MITTON IS BACK :) Share with us your own hormonal contraception experiences here in the comments...I find it fascinating how everyone experiences pills etc so differently! And hit LIKE if you enjoyed the video! xxx
Melanie Murphy watching you guys has been helping me get through a lot of hard times lately. And let me tell you i do not recommend the Mirena Coil at all. It's not as painful to put in as you would think, but I've had it for 8 months now and it has given me depression and anxiety like no other contraception method that I've tried before. I am literally going on an appointment to take it off tomorrow so hopefully it'll all get better.
I have recently started a channel and I talk about my disability in quite a frank way. I have watched your videos for ages, and think you talk about issues that are seen as taboo or embarrassing in such a wonderful and empowering way. I took inspiration from this honesty when creating my disability videos. I have a condition which means I can’t eat or drink, use a wheelchair and have heart issues. I also talk about books on my channel, as that is my absolute passion. Thank you so much for the inspiration and your bravery at talking about the real issues. I have really struggled over the past few months as I don’t really have many friends anymore. They have moved on with their lives away from me. UA-cam has been an amazing way to feel a part of something again. On a second note - YOU ARE BOTH AUTHORS! I am so happy to say that I have Hannah’s book ready to read on my shelf and am SO READY for Melanie’s book to come out. I can’t wait to give my reviews on them and am so ridiculously happy that they exist. 😊 ❤
You two are so great! It's amazing that you can talk about topics like sex and relationships in a healthy and natural way, especially for teens who NEED to know this stuff and don't learn about it in school. So thanks for making these vids. They are definitely appreciated! Lots of love, Rosa xx
Right?! Even my parents don't feel comfortable talking about these topics. I'm a teenager and i was so worried not understanding myself until I found their channels.
I read that 13% of U.S. teens have already had sex by the age of 15 and 70% by the age of 19. When this many teenagers have sex, it’s important they know HOW to do it and how to keep themselves protected from STDs and unwanted pregnancy. When teenagers don’t learn about sex at home or at school; where can they learn about it? What a lot of teenagers would do is to watch porn, and that gives them unrealistic expectations about body image and sex. Do you ever see the guy taking time to put on a condom in porn? No! Isn’t it better to teach young people how to have proper sex and have a natural relationship to it, than ignoring the fact that people in the age of 15-19 also have sex and making them deal with it alone, afraid to talk about it? I think that sex education is crucial important for teenagers’ safety and expectations in the future.
I really appreciate that i can learn all these knowledge from them but there are many young people out there aren't educated. They have to learn themselves and that can cause many serious problems. It would be way better if school or our parents can just be more open and teach us how to be safe instead of not allowing us to have sex.
Going on the pill was literally the worst experience of my life, it brought on severe depression, huge personality changes ( like constant PMS), weird body changes and incredible cramps that literally made me pass out more than once. I stayed on it for months hoping it would get better but it only got worse. After about nine months I went off it and immediately started to feel better, but it took about five years to get back to my normal self and some of the changes have never gone away.... I learned much later that there are several questions doctors should ask you before hand to figure out which type of pill ( or non hormonal option) would be best for your body, and the doc or who prescribed them to me didn't ask me any questions at all..... All birth control is not the same and does not work the same way on everyone. Please, if you're thinking of starting any sort of hormonal birth control do your research before hand and go to a doctor who actually helps you figure out which one to try, instead of just giving you the one they make money off of from the drug company....!
This may sound harsh, but to me there's not a single guy in the world I'd consider it would be worth going on the pill for. I adore my partner, however, my physical health is more important to me than another person's perceived less pleasurable experience. I only ever used condoms and never head one break nor any pregnancy scares. So even just from a pragmatic perspective I see no reason to put unnecessary hormones into my body. To each their own but how easily gynecologists prescribe the pill to growing young girls (I got recommended to go on the pill when I was 13 due to cramps despite not being sexually active for another 5 years) is honestly disgusting and disheartening. We still don't know the full effect the pill has on brain development, etc. It's so irresponsible.
I'm on the patch and have been for nearly 3 years, and I think it's so underrated! I hardly know anyone who is on it, but oh my is it easy to use (you just slap it on once a week) and it also still works if you're sick etc. I found that it also really improved my skin. I did have awful PMS to begin with, but that defo calmed down after about 6 months. Loved this video xx
Immy1995 agreed I get on really well with the patch but nobody I know is on it, I think nurses don't recommend it as it costs more but I recommend it to everyone 😄
Immy1995 yeah..i know a few people who have it. but my problem is a) its ugly and i hate it 😂 b) when you go to the beach etc theres a visable patch on your butt c) i know friends whove had it fall off d) it gets all dirty and nasty like a week in!
Immy1995 I LOVE the patch and yes I feel like so many people don't even know about it! You only have to change it once a week unlike taking a pill everyday!
Maria C It seems more risky though, like it can fall off, get dirty and be visible to others... Some people can handle taking a pill everyday and some can't so I'm glad there's the patch for those people!
Im on the patch its the only thing that i've found does not give me major side effects like mood swings. Alot of people have not even heard of the patch its *AMAZING*
I love being on the pill! Before I started taking it, my period cramps were so painful I couldn't get out of bed. Also so much blood for 7 days straight. I was much moodier and just a mess. Now I feel like I can actually have a life while on my "period" and I'm not as moody and shitty. Sex is also nice because no condoms!
tbh that's a big reason I stopped going back on hormonal contraception and why I'm starting to use "Natural Cycles" (for just incase) because during the past two years it's been mostly ladies for me - well, more girls than boys anyway :) x
I went on the pill three different times (and on 3 different versions of it) but each time I had to come off it because I got bad nausea and headaches. Last year I got the implant and honestly it's been AMAZING for me. I don't get any side effects and I barely have a period (if I do it's extremely light.) I know it doesn't work for everyone but I would say it's worth a try if the pill doesn't work for you and you're terrified of the idea of the coil!
Miranda Marvin oh my gosh I agree I have had the implant for 2 and a half years and it has helped my mood so much and I for the first time I have been able to lose weight. plus you dont have to remember to take anything for the 3 years it's in ❤❤❤
OH i would love that, but in fucking Poland it costs like 210 pounds!! :/ I am on the pill tho, for like 4 years now, i have terrible mood swings, and practically NO sex drive, but what can you do ;/ im terrifed of the coil too. Help. hahaha
i was scared of going on the pill bc i worried it would make my mental health problems worse. i was in good communication with my doctor and psych, so i went on it, and honestly it hasn't made a difference either way. all the mood and cycle effects i always experienced have stayed the same, and that's okay with me. my skin is better, my period is regulated, for now i prefer not to use condoms with my partner and i love that, and what i didn't expect is i feel very in control and empowered. i really feel my priority is my health and happiness, so i know if things change i'll reassess it, but so far it's been very positive for me. exciting! thank you for this & all your insight, u legend women xxxxx
So glad that you guys are talking about the truths about the pill, I went on the pill and had some really bad side effects but all my friends seemed to not have any side effects at all so I thought it was just me! It’s so nice to know that other people have had similar experiences to me!
I have had a coil for around 3 years now and absolutely love it! Currently in a long term relationship so just use that and have never had any problems at all. I've had both the coil that lessens your periods (either reduces the volume of blood lost or can stop periods all together). However mine is now just for contreception only. Getting it put in was a little scary and very uncomfortable but its over so quickly and after that neither you or your partner can feel it!
This video has helped me so much thank you Melanie! just switched my pill after 5 years due to the mood swings and decided whether to do the mirena coil myself. This vid is helping me come to a decision in relation to contraception so thank you so much! love how normal you make talking about sex!
So glad I found your channels. You are the only people i know feel comfortable talking about these topics. I have learned a lot and i just want to say thank you. I think we need to be more open about sex. Not understanding ourselves can cause many serious problems.
I started the pill a few days ago and I've got to say that so far it's only been horrific. My periods have been all over the place for 7 years now and I finally had enough, went to the doctor and turns out I have PCOS. So yeah I started the pill last week but for some reason it's caused horrific heavy bleeding so far and I had to stop revising today as I had such debilitating cramps. I hope it gets better bc I'm not hopeful so far xxx
Thank you so much for doing this video! Iv been off cerazette for over three months now and OMG the emotions came flooding in only now starting to balance out, but I'm feeling so much more like my old self, but I also came off my anxiety medication which just made me sleepy all the time! I'm in a long term relationship and thankfully my bf has rode the rollercoaster with me that is coming off the pill! I have no intensions of going back on the pill. 😊 💊
Hannah, I had an IUD put in a few months ago. You shouldn't be overly scared. I took ibuprofen about an hour before it was put in (my GP recommended it). It was very painful to get put in but the pain only happened twice for about two or three seconds. (I moaned lol.) The rest was only mildly uncomfortable. My gynaecologist asked me if I wanted to know what she was doing and she talked me through the whole process which really reassured me. I haven't had a period since, only some spotting in the first couple of months which is normal. Haven't noticed side-effects, but I didn't on the pill either. Really pleased, and that is me set for three years!
This is such an awesome video. I'm 26 and I've never been on the pill, but practically everyone I know has and they all have such different stories. It's so interesting to hear other people's perspectives on things!
I used to get the injections which stopped my periods straight away and then I got fed up of going to the doctors every 3 months so got the implant. I got told it was different so may not work straight away but it did, contraception seems to work very well for me as I got no side effects. I recently came off the implant because I'll be donating my eggs and having periods again is honestly horrible, the pain and the weight gain has upset me but it'll be worth it! Once I donate I'll be going back to the implant as I love it!
I was the very very rare statistic and got what's called pulmonary embolisms, blood clots on the lungs from taking the combined contraceptive pill. Just a word of warning that it's not impossible, although rare, just be aware if you get achey legs, back ache or chest pains. I should have noticed earlier, but the symptoms were very subtle - if I'd waited even a week I probably wouldn't be here (cliché but I'm very lucky to be alive). just be aware gals, it's very rare but yeah. thanks for these videos Mel and Hannah, you're both my favs xo
I got the Mirena right before Christmas, and I *LOVE* it. I was on the pill for about 3-4 years before and noticed it was kinda killing my libido, so was not interested at all in taking it any more. I've had it for nearly 6 months now and it is one of the best decisions I've ever made. When I came off the pill, it opened my eyes to how much the hormones in it were affecting my mood and ability to handle certain situations, and with the localization of the hormone it makes it virtually unnoticable. Getting it put in is definitely not the best feeling, but only takes about 5-10 minutes from the time the dr comes in until when they leave. An added bonus is that I barely get periods anymore, and when I do it's only spotting that I need a little liner for :) However, if you aren't in a stable monogamous relationship it's not the best choice, as the dr's say it can make you more susceptible to infections if there are multiple partners. I sound a bit preachy and I know it's not for everyone, but in my opinion it's the best birth control out there! Lots of love from Canada xox.
Thank you for this discussion! I'm married and went off the pill for low libido. (The irony is not lost.) It's been two months and my libido Is back my skin is clear, and I honestly feel more like a woman than I ever have before. we are using condoms now and experimenting with non-hormonal methods like the sponge and diaphragms. Seems like everyone wants you to be on the pill... my obgyn wouldn't even discuss nonhormonal methods with me! She gets paid for prescribing them, of course.
Enjoying some vintage Melanie and Hannah content 😂 it’s funny to see how little you’ve changed but also like how much has happened since then, it feels so weird having seen Hannah’s hormone diaries series over the years like I know how everything will turn out and these versions of Hannah and Melanie have no clue (nor the Clue app, probably)
I'm on the copper coil (non-hormonal IUD) and to be honest, yes it was pretty painful getting it put in (more so than the marina would be as the marina is smaller) but the whole experience is over pretty quickly and the doctor and nurse I had were so lovely and held my hand and made sure I was as comfortable as I could be. My only issue with it was the increased painful and heavy periods as mine were pretty painful and heavy before that anyway but I believe with the marina you don't get those side effects since it's still hormonal. So I'd say if you want to try the marina then just go for it! Take a couple of ibuprofen half an hour to an hour beforehand, make sure you have someone to take you home and look after you for the rest of the day and it'll be over before you know it. I wouldn't ever go back to the implant or pill or anything else now. I'm really happy I braved getting the coil.
I was on the pill (also Cerazette because I have Factov V Leiden which increases risk of blood clots) for 5 years. I had a pretty good experience with it, but decided to switch to the Mirena coil last year and I LOVE it. Srsly I recommend it to all my friends. The insertion isn't exactly comfortable, but wasn't anywhere near as painful as I was expecting so I wouldn't let that put you off! Have a chat with your GP/clinic doctor if you're unsure or have any questions but I think it's so underrated
I 150% support your choice to stop taking the pill, I started my period when I was 16, but it wasn't until I was 19 that I started having regular periods. However that being said, my body would still occasionally go a good 2 or 3 months without a period. When I was on my period, I knew that I would experience extreme pains to the point where I would pass out and/or throw up, my pms would last 2 weeks and my ovulation pains were so bad as well! so I basically had 1 week of the cycle where I wasn't bloated, moody, in pain and all the other shite. I understand the benefits of not being on the pill, and honestly I'd rather not be on it, but for me, if I wasn't on it, I wouldn't be able to cope. I've only been on it for a year, and it has helped me so so much!
I was just having a conversation with a friend over the misconception of the coil, Im a massive advocate for them after having the mirena for 2 and a half years and having just recently changed over to Jaydess ( non hormones to hormones) the jaydess is brilliant and my doctor recently changed to it herself as the dosage is equivalent to half a mini pill a week - so its dosage is extremely minimal! I changed over as a means to lighten my periods. It honestly is the best contraception for me. For both occasions I laughed after it was done because it was just so quick. The "pain" that people experience is merely 5 seconds of an intense cramp and then I was covered for 10 years with the Mirena and 3 years with Jaydess. Just wanting to dispel this idea that it is painful, when it could be such an amazing solution for so many people not having to worry about their daily pill routine.
I'd like to share my experience with the mirena coil (hormonal IUD): I got the mirena coil in September 2012. the insertion was pretty painful but swift and I had a constant period for a couple of weeks. Then, my period stopped. No more cramps, no more hormonal craziness...I LOVE it! You can keep it in for 5 years and in my relationship (after both getting STI tests) we've just been relying on it and it's been perfect. Not looking forward to taking it out this Autumn thought! I'm happy to answer any questions by the way :) big hugs to you all.
fran rose I'm already on my second mirena coil and as far as I can remember, having it taken out wasn't painful for me. The insertion was way worse when I first got it. The wonderful thing about being a woman is though that we tend to forget how painful things were. 😅
IUDs! First time I got an IUD, I noticed all the imperfections on the freeway. I was so pissed with every smallest bump. I also had to hide how much pain due to living with a parent. The pain is really bad, but only for a day. Get it done in the morning, take pain killers, wear a pad, and by evening it's better. Avoid pot holes and bumps on the way home! I think it's worth it though. One day of major pain for years of security. I did have issues one time with Paragard (copper IUD). The copper is long-term, non-hormonal and I've been told it is recommended for women who already given birth (due to size). It was the first one I had because I wanted 8 whole years of protection. The periods are so bad - so bloody and crampy and that's the price you pay for no hormones. I trusted it and it shifted and made me so insecure about it. I had a doctor check and they noticed nothing. I started a new one because I knew something was wrong. I went onto Skyla and I LOVED it. Smaller doses of hormones compared to Mirena so you get your period but I had no side effects. I miss it! I'm on Mirena now and I get cramps when aroused - the same cramps I had when I was on Nuva Ring when I was 16. I'm going into my third month on it and it's lessened somewhat. I have the lightest period now - which is a good thing, but I do wish I had Skyla. I chose Mirena because living in the US, I was concerned with political power over contraceptives and I knew it would be more financially secure in 5 years. Also, the strings are rigid in the beginning and could slightly hurt your male partner, but over time they become soft. After 6 months, you can just check the strings monthly. The Nuva Ring was interesting, but wouldn't try it again. I got cramps when I became aroused and I feel like that carried onto my current IUD. I didn't have this issue with Skyla. Anyway, you and your partner don't feel it because it goes in your pubic bone area and it's fine to take it out weekly and you can choose to skip periods. Also, if you have a safe living situations then you can place it in the fridge and have it last 6 months (rather than 3 months outside a fridge). I didn't like it because I was paranoid to leave it in more than 7 days and worried about forgetting. I also did not appreciate disposing of it. You had to keep the packaging to seal it back up and dispose of it anywhere. I do not think people are responsible to do that! Which means you are disposing of so much hormones in an unsanitary way! I could never take the pill because I forget to take my daily allergy medicine. The patch is a big nope because I do not want something on my skin. The shot just freaks me out. The one in the arm creeps me out the most. I'd say I'm happy with an IUD.
I'm on the patch and it's been so good to me! Also, every nurse i've spoken to about it has really bigged it up and said they don't understand why more people aren't on it and that it's a great option for people who don't get along with other stuff!
I got the implant about 2 weeks ago and so far it's working really well for me! If you are already on the mini-pill/POP I would recommend it. I was told to expect bleeding for the first few months but because my body is already used to the hormones (I had been on the mini-pill for 1-2 years beforehand) I have experienced no changes so far, fingers crossed! And no periods! If you're considering it don't be nervous about getting it put in, the worst bit is the local aenesthetic which doesn't hurt, its more of a dull pain. Although around where it has been put in is still heavily bruised, although not sore! (My Dad thought it was a tattoo it's so dark!!) But when the bruising is gone hopefully I'll be protected for 3 whole years woo!
I've always been scared of the pill and anything with hormones, cause of what my mom and grandma went through. So I got the paragard IUD. It has definitely made my period worse but it's honestly SO worth it.
I've been using the Gynefix for the past 7 years and i'm loving it. It is basicslly a copper IUD but instead of the plasticframe it is a nylon thread. Plus it is suitalbe especially for women who have not given birth because of its small size (i got mine at 16). Before that i had 3 different pills in 2 years and all the sideeffect you could imagine.
I got the Implant quite a few months ago and theres not many good things said about it, so far im absolutely loving it iv had no bad symptoms and my bleeding is pretty much settled now. id really recommend giving it a go.
Talking about side effects, don't let the clots scare you! One of the medications I'm on can cause the entire top layer of your skin to detach. A painkiller I have to take sometimes (ironically for ovulation pain) can totally screw up your stomach and cause depression and anxiety. The pill is scary but as long as you keep getting your blood pressure checked and are aware of the warning signs, you'll be fine! (Also I've been on dianette for almost four years?? But because my hirsutism has gotten worse due to my body building up a tolerance to my other medication and stress, so I'm praying my doctor doesn't decide to go "you need to come off this now" because it does help somewhat)
Some friends and I have experienced both the hormonal coil AND the copper coil... Generally VERY painful the first day, and then you don't have to think about it for YEARS. Seriously. A true revelation for all of us, so comfortable, it's just not recommended for people who already have very painful periods (because it tends to be a bit more painful the first day) and with th copper coil, it's not for those who have very bloody periods, tends to amplify them a bit. I've noticed it reduces with time, though. But guys, really. COIL = FREEDOM
I had my Skyla IUD put in 4 months ago, and it was the BEST decision I've ever made! Lower hormones, more reliable, and virtually NO side affects (for myself at least). I hate the pill too! Explore all your options ladies until you find what's right for your body :)
Can't wait to order your book, Melanie! I was on the pill for about a year before getting an IUD--honestly, I loved both, but my fave thing about the IUD is that I don't get a period at all, and it prevents pregnancy for 5-7 years, or until you decide to take it out
I'm 17 and I'm getting the Mirena put in during my surgery to help combat my endometriosis, so I'm so glad you guys said positive things about it since I don't really have any other options. I've been on the pill for 4 years and have been through 4 different ones, I changed because I kept getting my actual period (not spotting). I'm on a new one now but it hasn't worked at all. I've been getting my period every 10 days (which is how my period is off the pill), my iron is garbage, and my emotions are crazy. I never had any symptoms with the other pills so this is really new and crappy. Also I've been getting terrible "period" pains when I'm not even on my period? Its happened for years but its been getting way worse.
Must admit, I am just like Melanie with contraception - depending on whether or not I was in a relationship would depend on whether I would take an oral contraceptive (i.e. the pill) or not! I am definitely considering so many new things thanks to The Hormone Diaries and honest videos such as this one.
Watching you guys has been helping me get through a lot of hard times lately. And let me tell you i do not recommend the Mirena Coil at all. It's not as painful to put in as you would think, but I've had it for 8 months now and it has given me depression and anxiety like no other contraception method that I've tried before. I am literally going on an appointment to take it off tomorrow so hopefully it'll all get better.
what Hannah was saying about the hormones being localised from the coil: same thing is true for the NuvaRing and it is much cheaper and you can take it out yourself if it's not suiting you! I feel as though not many people know about it, but I couldn't recommend it enough. I tried 3 different brands of the pill, all of which gave me awful side-effects but the ring has been a dream!
I would HIGHLY recommend the Mirena. Yes, it was painful to get put in, but the intense pain (I thought I might pass out) only lasted for about 30 seconds. Afterwards, there was pretty severe cramping that kept me in bed for the next 48 hours because I didn't want to take pain killers. Afterwards, I'd have probably 2-3 strong cramps a day for the next 4 weeks, and then my cramps subsided to the point where I'll get a cramp or two every couple weeks now. But I used to get cramps daily without the Mirena so this was a huge improvement for me. Additionally, after about 2 and a half months of constant spotting, my period and the spotting stopped completely. I got mine in last August and I wish I had done it sooner. I didn't have any side effects that I can trace specifically to Mirena, in fact, my skin cleared up a lot because of the constant hormone dosage. I'm definetly going to get a second one put in once this one is taken out because it gives me such security, and other than the occasional mood swings I don't experience any symptoms of PMS.
I'm on the progestin only pill and I flipping love it: stable moods, no periods (haven't had one since July when I went on it) and little to no weight gain! My mood being more stable has been my favourite thing about it (i.e. stable for me, I have schizoaffective, so my moods are problematic, but I am in general calmer!)
honestly thank you for this video it's come at the perfect time for me! Basically, I'm 14 and in the past 6 months i've had lots of issues with periods and pain, with having scans and tests i've learnt it is most likely endometriosis, and so i have to have a full operation which is both the way that diagnoses it and can be used to remove any presents cysts for example. In the mean time i've been put on the pill, first i tried Levest (a combined pill) but that caused me a whole lot of nausea and i'm currently, as Hannah said she took for those 7 years, on Cerazette. So far on cerazette i've had far less pain and no nausea, but have been having headaches and a lot more acne. I'm also very sensitive to side effects of pills and so during my operation (under full anaesthetic) I have been offered to have the Mirena coil put in (which I feel is a lot better way to put it in as i'll be knocked tf out) as progesterone is the hormone that helps with things such as endometriosis. This was a bit longer then expected sorry but I do appreciate these videos a lot, especially as i am 14 it isn't really a common thing I can talk to people about and these videos are very helpful x
I've started taking a pill two days ago and this video helped me a lot cause there was still a lot of things I didn't know, thanks for talking about all those important things!💖
I'm on Aubra and I'm lucky that I don't have lots of side effects. Thank God. The pill is actually very good for me. It's good that you guys are talking about that.
Dianette worked wonders for me for acne when I was a teen and also caused no problems for me like comments here but any way it is no longer available in Ireland to be prescribed as contraception (seems for a several reasons) so they don't really give it out anymore! I have since been on Yasmin the last couple of years and zero side effects or issues for me. I've tried about ten different pills over the last ten years and some had horrendous side effects and some none. Don't just try one type guys and give up! Keep trying as you will eventually find one that agrees with your body 😊
Last year because of the insurance I had at the time I had to switch birth control pills. The pill they gave me was the first one I had ever had. just some generic brand. While I was on this pill I noticed I had terrible cramps and pms. My skin would break out up to two weeks before my period and I'd even start cramping a few days before. The bleeding was heavier too. I hated it. So about two months ago I asked my doctor to switch me back to the second pill I'd been on. I hadn't realized until the switch to the other pill just how much I had liked the one I was now requesting. My pms has been almost unnoticeable, the cramps are gentler, the bleeding is way lighter and I don't need to eat EVERYTHING in the house. It's good to take notice of these things so you know what agrees with your body. I'm so glad I switched back. I also want to mention that I started taking the pill when I was about sixteen (almost ten years ago) in order to regulate my period and help with my PCOS. I'm not having sex. I just want my body to work as it should.
I was on Dianette for a few years and it was so good to me!! I'm so thankful for it for because it cleared up my extremely heavy periods and helped my PCOS. It's crazy how different pills can affect different people.
Also Hannah, I highly encourage you to look more thoroughly into the Mirena coil. They say it's localized, but in your body everything is connected to everything else. Your blood flows through your entire body. Mirena also has side effects that are hormonally related as well.
This is amazing timing! I have been having a lot of mood swings and random periods with my contraceptive pill recently so it's great to hear your experiences and advice. Love these videos
I've been on a pill called Lolo for 2 years now and it's only been great for me. It's kind of a strange pill with estrogen and progestin for 24 days, estrogen only for 2 days, and 2 days of sugar pill. It's meant to shorten (to 4 days max) or in some cases like mine eliminate your period. I'm in a relationship and for the first 2 years we relied on only condoms but I wanted "double protection". Also, I'm anemic and I was having very heavy 7 day long periods so it was getting to a point where I would be fainting while on my period or unable to get out of bed. Now I haven't had a period for 2 years and it's amazing! I luckily have not experienced any negative side effects from it. I am starting to get a bit lazy when it comes to condoms because of being on the pill and being in a relationship, so thank you for the reminder not to rely on it. So sorry you had to go through such a difficult experience Melanie
The Mirena has mostly been great for me. The insertion was a breeze, I have almost no period, no cramping BUT it has destroyed my skin. I had finally gotten to clear skin that I was super happy about and then I got the Mirena and now I have terrible acne on my back and cystic bumps on my cheeks and chin.
The copper coil is another non-hormonal option. Its great for those that have terrible mood changes with the hormonal contraceptives. It's not a great option for those with a heavy/painful period already. And the insertion of the mirena/copper coil is not that traumatic. Get the doctor to prescribe you something to relax you. Its all over in 5 minutes. Fair warning: you may have more severe cramps for the first 3 periods after. I couldn't deal with the changes to my mood and I've since got the copper coil, never going back, its been amazing.
Melanie, I'd get the leg bruises checked just in case! I have a blood disorder (Factor V Leiden) which increases my chances of having blood clots, and my chances of having blood clots are extremely higher if I use hormone based contraception. The problem is that people don't get checked for blood disorders prior to being put onto the pill or other hormonal contraceptives cause many women to develop blood clots, DVTs and PEs at an abnormally young age. So if you're worried about a possible blood clot, get it checked now for clots and/or a blood disorder because you don't want to put any strain on your valves and do permanent damage!!
I've been on the same pill for 3 years, and honestly I feel like I have no decent pill stories. I really like my pill, it doesn't cause me any problems with my skin (cleared up some skin issues on my back actually). I had no significant weight gain or loss. It has assisted my headaches a little as well. I may have had some mood changes at the start, but now I pretty much cry easier at sad dog videos and that's about it! I'm in a long term relationship where we are both 'clean' and we use a combination of the pill/condoms and the pull out method. In cases where I'm sick we use condoms every time for up to a week afterwards.
i got the mirena iud in april, it was actually nowhere near as painful as i was expecting, i just felt a weird pressure and then i had period pain like cramps for a few hours after. i had a very light period for about 2 weeks and then i haven't had any bleeding since. i'd say the pain is worth it to not have to think about contraception for 5 years!
I highly recommend the Mirena. It honestly didn't hurt that much and the insertion is super quick anyways. Having previously suffered bad side effects from the combined pill (Microlite), using a method of contraception that is 99.95% effective but also has very little hormonal side effects is great. I've had one for a year and a half now.
Being on the pill has cleared up my acne so much!! I used to get very extreme acne but after a year and a bit of being on the pill ive noticed such a huge difference, im definitely glad i started taking it👌^_^
I've been on several different types of pill, the bar, the injection and now I have the Merina IUD. I've had problematic periods since I was 16 so I've always needed some sort of hormones to control the symptoms. I was lucky that I had health insurance which covered me going into the hospital and being put under for the insertion of the IUD. I now have no periods and it's great. Like Hannah said, the hormones only act locally and only 1% of the hormones enter the bloodstream. I'm also in a long term relationship so it's great for me.
Loved this video ❤ I'm on dianette at the moment after taking roaccutane and people keep saying I should come off it for risk of blood clot and saying it's not good or natural, but it is keeping the acne away and it has made things so much more manageable with cramps and timing and regularity. This video helped me realise it's not weird to be on it at my age or for my reasons so thanks Mel x💚
I came off the pill over a year ago after being on it for over 6 years. I was taking "Daphne" which is a generic pill for Diane 35. I was put on it because of my acne, my very irregular cycles and the terrible abdominal pain, headache and back pain I used to get when I was on my period. My gynaecologist also had my blood tested and found out that my levels of "male hormones" where too high. The pill did help with all that but after 5-6 years, I realised I was different. I felt extremely down, I used to tell my boyfriend that my life was useless and meaning it. On top of that, my sex drive was completely gone, to a point where I wouldn't even think about sex for weeks. I started watching UA-cam videos, reading articles, trying to figure out what was wrong with me. I considered many causes to all these things until I talked to a friend of mine who had gone off the pill and I realised that, maybe it was what was causing all these symptoms. I also did some further research on my pill specifically and found out that not only does it contain estrogen+progesterone but also something called cyproterone acetate which is an antiandrogen and progestogen, which is a substance that blocks male hormones (I suffer from hormonal imbalance yay, which explains my irregular cycles and acne) and therefore helped A LOT with my acne, it basically got rid of it altogether. However, it is also one of the components of the drug that is used to chemically "castrate" pedophiles. Besides, I found out that combined contraceptives are group 1 carcinogens, things for which scientists have enough evidence to say that it causes cancer in humans (here is the WHO's list of carcinogenic substances, combined contraceptives are on p.6 monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/Table4.pdf ). I don't mean to scare anyone here, I just think it's important to know and be educated on what you are putting in your body :) Yes, my acne came back. It's better now, but it's a healing process, it's not going to be gone in a few days (although I wish it could). If this is happening to you (if you're still reading this haha), I know how it feels but give yourself and your body time to heal :) My cycles are not really irregular anymore, only quite long (+/- 60 days). But the food I eat now is different as well, and I think this plays a big role especially in my acne. The pill did temporarily help, but all it did was hide the symptoms. Oh and I gained 4 kilos in a couple of days when I was first put on it. If you're still reading this, I'm sorry for the novel :D I hope it helped and... I really highly recommend reading the book called "Taking charge of your fertility", it is full of really useful and important information. Understanding how your body works is so important and empowering. I learned a lot by reading it, although I have always been interested in and had read a lot on that subject :) Also, Victoria from Femmehead makes a lot of great videos on all types of contraception, the menstrual cycle etc. When I first found her channel, I binge watched all her videos :D PS: you're beautiful, all of you. Love yourself and your body ♥
i just got the Kyleena IUD put in! it lasts as long as the Mirena (5 years) but is smaller (meant for women who have never been pregnant or given birth) and has a much lower dose of hormones. the insertion did hurt, and i was woozy for quite a while after, but that’s bc i wasn’t prepared. if you plan on getting an IUD put in, make sure to eat beforehand (your blood pressure will drop) and to take ibuprofen. also, my IUD was 100% free through Planned Parenthood :) and they DONT even accept my insurance. i applied for their Family Planning Benifit Program and got my IUD in the same day.
I'm having Detrinelle from 4 years and i must say it has no side effects and it removed all of my acne when i was sixteen so my experience with hormonal contraception is really good. kisses from Madrid btw :)
Using the mirena coil (IUD) and love it. No periods, no side effects, pretty sure other pills and the ring lead to weight gain, and I had a breeze of an insertion because I explained the plot line of Jane the Virgin to the doctor and Nurse performing the procedure!
Seriously, everyone, I cannot recommend the Mirena coil enough! I got it maybe 3 months ago and I have a couple of friends who also have it and we all swear by it. Because the hormones are localised, it's safe to use even if you've had bad experiences with the pill, and it gets rid of your periods almost entirely. Getting it put in isn't pleasant, but it's a short sharp pain and maybe cramps for a day or two after it, but after that - nothing. If anyone has questions about Mirena, I'm happy to answer them, because I think it's a really great form of contraception and I think too many people don't know about it!
I was on dianette and yes, my skin was so good - cleared up my acne completely. Switched to cileste but tempted to go back as my skin has gone horrible again. Urgh, hormones and contraception!
I've got the Mirena and have no problems with it. Getting it put in really doesn't hurt much at all, it's just a little uncomfy and intrusive. I tried the copper coil before that because I wanted to avoid hormones - after terrible experiences with the implant and the patch - but unfortunately it made me bleed constantly for an ENTIRE YEAR! I would definitely recommend the Mirena, although there of course still can be negative side effects. A friend of mine found that her libido seriously decreased when she had it, she also had irregular bleeding so ended up getting it taken out.
I started hormonal birth control at 18 and this all happened when I was 25...I decided to go off the pill about a year ago because I hadn't been gettin' any for the last 2 years and it just seemed silly to be on the pill. Especially because it made me super emotional before and during each period. I also got headaches, which I think were linked up with the hormones somehow. ANYWAYS, I only lasted for 6 months before I begged my doctor to be put back on. When I stopped taking the pill I stopped getting periods at all (which had been very regular while on the pill). I got horrific acne for the first time in my life, I gained weight, but my boobs shrank. My body hair got thicker all over and grew faster and coarser. It was an excrutiating experience for those 6 months. And although I stopped getting moodswings and headaches, I became this weird numb shell of myself. I don't think I cried once during that whole time off hormones. Eventually, when I looked in the mirror I felt like I didn't know who was looking back at me. Maybe if I would have stayed off for a little longer it would have gotten better, but I was so miserable I couldn't do it. If there was an alternative that I could have without all the horrorfest of not having enough estrogen to have a regular period and remain normal I would consider going off again. But...ugh. It was the worst.
Just wanted to weigh in here since I know you talked breifly about the side effects on BC in general that I was one of the rare cases where the lesser common side effects happened. I had the Mirena for about a year and had to get it removed because it messed up my hormones and my body reacted very badly to it. To be honest it was a horrible experience overall since about 3 months in I started getting full body hives daily and swelling in my face as well. I went to a specialist for allergies and was told that there was no way that the Mirena would cause the allergic symptoms but when everything else had been tried (food eliminations, daily and nightly allergy pills, prednizone, epipen and inhalers) I decided on my own to have it removed and immediately had a reduction in symptoms. As the months without it in my body went on the hives slowly got less and less, fluctuating around the more hormonal parts of my cycle. Now a year later I am symptom free and live with so much less anxiety then when I had it. It took about 4 months for my period to become regular again as well. Sadly this was my fist BC experience as well so I'm kind of nervous to go on anything else. That's just my personal experience with the Mirena, definitely not everyone would have the same side effects. My best friend has had it for 2 years now with no issues and loves it! Her having had a baby already may have something to do with it working out well for her as she's carried a baby before. As far as the procedure to have it inserted goes, it doesn't feel too much different then a pap test but advice I read online told me to take 2 extra strength tylonel and advil as well. It definitely helped but it was painful afterwards during the week. Just wanted to give my personal 2 cents. :)
I love watching you two, it's like having a conversation with two of your best friends; so relatable! Dating girls is so much easier in terms of contraception hahhaha love me
the pain that comes along with having a myrena coil placed really varies from person to person. My doctor told me to take 2 advils in advance, and the only pain I felt was mostly caused by myself being tensed because I too was afraid that it would hurt. But it wasn't that bad at all :) "Some light spotting and a little bit of a tummy ache is the worst most women will feel" she told me. Don't be scared :)
Melanie have you thought about the copper coil? It is non hormonal so won't affect you the same way as the hormones did and its 99.5% effective. It means you don't have to worry about taking pills and can last up to 12 years!
Been on two different types of pill, hated both and had terrible side effects. Decided to use natural family planning instead (I'm married and having kids would be a nice thing for us ) and it's worked for almost 2 1/2 years! I think everyone should find something that works for them, and remember that it's okay to tell your doctor you want to try something new! :D
I'm excited to try "natural cycles" which is natural family planning - can't wait! I really don't wanna be on hormones again after my bad experiences xxx
I was on a combination pill for less than a year and I hated it. I gained 8kg (got some stretch marks too :( ), was moody, my complexion didn't improve and I had hard time taking the pill on time 😅 I came off it, got a progesterone implant instead and I couldn't be happier. No side effects whatsoever, have lighter periods (my doctor says they might disappear completely ✊🏻✊🏻) and it lasts for 3 years! P.S. Melanie you're amazing, I'm a taker 😜
I'm 16 and I started the pill when I was 13 and I've not stopped and I've used the same pill called cilest and I've had no problems and I'm happy, it was mainly for acne and it's stopped it and I pretty much have clear skin and have the occasional spot
I'm literally the same as Hannah since 16 I've been on progesterone only pill same brand and condoms, I can never rely on one thing, this video helped so much I'm not so scared of coming off in a few years
Dianette messed me up so so much as well! I was almost depressed because of it, it absolutely changed me as a person. I unfortunately have PCOS which means I have no choice but to be on the pill. Dianette was good for my skin, but oh my god did it mess up my moods! I'm now on Millinette which I think is amazing, but I'm definitely not as happy as I used to be. It sucks having no choice but to be on the pill - if it were my choice I definitely wouldn't!
