Terrible side affects with Birth control pills?

[newbie2b]

Hi everyone,

I'm usually on the Maternal and Child Health forum because I had a baby girl last year.  But my question is more about women's health so, here I am :)

I'm on birth control pills called Tri-sprintec. It's the generic of Ortho Tri-cyclen.  I stopped taking them for a little while partly because my partner and I really have no time to be intimate and it's hard for me to remember to take them everyday.  Anyhow, I started taking them again two months ago.  And the hormonal/PMS side affects are really tough on me.  I've tried several method of birth controls throughout my life (patch, nuva ring, pills) .  Any suggestions on a different type of pill to try? My hormones are so strong the week before my period is suppose to come, that I almost thought I was pregnant again!  I was eating like a maniac and craving chocolate more than ever.  I felt terrible about myself too.  I really dont like how it makes me feel and eat.  If I werent on pills, I would still have PMS but not so bad like it's been.  Any suggestions please?

Thanks for your help :)

[keephope558]

I have taken ortho-tricyclen lo for about a year now and am miserable. Depression, mood swings, food craving, weight gain, bloating, and lack of lubrication.  My doctor is switching my pills to one with a higher hormone level.  She says I am feeling bad because my pills are not strong enough. I start the new ones Sunday and am hoping for the best. Two things that will definitely help are more protein in your diet and exercise. This will keep your blood sugar levels more stable and energy level higher. I would talk to your doctor about switching to a different pill. My new ones are Loestrin 1.5.

[keephope558]

I have taken ortho-tricyclen lo for about a year now and am miserable. Depression, mood swings, food craving, weight gain, bloating, and lack of lubrication.  My doctor is switching my pills to one with a higher hormone level.  She says I am feeling bad because my pills are not strong enough. I start the new ones Sunday and am hoping for the best. Two things that will definitely help are more protein in your diet and exercise. This will keep your blood sugar levels more stable and energy level higher. I would talk to your doctor about switching to a different pill. My new ones are Loestrin 1.5.

[jdlk]

I am on the tri-cyclene and have not had any problems with it (although I hear that some women have a bit of break through bleeding).