Well, I have reading lots of reviews about this pill since my doc...

Well, I have reading lots of reviews about this pill since my doctor prescribed it, and being a science teacher, I have to say I am disappointed by how little many women who have issues (or not) go into specifics about their situation. So, I am going to be detailed here about this. Maybe if your situation is similar to mine, this could be helpful... :) -I am 23...nearly 24 years old. -5'10", 140-145 pounds. -Very active, I at least ride my bike and/or go for a walk every day, and I try to work out at least twice a week. Healthy eater, but I still like to indulge...pretty much everyday. -Non-smoker, rarely drink. -Occasionally have coffee, mostly a tea drinker, avoid soda and dairy products. -I have never used birth control before. -I have been sexually active for approximately 3 years with one partner. We have always used condoms. -I am on the last week of my first month. -Reasons for going on the pill: -Although very regular (comes approximately every 35 days like clockwork), I have very heavy and long periods (*Lots* of clotting, eight days long-my mother had a history of her periods lasting as long as two weeks as she has gotten older, I would like to avoid this.) -Intense migraines and headaches, generally around my period. -Intense cramping, diarrhea, and bloating before and during my period. -Lack in energy, decrease in sex drive, and increase in stress level/unhappiness before and during my period. -My doctor actually had me start the day AFTER my last period. -I take it at 8:00 each night (set my alarm so I don't forget). -Since starting Loestrin 24 Fe: -Increase in energy level; however, I have found it more difficult to fall asleep. I also get very hot at night. -Two headaches in the past 24 days, compared to the at least 3 severe ones I would get a week. -Increase in sex drive, though I think we are both feeling a little less "afraid" of having any accidents, so that may be the difference. -Breast slightly swollen (like they would be around my period before) and only slightly sensitive, but nothing unbearable. -My mood has been generally good. Less stressed. Pretty happy lately. -No pre-period cramping or diarrhea, but lots of bloating; however, I am always bloated and gassy because I have some digestion issues. -No weight gain yet other than the normal water weight that changes daily regardless. -Eyes are little dry, not tearing up when irritated. I am not sure if I can cry, and I used to be able to at the drop of hat. - No real nausea. -Skin is the same, actually my complexion looks slightly more even. My breakout zones (blackheads on my nose and chin are still there) haven't changed, but no whiteheads have appeared lately. -Some breakthrough bleeding by the second week, but barely anything. If you had the kind of periods I had, a spot of light brown is nothing at all. I usually don't even need a panty liner. All in all, I have been pretty pleased so far.