I also just want to say if anyone is scared to come off Dianette because of their acne, I was in that same situation, but Millinette actually helped my acne so much, in fact if anything it made it even better than Dianette!
I have just come off the pill and I am now relying solely on condoms. I am soooo scared of getting pregnant. The side effects I had on the pill were horrific but I really don't want a baby at 21 haha. I have no idea what to do.
Hi! it isn't the safest method, but it definetly helps to protect you along with a barrier method like condoms. Other contraceptives without hormones include the coil and spermicide. The contraceptive ring is a hormonal method but the release of hormones is local, unlike the wider distribution of the pill. I am a med student ;)
there are so many options...the IUDs, the patch, the imllant thing that goes in the arm, in injection in the butt... the pill really messes with everything and can increase your risk of depression up to 25%!
Hey Melanie! this video could not have come at a better time for me, ive been on yasmin for several years now and have really been struggling with emotions, weight gain and low self-esteem...I need a break from it now I think. thanks for making this video ❤
ahhh I needed this video! Just had my first lady doctor appointment and got prescribed some hormonal contraceptives. I'm a bit nervous about starting it
I love being on my pill! I'm on the 91-day cycle combined pill. I will say that my experience trying you get contraception through the NHS is completely different than it is in the States (I'm an American student in London)
I was on a combination pill for one year, and I experienced sore breasts and occasional nausea. One thing I really loved about the pill was that my periods were very regular. They would always come on Tuesday of the fourth week, and I found that to be very comforting. I currently have the Mirena IUD, and I have had it for two and a half years. I have not had any bad experiences with it. After a few months of having it, my body got used to it, and I have regular periods. However, I would barely call it a period because it is very light spotting. I have a tilted uterus, and it took a lot longer for my gynecologist to insert it into my uterus, but it was definitely worth it.
I had the mirena coil for 3.5 years and was told its localised to your womb and the first year was amazing, the second year got ropey and then the third year was unbearable. My body just wasn't mine anymore as the hormones completely effected my skin with cystic acne, I was constantly bloated and although I wasn't getting a period I felt like I was on a constant one and also mirena dangerously effected my ph levels and immune system xx
MITTON IS BACK :) Share with us your own hormonal contraception experiences here in the comments...I find it fascinating how everyone experiences pills etc so differently! And hit LIKE if you enjoyed the video! xxx
Melanie Murphy like you
Melanie Murphy I love you
Melanie Murphy watching you guys has been helping me get through a lot of hard times lately. And let me tell you i do not recommend the Mirena Coil at all. It's not as painful to put in as you would think, but I've had it for 8 months now and it has given me depression and anxiety like no other contraception method that I've tried before. I am literally going on an appointment to take it off tomorrow so hopefully it'll all get better.
Melanie Murphy I'm on the combination pill and now I really want the progesterone only one! No period would be fab!
I am so sorry for your loss.
From a guy's perspective I still believe that we should wrap it up even though she is on the pill. Always be safe!
💯
I have recently started a channel and I talk about my disability in quite a frank way. I have watched your videos for ages, and think you talk about issues that are seen as taboo or embarrassing in such a wonderful and empowering way. I took inspiration from this honesty when creating my disability videos. I have a condition which means I can’t eat or drink, use a wheelchair and have heart issues. I also talk about books on my channel, as that is my absolute passion. Thank you so much for the inspiration and your bravery at talking about the real issues. I have really struggled over the past few months as I don’t really have many friends anymore. They have moved on with their lives away from me. UA-cam has been an amazing way to feel a part of something again.
On a second note - YOU ARE BOTH AUTHORS! I am so happy to say that I have Hannah’s book ready to read on my shelf and am SO READY for Melanie’s book to come out. I can’t wait to give my reviews on them and am so ridiculously happy that they exist. 😊 ❤
i love your videos hannah :)
You two are so great! It's amazing that you can talk about topics like sex and relationships in a healthy and natural way, especially for teens who NEED to know this stuff and don't learn about it in school. So thanks for making these vids. They are definitely appreciated! Lots of love, Rosa xx
Right?! Even my parents don't feel comfortable talking about these topics. I'm a teenager and i was so worried not understanding myself until I found their channels.
yeah, totally. these topics should be the opposite of taboo, nd young people should be educated in f. ex. how to have safe sex.
I read that 13% of U.S. teens have already had sex by the age of 15 and 70% by the age of 19. When this many teenagers have sex, it’s important they know HOW to do it and how to keep themselves protected from STDs and unwanted pregnancy. When teenagers don’t learn about sex at home or at school; where can they learn about it? What a lot of teenagers would do is to watch porn, and that gives them unrealistic expectations about body image and sex. Do you ever see the guy taking time to put on a condom in porn? No! Isn’t it better to teach young people how to have proper sex and have a natural relationship to it, than ignoring the fact that people in the age of 15-19 also have sex and making them deal with it alone, afraid to talk about it? I think that sex education is crucial important for teenagers’ safety and expectations in the future.
I really appreciate that i can learn all these knowledge from them but there are many young people out there aren't educated. They have to learn themselves and that can cause many serious problems. It would be way better if school or our parents can just be more open and teach us how to be safe instead of not allowing us to have sex.
Going on the pill was literally the worst experience of my life, it brought on severe depression, huge personality changes ( like constant PMS), weird body changes and incredible cramps that literally made me pass out more than once. I stayed on it for months hoping it would get better but it only got worse. After about nine months I went off it and immediately started to feel better, but it took about five years to get back to my normal self and some of the changes have never gone away.... I learned much later that there are several questions doctors should ask you before hand to figure out which type of pill ( or non hormonal option) would be best for your body, and the doc or who prescribed them to me didn't ask me any questions at all..... All birth control is not the same and does not work the same way on everyone. Please, if you're thinking of starting any sort of hormonal birth control do your research before hand and go to a doctor who actually helps you figure out which one to try, instead of just giving you the one they make money off of from the drug company....!
This may sound harsh, but to me there's not a single guy in the world I'd consider it would be worth going on the pill for. I adore my partner, however, my physical health is more important to me than another person's perceived less pleasurable experience. I only ever used condoms and never head one break nor any pregnancy scares. So even just from a pragmatic perspective I see no reason to put unnecessary hormones into my body. To each their own but how easily gynecologists prescribe the pill to growing young girls (I got recommended to go on the pill when I was 13 due to cramps despite not being sexually active for another 5 years) is honestly disgusting and disheartening. We still don't know the full effect the pill has on brain development, etc. It's so irresponsible.
I'm on the patch and have been for nearly 3 years, and I think it's so underrated! I hardly know anyone who is on it, but oh my is it easy to use (you just slap it on once a week) and it also still works if you're sick etc. I found that it also really improved my skin. I did have awful PMS to begin with, but that defo calmed down after about 6 months. Loved this video xx
Immy1995 agreed I get on really well with the patch but nobody I know is on it, I think nurses don't recommend it as it costs more but I recommend it to everyone 😄
Immy1995 yeah..i know a few people who have it. but my problem is a) its ugly and i hate it 😂 b) when you go to the beach etc theres a visable patch on your butt c) i know friends whove had it fall off d) it gets all dirty and nasty like a week in!
Immy1995 I LOVE the patch and yes I feel like so many people don't even know about it! You only have to change it once a week unlike taking a pill everyday!
Maria C It seems more risky though, like it can fall off, get dirty and be visible to others... Some people can handle taking a pill everyday and some can't so I'm glad there's the patch for those people!
Im on the patch its the only thing that i've found does not give me major side effects like mood swings. Alot of people have not even heard of the patch its *AMAZING*
Kind of but you dont even notice its there. You can stick it basically anywhere on your body its small and waterproof
Another Black Turks Life they can fall off and they get so dirty 😣 and they look so ugly... i wish i liked the idea of it but nope!
I love being on the pill! Before I started taking it, my period cramps were so painful I couldn't get out of bed. Also so much blood for 7 days straight. I was much moodier and just a mess. Now I feel like I can actually have a life while on my "period" and I'm not as moody and shitty. Sex is also nice because no condoms!
cceloful the pill isn't 100% effective so be careful
Totally agree I love been on the pill ! 😊
cceloful It's exactly the same for me👌🏻
it's the same for me
also.... condoms are the only things that protect againt STIs!
Also, dating a girl is fab because there's no need for birth control lmao
tbh that's a big reason I stopped going back on hormonal contraception and why I'm starting to use "Natural Cycles" (for just incase) because during the past two years it's been mostly ladies for me - well, more girls than boys anyway :) x
You should still protect yourself from sti's tho
So true.
I went on the pill three different times (and on 3 different versions of it) but each time I had to come off it because I got bad nausea and headaches. Last year I got the implant and honestly it's been AMAZING for me. I don't get any side effects and I barely have a period (if I do it's extremely light.) I know it doesn't work for everyone but I would say it's worth a try if the pill doesn't work for you and you're terrified of the idea of the coil!
ooh amazing, is that the implant in your arm?
Miranda Marvin oh my gosh I agree I have had the implant for 2 and a half years and it has helped my mood so much and I for the first time I have been able to lose weight. plus you dont have to remember to take anything for the 3 years it's in ❤❤❤
Melanie Murphy yes! Having it put in is so simple and doesn't hurt, your arm will just be a little bruised/tender afterwards. Xx
Georgia Greally it's so good isn't it!
OH i would love that, but in fucking Poland it costs like 210 pounds!! :/ I am on the pill tho, for like 4 years now, i have terrible mood swings, and practically NO sex drive, but what can you do ;/ im terrifed of the coil too. Help. hahaha
I'm so invested in watching contraception videos even though I'm a lesbian lol.
Elle Keener I relate.
Elle Keener omg same!
literally me
I love watching videos that don't pertain to me lol.. it gives you an insight into other people's worlds and it's really cool
i was scared of going on the pill bc i worried it would make my mental health problems worse. i was in good communication with my doctor and psych, so i went on it, and honestly it hasn't made a difference either way. all the mood and cycle effects i always experienced have stayed the same, and that's okay with me. my skin is better, my period is regulated, for now i prefer not to use condoms with my partner and i love that, and what i didn't expect is i feel very in control and empowered. i really feel my priority is my health and happiness, so i know if things change i'll reassess it, but so far it's been very positive for me. exciting!
thank you for this & all your insight, u legend women xxxxx
So glad that you guys are talking about the truths about the pill, I went on the pill and had some really bad side effects but all my friends seemed to not have any side effects at all so I thought it was just me! It’s so nice to know that other people have had similar experiences to me!
I LOVE listening your own experience because anytime I want to know more about it it's like reading a prescription instead helpful advice.
I love how you guys make it so fun to talk about sex it's like I'm just chillin' with you guys and just having a chat
I have had a coil for around 3 years now and absolutely love it! Currently in a long term relationship so just use that and have never had any problems at all. I've had both the coil that lessens your periods (either reduces the volume of blood lost or can stop periods all together). However mine is now just for contreception only. Getting it put in was a little scary and very uncomfortable but its over so quickly and after that neither you or your partner can feel it!
This video has helped me so much thank you Melanie! just switched my pill after 5 years due to the mood swings and decided whether to do the mirena coil myself. This vid is helping me come to a decision in relation to contraception so thank you so much! love how normal you make talking about sex!
So glad I found your channels. You are the only people i know feel comfortable talking about these topics. I have learned a lot and i just want to say thank you.
I think we need to be more open about sex. Not understanding ourselves can cause many serious problems.
I started the pill a few days ago and I've got to say that so far it's only been horrific. My periods have been all over the place for 7 years now and I finally had enough, went to the doctor and turns out I have PCOS. So yeah I started the pill last week but for some reason it's caused horrific heavy bleeding so far and I had to stop revising today as I had such debilitating cramps. I hope it gets better bc I'm not hopeful so far xxx
Thank you so much you guys for talking about this stuff! All my sex education comes from you i swear!
Melanie I never knew you had a misacarriage, im sorry you had to go through that. You are incredible to be so strong and sex positive!
Thank you so much for doing this video! Iv been off cerazette for over three months now and OMG the emotions came flooding in only now starting to balance out, but I'm feeling so much more like my old self, but I also came off my anxiety medication which just made me sleepy all the time! I'm in a long term relationship and thankfully my bf has rode the rollercoaster with me that is coming off the pill! I have no intensions of going back on the pill. 😊 💊
Hannah, I had an IUD put in a few months ago. You shouldn't be overly scared. I took ibuprofen about an hour before it was put in (my GP recommended it). It was very painful to get put in but the pain only happened twice for about two or three seconds. (I moaned lol.) The rest was only mildly uncomfortable. My gynaecologist asked me if I wanted to know what she was doing and she talked me through the whole process which really reassured me. I haven't had a period since, only some spotting in the first couple of months which is normal. Haven't noticed side-effects, but I didn't on the pill either. Really pleased, and that is me set for three years!
This is such an awesome video. I'm 26 and I've never been on the pill, but practically everyone I know has and they all have such different stories. It's so interesting to hear other people's perspectives on things!
I used to get the injections which stopped my periods straight away and then I got fed up of going to the doctors every 3 months so got the implant. I got told it was different so may not work straight away but it did, contraception seems to work very well for me as I got no side effects. I recently came off the implant because I'll be donating my eggs and having periods again is honestly horrible, the pain and the weight gain has upset me but it'll be worth it! Once I donate I'll be going back to the implant as I love it!
I was the very very rare statistic and got what's called pulmonary embolisms, blood clots on the lungs from taking the combined contraceptive pill. Just a word of warning that it's not impossible, although rare, just be aware if you get achey legs, back ache or chest pains. I should have noticed earlier, but the symptoms were very subtle - if I'd waited even a week I probably wouldn't be here (cliché but I'm very lucky to be alive). just be aware gals, it's very rare but yeah. thanks for these videos Mel and Hannah, you're both my favs xo
Hannah D same thing happened to me :/
Eimear Gildea Oh no :( Hope your recovery was ok!
I got the Mirena right before Christmas, and I *LOVE* it. I was on the pill for about 3-4 years before and noticed it was kinda killing my libido, so was not interested at all in taking it any more. I've had it for nearly 6 months now and it is one of the best decisions I've ever made. When I came off the pill, it opened my eyes to how much the hormones in it were affecting my mood and ability to handle certain situations, and with the localization of the hormone it makes it virtually unnoticable. Getting it put in is definitely not the best feeling, but only takes about 5-10 minutes from the time the dr comes in until when they leave. An added bonus is that I barely get periods anymore, and when I do it's only spotting that I need a little liner for :) However, if you aren't in a stable monogamous relationship it's not the best choice, as the dr's say it can make you more susceptible to infections if there are multiple partners. I sound a bit preachy and I know it's not for everyone, but in my opinion it's the best birth control out there! Lots of love from Canada xox.
I got a Mirena put in two weeks ago and I love it! Highly recommend, and the insertion was super quick and surprisingly painless.
