY summers! Also, almost daily very mild spotting.

My gyno prescribed Seasonique because I hadn't been getting my period--skipped several months. I'm 41, not pregnant, hormone levels normal, no other reason. She said I needed to start bleeding and suggested the pill. I told her I went off the pill a couple of years before because of migraine. She said Seasonique might help because you get your "period" less frequently, so maybe migraines would be less frequent. Not for me.

I'm so excited to not be taking this pill anymore. I hope I feel normal soon, and I hope the 10 weeks on it have given my system a little kick to get my menstrual cycle going again. If not, I'm not sure what I'll do.

I have an appointment with my doc in 2 days--we'll see what she says.

[H2R]

Just a quick update.  I've been off of Seasonique for a little over a week and pretty much everything is back to normal on Ortho Tri Lo.  The only thing I'm still struggling with is my contact lenses.  If anyone else has had issues with contacts due to Seasonique and went off how long did it take for you to be able to wear contacts again?

[Lady884]

Taking this birth control was one of the worst mistakes I could have ever made.  My gyno recommended it after getting the implanon removed from my arm (which isn't much better).  I have been depressed, migranes, restless, no appetite, groggy, etc.  The list goes on and on.  I cannot wait for the side effects to stop and I get back to my normal self.  It has been 4 days since I've been off of the bc and I am still having some of the side effects needless to say spotting.  This is the worst I have ever felt being on any kind of bc.  Do your research before starting any kinds of bc recommended by your doctor.  Make sure you know the history of the drug.  Please be cautious when taking seasonique....it causes anxiety and that's the worst feeling in the world.

[armygirl209]

I have been on seasonique for almost a year, and when I go to my appointment in August I am going to have my doctor take me off. I originally started taking becuase I was having period problems...I never had any breakthrough bleeding, but within 2-3 days of taking this pill, my breasts were very tender and have increased in size...2 cups to be exact and I have NEVER had any other pill do this to me. I also gained a TON of weight and no matter what I do, it won't come off. I go to the gym 3-4 times a week, eat healthy, ect and it just keeps packing on. I wouldn't suggest it but that is my personal opinion. I haven't had any noticeable mood changes or depression...the only thing I am depressed about is the weight gain that I can't seem to get off.

[sarahjaney]

I posted about a month ago with emotional side effects.  Since, I"ve completely stopped using it.  The bleeding became unbearable, I cried nonstop about silly things, was shaky, feverish and totally unlike myself.  I feel a little better since stopping and the bleeding ceased, however, I'm still SOOO anxious, worrisome, guilt-ridden, and relatively unhappy.  It may not be related, but I have a feeling it is.  It may be lingering effects that I hope go away soon.  

Basically, Seasonique scared me.  I hated screwing up my body like that and I felt like my body was rejecting me! Another pill is definitely in my future:)

[totalkimbo82]

I am on my second week of Seasonique and after reading all of these post I want to change.  I took myself off of Levlin over two years ago because I felt really depressed.  Before that I was on Levlin from 18-22 until I was diagnoised with Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) which my doctors couldn't say for sure if it was from the bc, but I think it played a hand in my illness.  

So to read all of these systems with no one saying anything good about the medication has scared the **** out of me.  I couldn't understand why I wanted to sleep so much.  The other night I went to bed at 8:30 and still didn't want to get up with my alarm clock at 7am.  Not to mention I went out of town with my significant other and spent our last night crying to him because we got in an arguement about chicken wings.   I refuse to let birthcontrol screw up my relationship.  He said that I've been sensitive lately which I have.   Also, my throat has felt funny.  Not like sore but like something is caught in it.  I've also feel like I'm getting a yest infection, like my vaginal area itches sometimes but I don't ever have the full on sysptoms.  Plus I can sometimes smalle my area from sitting at my chair at work.  Its a wierd experience and a little embarrassing because I think other people can smell me.

I am so happy to have found this forum.  I don't want to end up back in the hospital because I wanted 4 periods a year.  My overall well being matters the most.

[beretta]

I just took the 1st pill of my 3rd week in my seasonique. My Dr. prescribed it to me after diagnosing me with PMDD, as well as a few ovarian cysts (which are extremely painful & are a complication of ovulation). Basically, I feel good 7-10 days out of the month.
Here's what I have experienced so far with Seasonique:
*increased clear/white discharge
*HUGE boobs, they look nice but they hurt a lot! Put it this way, I  .  
NEVER wear bras & now I SLEEP in them!
*Increased appetite & extreme cravings for cookies, lol.
*I feel HUGE, I know I've had to at least put on 5 pounds so far.
*My acne has gotten worse! Thus so has my depression.
*I don't sleep very well.
*I'm not motivated the way I usually am.
*I basically feel like I'm pregnant, which is IMPOSSIBLE because I haven't had any action in over 7 months!
*I pee all the time.
*Did I mention I am bloated & I can just FEEL my blood pressure going through the roof.
*Abdominal/pelvic pain similar to menstrual cramps.
*Feelings of worthlessness. = (

On the plus side:

*My moods are a bit steadier, I think more rationally.
*I have become extremely mothering & nurturing.
*I have not experienced this breakthrough bleeding or spotting that everyone is mentioning (knock on wood)

I'm not sure what to make of this pill yet. The ONLY reason I am taking it is to reduce my cysts.

Has anyone heard of any alternatives for ovarian cysts besides the pill? My Dr says Seasonique is just right for ovarian cysts as they are a complication of ovulation & by stopping the ovulation process altogether, the cysts should shrink or go away on their own. Not sure if I am ready for surgery, but perhaps there is a gentler birth control out there.

Most of these posts have scared the **** out of me. I already suffer from Panic Disorder which is a rare form of anxiety & I have been in therapy for quite some time & it is now manageable, so I hope my symptoms don't progress into scary things like clots, etc.

I smoked for 9 years, but quit on 10/5/07 = )

I never believed in BCP because I feel we have our periods for a reason. I don't know what to do. I am really tired of the cystic pain.

[Tasia717]

It is sad to see that so many of us of suffering from the same symptoms but also gives you a slight relief in the fact that you realize you are not alone.  I have never taken any forms of BC in my life until now.  I recently had 2 tubal pregnancies and had my right fallopian tube removed.  My doctor thought it would be best to start BC to help us not get pregnant again since I am now at a 100% rate for tubals.  So I thought sure.  He prescribed Seasonique and I thought wow 4 periods a year Yahooo!  Well the first 3 weeks on the pill were fine.  Then the 4th week hit.

I have been bleeding "Non-stop" now for the past 2 weeks.  My breasts are so tender that yesterday at the amusement park while riding on rides I literally had to hold them to keep them from bouncing cause they hurt so bad.  They hurt walking, moving, touching them, it is like OMG.  

I called my doctor and got the oh it takes time to adjust comment.  I think I will wait till I finish this entire pack and then maybe switch or just quit taking them altogether.

One thing I have noticed is sharp pain in my ovaries?  Does anyone else experience that.  Where you hunch over in pain?

[inspiringmind]

Update!

I posted on July 22nd that I was having slight discharge.  This has just gotten worse every single day! I stopped taking it 2 days ago because I had bleeding for 10+ days in a row. I guess I would rather have horrid cramps for one or two days and clotting for a total of 4 days then this "break through" bleeding ALL the time.

[kodabear1901]

i've been on this birth control for a year and a half ive never had problems... only when i would mess with the pills so that i wouldn't get a period for the summer but even then it was only slight discomfort...

[Danni904]

I started Seasonique about 3 weeks ago. I am having breast tenderness and abdominal cramps. The original reason I was put of BC was to decrease my cramping.  I have horrilbe cramps to the point of not being able to move. But instead of 4-5 days out of the month cramping I now cramp every day! Why even take the pill

[DeeliciousDee]

Wow... thank you so much everyone.  It's 5am and I STILL can't sleep.  I've definitely been thinking that maybe I'm going crazy.  I'm 24 years old and had taken the bill (ortho tricyclen) for a few years, I had to stop for a year bc I didn't have insurance and was recently placed on seasonique.  I've also recently been diagnosed with Hashimoto's tyroiditis so I thought that medication had something to do with my symptoms, but my doctor pointed out that it was a natural synthetic thyroid stimulant and that these side effects might be due to my birth control pill, that's when the search began and thank god I found all of you.

In addition to the mood swings, severe depression, anxious irrational thoughts, weight gain (10 lbs in ONE month), increased breast size (I was already a DD, this didn't help), breast soreness to the point where I would cry myself to sleep - wait.. IF I could fall asleep.  Moodiness, irritability, constant crying, just name it, I had it.  In addition to it though, I have some of the extreme but rare side effects listed on the seasonique website, shortness of breath, dizzy spells, pressure on chest, pain in lower back of leg (I thought it was odd to have 4-5 charlie horses), a random rash I'd never had before, the list goes on.

I'm going to call my doctor tomorrow and have stopped the pill as of tonight, oh and my sex drive which used to be out of control has taken a vacation it seems.  I really hope and pray my body goes back to normal really soon like some of you reported.  Thank you all so much for your feedback, because I really was feeling alone and insane.  Thanks!! -Dee

[elbeeny]

I wrote a post 2 1/2 weeks ago and I've been off Seasonique since then. I feel soooo much better. No more stomach cramps and pains, no depression, no anxiety. The only thing that seems to have lingered is the frequent headaches. I think I read something in the literature about the drug possibly changing headache patterns and frequency that could last. I surely hope this doesn't last. It's not the terrible migraines I was getting while on it, but it's no fun. I have confidence that they'll subside. No headaches today and none two days ago. Getting off this drug was one of the smartest things I've ever done.

[hmg1920]

Wow, glad I found this site to know I'm not going crazy.  I'm home from work today because of the worst cramps of my life.  They actually feel like the cramps I had when I had an ectopic pregnancy and it was aborting.  Very scary.  After 8 weeks of being on Seasonique, I'm ready to call it quits.  I've also had high blood pressure for the first time in my life and shortness of breath.  Not to mention that this drug is way too expensive for me.  Definitely NOT worth it.

[xblackxrabbitx]

I am on my the 10th day of Seasonique after coming off of two months of Ortho Cycline. I have been trying for four years to find a pill for me and I have yet to find one. So far I have had EXTREME breast tenderness like I have never had before, nausea, acid reflux, pain in my legs, twinges of pain in my abdomen (gassy), headaches, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. I have had no break through bleeding though. I was convinced I was pregnant but negative hpt after negative after negative I started searching the web and found you guys. I am glad I am not alot. I don't know if I want to hang in there with this pill. I have an appointment today. I will definately bring up these issues with my gyno.
Good luck to all.

[lollylome2]

I have been on seasonique for 7 weeks.  I like not having a period every month but I have noticed I have gained a ton of weight.  It also seems like I am gassy and bloated.  its not worth staying on the pill.  ever Since I have been on it I havent been happy with my body.  I am going to call the doctor 1st thing monday morning to see if and when I can stop taking this pill.  

[meg092387]

I was mainly just looking for something to tell me i'm alrught!!! I have been on Seasonique for about 6 months now... and I just finished a three week period and horrible cramps and mood swings. I actually thought I might be pregnant because of the way i was feeling. I had never looked onto anything natural before, but i talked to a friend who is studying apothecary (not sure on spelling) and she says the problem is that we are supposed to bleed every month, and like it or not, its natural. it gets things out of our system that we aren't supposed to keep in, like the eggs from last month. when we don't have a period, the eggs stay in and can be dangerous to keep in.
oh, and by the way, seasonique works with the 4 periods a year because for the two months you aren't supposed to have a period, your body is pretty much pretending to be pregnant and sending pregnancy hormones through your body to try and stop "mother nature". Thus would be why we experience weight gain, cravings, cramping, gassy, anxeity, etc...
i've never really known about any of this but it sounds like exactly what i've been dealing with. my body thinks its pregnant and it doesn't realease what it is supposed to.
To be honest this is just a theory but ive had so many recent problems i'm getting off this pill ASAP.

