Yasmin and ectopic pregnancy

I have been on about 5 different formulations of BCP's in my lifetime - the last being Ortho Tricyclene and Loestrin. Whenever I tried the BCP's, I dealt with horrible acne (I had acne normally but it really went out of control while on the BCP), massive weight gain (like 10 to 20 pounds) and depression (crying mainly).

After the birth of my son in 1997, my midwife inserted a copper type IUD due to the fact that I wasn't interested in more children. After 2 years, I suffered an ectopic pregnancy where the baby and my left ovary and fallopian tube were removed. I created a web page on my experience for others who want more information about the IUD and I frequently get asked about what type of birth control I use currently.

Sadly, for many years my husband and I either used condoms (which just leave me worring every month as to whether it worked or not) or abstenence (which is no fun). I decided to finally try Yasmin. I heard it was different from the other pill formulations out there so I thought I'd give it a shot. It was made available to the U.S. market in May of 2001 and I have just started taking it in January of 2003. I will be entering onto my 3rd month and pack in one more week.

I have experienced breast tenderness and a definite increase in size to my breasts (not sure how much, but I've heard of some women increasing by 1 to 2 sizes) and there was an initial small acne break out in the 3rd week of my first pack, but since then my face is completely clear. I have not experienced ANY bloating (and I normally experienced this even when I wasn't on any birth control) nor have I gained any weight. (normally in the past I usually gained quite a bit of weight within the first few months of taking a BCP) I did have a slight headache before my period arrived, but I normally get that every month anyway even when I'm pill free.

I guess my opinion is that I am very happy so far with this pill. If any women out there have had weight problems or acne problems on other pill formulations in the past, I would suggest you give Yasmin a try because it just might work for you.