Question about OTCLo

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-15-2004
Question about OTCLo
3
Fri, 09-03-2004 - 1:26pm
I have been on OTC Lo for 6 months now. I had no side effects during the first 4 months, but the last 2 months I have had some strange side effects. I have tenderness in one breast only and only in one location. I never experienced this before. I spoke with the nurse at the Drs office and she said this was normal. The tenderness occurs during weeks 1 and 2 and starts to taper off during week 3. Has anyone else had this experience? I also get extremely nauseous during the first week of pills. I am wondering if it is time to try something else. Any suggestions?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Fri, 09-03-2004 - 6:03pm
Hi uagirl41381,

We have has members post about having side effects from hormonal contraceptives long after side effects that are common during the first 2-3 cycles have disappeared. Have you increased your consumption of foods and beverages containing caffeine? Caffeine can cause any cysts in breasts to be more sensitive. If a diet change doesn't work then perhaps a pill switch might work for you. Let us know how you're doing, ok?

Hugs,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-15-2004
Fri, 09-03-2004 - 11:34pm
Thanks for the response. I actually gave up most caffeine about 2 years ago. I still have the occasional Starbucks Frappaccino or piece of chocolate, but no major increase lately. Since OTC LO already has such a low dose of hormones, will going with another BCP with higher doses make the symptoms worse?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sat, 09-04-2004 - 8:54am
If your pill is the problem then whether a pill with more or less estrogen will help depends on your body chemistry. There are pills with 20mcg or 30mcg of estrogen and NuvaRing has only 15mcg of estrogen. See ‘Your pills and what’s in them…’ in the FAQs for some possible choices. Talk with your doctor and see what s/he recommends. Let us know what you decide, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill