effects of the patch?

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-21-2004
effects of the patch?
3
Fri, 09-17-2004 - 10:25pm
I just started the patch a week ago on Sunday and I was wondering if I could already be experiencing some side effects. The only b.c. I have ever taken was the "mini pill" because I was nursing, but I only took it for a month. Anyway, I have always had pretty bad cramps when it come to my period but I have been cramping for almost 3 weeks now (I know I have only been on the patch for 1 week but could the pill have contributed to that too?) I am also experiencing some major mood swings and irritability. Everything and everybody gets on my nerves so bad. I'm just not usually like this. I'm getting some pretty bad headaches too. Is all of this normal? Like I said earler, I have never really taken any birth control so I have no clue. Thanks for any input!!

Mandy

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Fri, 09-17-2004 - 11:51pm
Hi Mandy, welcome!

Mood swings, headaches, and cramping are all side effects of hormonal contraceptives, so that is probably why you feel the way you do. It usually takes 2 or 3 cycles on a method or pill for your body to adjust to the hormones in the method you are using. You should begin to feel better during your second cycle. Let us know how you're doing, ok?

Hugs,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-05-2004
Mon, 09-20-2004 - 11:31am
Hi Mandy,

Yes, it all sounds like the patch is causing these effects. I just finished my first month on the patch, and had a lot of worries. I had breast tenderness (OUCH), mild cramps, and moodiness/being overly emotional. The period I just had was different too, much heavier, and I have been and emotional basket case! I started my second month yesterday and hope this will get better. Give it a couple of months...that's what I'm doing to see if it gets any better.

--wantahug

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-31-2004
Mon, 09-20-2004 - 11:56am
It seems like some people are just more sensitive to Birth control than others. I have tried several things (the shot, the pill, and the patch) and have never been satisfied. I seem to gain a lot of weight on any of them. You might just be super sensitive to hormones. I'm trying to get the IUD now, but the patch would be my second choice. Give it a couple months for your body to adjust. It seems to be better than depo and easier than the pill.