Advice on the pill.

The only side effect that i’ve seen, personally, is weight gain. (But I wouldn’t be on the pill if I weren’t in a long term relationship anyways, and he doesn’t mind.) I don’t remember what the name of the type that i’m on, is. I would personally suggest going to an obgyn that you trust and going through your options with her. I had to try a few different dosages before we got me on the right one.

It’s probably best to discuss this with your doctor because everyone is different.

Another option is to check out the Planned Parenthood Web Site for more information. They detail the pros and cons of various birth control options (not just the pill), and you can find a local office to go to, if you want.

People react to the hormones and combinations thereof in hormonal birth control in different ways, so don’t be afraid to switch pills/methods if one does not work for you. One type of pill made me really anxious and another one was made me spot for like, 3 weeks. But now I’m on one that works well for me. The key is to find a doctor you can talk to about these things and don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions to find the method/pill that is right for you.

Personally, I have never liked “the pill”.
I won’t remember to take it at the same time everyday, it’s conspicuous, etc. I prefer the Nuva Ring. Until a recent hiatus, I was loyal to it for several years. I had minimal side effects and you just insert it once a month. Of course, as mentioned, everyone is different and consult your doctor. But here’s the site.
http://www.nuvaring.com/Consumer/index.asp

yes, you’ll probably have to try a lot out to find one that works. i never found one that did and spotted for literally 6 weeks straight…no fun.

The question “Which one is the best?” is just not realistic. The pill affects every person differently. I’ve tried 6 or 7 different brands (I take them for PMS related symptoms), and the ones I had liked the best are the same ones that my friends hated the most.

Also, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you just don’t want to get pregnant, then the ring is awesome. If you’re looking for lighter periods or fewer days of cramps, it’s not for you.

I’m using seasonal right now, and I think I’m going to stick with it for a while. It’s the one where you have 4 periods a year. That part is pretty nice.

You’ll need a prescription anyway, so just tell your doctor what you’re looking for, and you two can work out the best type for you.

You’ll have to ask your doctor. We don’t know your medical history, hormone levels, alergies, etc, and all of that matters when picking a pill.
All I can tell you is that Yaz has been having legal trouble (http://www.newsomelaw.com/node/231, http://www.attorneyatlaw.com/2010/01/yaz-injury-lawsuits-could-top-25000-cases/)