[kdp730]

I started taking Seasonique back in June. The first two weeks were fine until I started to bleed. I bleed for a whole month. During that time I was experiencing leg cramps and shortness of breath. I was always moody, not myself. Finally one night, I started with tightness in my chest and couldn't breathe. My doctor thought it might be heartburn, but since I was on Seasonique they did a CT Scan of my lungs to rule out blood clots. Well, the CT Scan showed I had blood clots on both of my lungs. I was admitted into the hospital for three days. Once I was released I have a home health nurse who comes to my home to check my vitals and take blood. I'm on coumadin for six months and I had to have injections into my stomach for seven days. I do not recommend this pill. I'm a healthy woman. I do not smoke or drink. The only surgeries I had was a C-Section four years ago. Also, I am experiencing severe acid reflux. I never had heartburn except when I was pregnant four years ago. This pill does cause all kinds of problems.  

[starburst23]

I hate Seasonique! I took it for 9 months.  The first two months was fine then I got a period at the end of the second month.  I never had a period every three months.  In the end it was more like every two weeks.  I experienced major cramping and bloating.  The cramping was so bad that I couldn't drive, walk or sit.  I have also experienced the weight gain, acne, bodyaches, breast tenderness, headaches, and mood swings.  I have even had hot flashes.

[mikaela23]

i started taking seasonique one week ago.  my doc. said it would help with severe pms and headaches. by the fourth day, i itched all over, i was sweating all night, and i felt seriously wierd.  i couldn't explain very well, but if i came across a bear i could have won the fight:) anyway i quit taking it the day after that.  two day later i started my period again i was only off of it for like a week.  just wanted to know if that was normal..  as for as everything else in feel much better, besides being out the fifty bucks my insurance didn't cover.  i thought about yaz, any suggestions?

[mcb2]

I am 22 and have been on seasonique 9 months (just started a new pack almost 4 weeks ago).  For the past couple months I've been experiencing unbearable lower abdominal pain.  I've been to the emergency room because of the pain, have had several tests (including an MRI, a endoscopy and am scheduled for a colonoscopy).  They have found nothing and the pain is still here...it hadn't really bothered me up until now; I had not been having intercourse again until about 2 months ago either (which may or may not be related).  I also had sever headaches for about a week when I started the new pack.  It looks like some people have had similar issues.  If I don't see any progress from tests I may stop using it to see what happens.

[JEM05]

I have been on Seasonique for about 8 months, but this is my first cycle of pills that I had no breakthrough bleeding. I was just wondering, when do you actually start your period? I'm on the second day of inactive pills and it hasn't come yet. I'm nervous that I might be pregnant, but don't want to get too worried too soon. Is this normal? At what day should I start to worry?

[Sab00]

Just to clarify on the difference between Seasonique and Seasonal the first has a low dose of ethinyl estradiol in the 7 period pills and the latter has hormone-free inert pills for your period pills. The first is more designed for those that experience spotting in an extended cycle. Neither are generic.

[testarossa]

Mans perspective

I have been dating my wife since 1997 and love her to death.  However we were married in 2001

when she started her first bc pill.  I noticed some slight sexual side effects / personality

changes with those pills and later she did the shots.  For the past year and a half she has

started taking this product called Seasonique.  I have never once bothered her about any bc she

has used but the past year I have become worried that her current pill is causing a real problem.

My wife is the only person I've ever been with and have no desire to be with another woman ever

in my life BUT after a year plus of feeling inadequate and useless to her I felt that maybe these

pills are the culprit.  Today I made the decision to toss the pills and of course the argument

and crying accured.  I am not the type of person to make a rash decision for her like this...but

for my own life I felt that this was something that I had to do.  She immediately told me that

she was going to go out to buy more pills so she could skip her periods.  I am sooooo tired of

the life I believe these pills have caused for us over the past year that I told her that if she

picked up anymore I would end my life.  This finally sunk in and she agreed to stay off of them.  

I just want my old life and most importantly my old wife back.  

Below are the symptoms associated with the time span she has been on this pill that I have picked

up on.  I have no idea about spotting and other things related to discharge as it grosses me out.

