I understand there is a lot of negativity surrounding this drug, and although I read a lot of similar stories before filling my prescription, I started taking Yaz. Since I have started my period, I have suffered extreme back pain, moodiness, cramping, bloating and a flow so heavy I would go through a super tampon almost every hour. So when I was 14 I started on Alesse. It helped a little with the bleeding and did nothing for my pain. I am now 20 years old and just switched to Yaz. My life has changed. For the first time in 8 years I feel no cramping, bloating, nausea, back pain or diarrhea that was associated with my period. My flow is much lighter. My moods are completely stable and my sex drive has improved. Not to mention my skin is in perfect condition. I have the energy I have always wanted at this time of the month and finally I can get myself out of bed (I have missed school because of my pain). For some, this drug may not help. But for others, like me, it can change your life. I am so happy...maybe it has something to do with actually having PMDD symptoms. If you do not have PMDD maybe this drug will backfire. I don't know. But for now, I am so grateful for Yaz.