:-)  Currently my wife is 27 years old and has no known health issues.


- Itchiness of the abdomen, legs, arms associated with after a shower or any time I touch her
- very concentrated small bumps mostly on the arms but other places as well.
- sex drive reduced to once maybe twice a month
- lack of orgasm
- pain in the vaginal region
- severe pain in the vaginal region within 5-10 minutes of sex
- anxiety
- crying over the most inconsequential things.
- dry skin
- scalp hair non smooth and ratty looking for lack of better terms
- vaginal lubrication water like as opposed to the normal mucous type
- personality consistent with that of cardboard
- breast very sore and sensitive and enlarged a cup size
- weight gain of 15 pounds
- false periods with cramping
- mild to severe joint pains and body aches
- migraine headaches which she uses prescription pain killers to subside
- nausea ie puking spells every other week
- sweating and feeling hot even on cold nights
- severe depression associated with staying in bed 100% of the time besides work


I will keep you informed on her progress of going off the pill.  As stated this is day one.

[yaya769]

I have been on the pill for about four years now, and i have been on ovcon,mircette, desogen, apri, a few others and finally on seasonique now. ALL OF YOU WHO ARE NEW TO THE PILL it doesnt matter what pill for the most part you are on, you need to just give it time, it has taken my body three years to get used to it, some i have breakthrough bleeding, some dryness & no sex drive, some HUGE emotional swings, you just have to be patient and work with your doctor to find one that works for your body, many different types of pills use different amounts of different hormones and depending on each woman they affect you differently. ALSO when you first start ANY hormone therapy your body its going to react until it gets used to these changes. I have been on seasonique now for about three months and am doing great, but i was doing great on apri as well just switched because was told by my doctor that NO MATTER WHAT the drug store tells you when it comes to generics they are NOT as effective. anyway, the point is, everyone is going to have a problem with some medication. you just have to work with your doctor and be patient to see what your body needs.

[SHS001]

I have been on YAZ for the last year after having my first child. Before that I had been on Ortho-Tri Cyclen and a few others, they worked fine and no major problems. Then after I had my daughter I tried to go back on it and it drove me crazy! Massive severe mood swings, edgy, miserable to be around, you name it I was it! So my OB doc switched me to YAZ and I love it! But started to get menstrual migraines after about 4 months of being on YAZ, now in the last 4 months the migraines are getting increasingly worse and I am up to 2-3 Rx pills to battle the migraines. I am also having other issues that could or could not be related to the pill, the doctor thinks otherwise but I am sure it is the pill. SO now she wants me to try Seasonique, because all of my problems are menstrual related so only having a period 4 times a year would mean I would only have my "issues" 4 times a year not 12. At first I thought great, but after reading ALL of the posts I don't even want to start the stuff! YAZ & Seasonique are both really expensive and we are self employed and do not have insurance. I am to the point of going back to the good old fashion way of preventing pregnancy and quit spending money to give myself headaches and other issues. BUT preventing pregnancy and not driving myself or anyone else around me crazy with my moods is kind of high on my priority list! There has got to be a way!!!! Oh and getting a sex drive back would be nice, it’s been on vacation since I got pregnant! HELP!

[heylee]

Has anyone noticed an increase in shedding? I can easily pull out 5 or more strands everytime I go over my hair with my hand. I am not balding but my hair is definately thinner. I am also having major cramps, my breast are slightly sore and I have gained some weight. I have been very lazy and having night sweats. I am on my 8th week of my trial pack. I think I will finish it out and go back to Yasmin.

[BB126]

This is my fourth week on Seasonique. I'm 19..I've never been on BC before..But I was experiencing depression, migraines, unbearable cramps, and terrible mood swings. I was also interested in only having 4 periods a year and my Dr put me on Seasonique. He said that I may notice some spotting but it should subside. He said that I should start taking it on the Sunday of my next period, which I did at the beginning of  September. I noticed that it made me want to eat a little more, so I take them before I go to bed. Other then that I thought it was great..I was an all around happier person. Last Tuesday when getting ready for work I got really sick..and for the next few days I was throwing up and nauseous in the mornings..Before I started BC sometimes I'd get sick before my period but I would immediately get really bad cramps but only for the first day. my breasts and nipples have been sore since i first started as well as my stomach so I began to think maybe I was pregnant even though during my exam my dr said i wasn't. After taking a home test that read negative..and reading some posts I think these are just normal side effects. but after I got sick on Tuesday I started my period and had no cramps until after I had been on my period for a few days which is not normal. I haven't gained any weight, actually I've lost about ten pounds but I just feel so huge and bloated. Anyone else having these problems? Do you know if there's anything I can do to help them?

[Beca57]

I have just been prescribed to take Seasonique and I am wondering if I should even start taking it. My doctor thinks I should because every other BC I have taken messes me all up. I decided to not take anything at all until I started having ovulation problems and not having a period.
Should I try it or are all the side effects just too much?

[heylee]

I have stopped taking Seasonique as of yesterday. I am feeling generally better. I am going to go back on yasmin which worked wonderful for me besides some headaches which most BC causes. Seasonique in week 7 1/2 gave me sharp chest pains that radiated into my neck and ears and migraine to where I couldn't turn my head either way to get comfortable. This caused me to panic thinking I had blood clots. I have felt lazy, wanting to sleep all day and eating junky food since I have been feeling like ****. I am completely off my diet. I have been vomiting all day! Even when I had nothing left to vomit. My ankles have been sore, ovarian cramps, side cramps, back pain and leg cramps. To top it off, I am losing my hair! I am 28 and getting married next year and now I have to buy Rogaine and Nioxin to regrow my hair.

I am not going to tell anyone not to use this but please please be careful. I am just glad I stopped before any serious issues.

[helixy]

For those of you who don't know, Seasonique is NOT Seasonale or a generic. It is similar, but with Seasonique, the off-week in which you have your period has very low-dose hormones that supposedly stave off menstrual migraines, whereas Seasonale has placebos.

I am about to begin my ninth week of Seasonique [third month, so the last month of the first pack] and it has been ridiculous. Six days into taking it, I began to experience what I initially warded off as minor BTB, especially since BTB is even more common with triphasic regimines. However, the bleeding wasn't only breakthrough, it wasn't spotting, it has been full-blown heavy-period amount and consistency. I chose this pill hoping to stave off my migraines and reduce my issue of painful, heavy periods. Migraines are the same, if not increased, and while I do not experience painful cramping, I have bled every day since that sixth day into my pack and, heavily and consistently, to the point where I have lost so much blood that I am now severely iron-deficient and anemic. I've been utterly lethargic, exhausted, and fatigued... I can barely stand for five minutes without feeling dizzy, and with a new job starting up within the next week, that's unacceptable.

I have a follow-up with my OB-GYN in a little over a week, but I'm past my point of patience. My mother and girlfriends recommend that I try to stick it out, because when they started their various BC pills, they experienced a bit of bleeding too. I've read other reviews where people have just stuck it out and had it get better into the second pack--but I don't want to wait another four months to see if this looks up. I'm miserable, weak, my emotions are completely out of whack and for someone who was, forgive my bluntness, a nymphomaniac prior to this BC, I have no sex drive. No wonder it's birth control--your partner won't want to have sex with you [if you HAVE a sex drive] anyway if you're bleeding constantly!

[chellrenee]

I have had extremely horrible cramps since I was in junior high school, and im 22 yrs old now! So i decided to go on BC to control that, plus the four periods a month really sparked my interest as well. Normally my periods only last about 3-4 days, but I had to start the pill the day I started my period since I started on a Sunday...my period lasted for 7 days!! And I was extremely bloated. I have been on Seasonique for 2wks now and I haven't had any of the mood swings, major breakthrough bleeding, nausea, excessive cramping, ect. so far...but I did have extremely bad chest pain for the first week of me taking the pills, but I contributed that to something else...but I guess it could have been a side effect of the pill. Im still not sure about that.  Prayerfully this just means that the pill may agree with my body and I go on being cramp free! I will definitely keep everyone posted on progress!