Thank you for this discussion! I'm married and went off the pill for low libido. (The irony is not lost.) It's been two months and my libido Is back my skin is clear, and I honestly feel more like a woman than I ever have before. we are using condoms now and experimenting with non-hormonal methods like the sponge and diaphragms. Seems like everyone wants you to be on the pill... my obgyn wouldn't even discuss nonhormonal methods with me! She gets paid for prescribing them, of course.
Enjoying some vintage Melanie and Hannah content 😂 it’s funny to see how little you’ve changed but also like how much has happened since then, it feels so weird having seen Hannah’s hormone diaries series over the years like I know how everything will turn out and these versions of Hannah and Melanie have no clue (nor the Clue app, probably)
I'm on the copper coil (non-hormonal IUD) and to be honest, yes it was pretty painful getting it put in (more so than the marina would be as the marina is smaller) but the whole experience is over pretty quickly and the doctor and nurse I had were so lovely and held my hand and made sure I was as comfortable as I could be. My only issue with it was the increased painful and heavy periods as mine were pretty painful and heavy before that anyway but I believe with the marina you don't get those side effects since it's still hormonal. So I'd say if you want to try the marina then just go for it! Take a couple of ibuprofen half an hour to an hour beforehand, make sure you have someone to take you home and look after you for the rest of the day and it'll be over before you know it. I wouldn't ever go back to the implant or pill or anything else now. I'm really happy I braved getting the coil.
I was on the pill (also Cerazette because I have Factov V Leiden which increases risk of blood clots) for 5 years. I had a pretty good experience with it, but decided to switch to the Mirena coil last year and I LOVE it. Srsly I recommend it to all my friends. The insertion isn't exactly comfortable, but wasn't anywhere near as painful as I was expecting so I wouldn't let that put you off! Have a chat with your GP/clinic doctor if you're unsure or have any questions but I think it's so underrated
I 150% support your choice to stop taking the pill, I started my period when I was 16, but it wasn't until I was 19 that I started having regular periods. However that being said, my body would still occasionally go a good 2 or 3 months without a period. When I was on my period, I knew that I would experience extreme pains to the point where I would pass out and/or throw up, my pms would last 2 weeks and my ovulation pains were so bad as well! so I basically had 1 week of the cycle where I wasn't bloated, moody, in pain and all the other shite. I understand the benefits of not being on the pill, and honestly I'd rather not be on it, but for me, if I wasn't on it, I wouldn't be able to cope. I've only been on it for a year, and it has helped me so so much!
My Anxiety is the only contraception I need
I was just having a conversation with a friend over the misconception of the coil, Im a massive advocate for them after having the mirena for 2 and a half years and having just recently changed over to Jaydess ( non hormones to hormones) the jaydess is brilliant and my doctor recently changed to it herself as the dosage is equivalent to half a mini pill a week - so its dosage is extremely minimal! I changed over as a means to lighten my periods. It honestly is the best contraception for me. For both occasions I laughed after it was done because it was just so quick. The "pain" that people experience is merely 5 seconds of an intense cramp and then I was covered for 10 years with the Mirena and 3 years with Jaydess. Just wanting to dispel this idea that it is painful, when it could be such an amazing solution for so many people not having to worry about their daily pill routine.
I'd like to share my experience with the mirena coil (hormonal IUD):
I got the mirena coil in September 2012. the insertion was pretty painful but swift and I had a constant period for a couple of weeks. Then, my period stopped. No more cramps, no more hormonal craziness...I LOVE it! You can keep it in for 5 years and in my relationship (after both getting STI tests) we've just been relying on it and it's been perfect. Not looking forward to taking it out this Autumn thought! I'm happy to answer any questions by the way :) big hugs to you all.
fran rose I'm already on my second mirena coil and as far as I can remember, having it taken out wasn't painful for me. The insertion was way worse when I first got it.
The wonderful thing about being a woman is though that we tend to forget how painful things were. 😅
That's good to hear! I know right? If we didn't forget about excruciating pains, we'd never have more that one child haha! 😅
IUDs! First time I got an IUD, I noticed all the imperfections on the freeway. I was so pissed with every smallest bump. I also had to hide how much pain due to living with a parent. The pain is really bad, but only for a day. Get it done in the morning, take pain killers, wear a pad, and by evening it's better. Avoid pot holes and bumps on the way home! I think it's worth it though. One day of major pain for years of security. I did have issues one time with Paragard (copper IUD).
The copper is long-term, non-hormonal and I've been told it is recommended for women who already given birth (due to size). It was the first one I had because I wanted 8 whole years of protection. The periods are so bad - so bloody and crampy and that's the price you pay for no hormones. I trusted it and it shifted and made me so insecure about it. I had a doctor check and they noticed nothing. I started a new one because I knew something was wrong. I went onto Skyla and I LOVED it. Smaller doses of hormones compared to Mirena so you get your period but I had no side effects. I miss it! I'm on Mirena now and I get cramps when aroused - the same cramps I had when I was on Nuva Ring when I was 16. I'm going into my third month on it and it's lessened somewhat. I have the lightest period now - which is a good thing, but I do wish I had Skyla. I chose Mirena because living in the US, I was concerned with political power over contraceptives and I knew it would be more financially secure in 5 years. Also, the strings are rigid in the beginning and could slightly hurt your male partner, but over time they become soft. After 6 months, you can just check the strings monthly.
The Nuva Ring was interesting, but wouldn't try it again. I got cramps when I became aroused and I feel like that carried onto my current IUD. I didn't have this issue with Skyla. Anyway, you and your partner don't feel it because it goes in your pubic bone area and it's fine to take it out weekly and you can choose to skip periods. Also, if you have a safe living situations then you can place it in the fridge and have it last 6 months (rather than 3 months outside a fridge). I didn't like it because I was paranoid to leave it in more than 7 days and worried about forgetting. I also did not appreciate disposing of it. You had to keep the packaging to seal it back up and dispose of it anywhere. I do not think people are responsible to do that! Which means you are disposing of so much hormones in an unsanitary way!
I could never take the pill because I forget to take my daily allergy medicine. The patch is a big nope because I do not want something on my skin. The shot just freaks me out. The one in the arm creeps me out the most. I'd say I'm happy with an IUD.
I'm on the patch and it's been so good to me! Also, every nurse i've spoken to about it has really bigged it up and said they don't understand why more people aren't on it and that it's a great option for people who don't get along with other stuff!
I got the implant about 2 weeks ago and so far it's working really well for me! If you are already on the mini-pill/POP I would recommend it. I was told to expect bleeding for the first few months but because my body is already used to the hormones (I had been on the mini-pill for 1-2 years beforehand) I have experienced no changes so far, fingers crossed! And no periods! If you're considering it don't be nervous about getting it put in, the worst bit is the local aenesthetic which doesn't hurt, its more of a dull pain. Although around where it has been put in is still heavily bruised, although not sore! (My Dad thought it was a tattoo it's so dark!!) But when the bruising is gone hopefully I'll be protected for 3 whole years woo!
I've always been scared of the pill and anything with hormones, cause of what my mom and grandma went through. So I got the paragard IUD. It has definitely made my period worse but it's honestly SO worth it.
I've been using the Gynefix for the past 7 years and i'm loving it. It is basicslly a copper IUD but instead of the plasticframe it is a nylon thread. Plus it is suitalbe especially for women who have not given birth because of its small size (i got mine at 16). Before that i had 3 different pills in 2 years and all the sideeffect you could imagine.
I got the Implant quite a few months ago and theres not many good things said about it, so far im absolutely loving it iv had no bad symptoms and my bleeding is pretty much settled now. id really recommend giving it a go.
Talking about side effects, don't let the clots scare you! One of the medications I'm on can cause the entire top layer of your skin to detach. A painkiller I have to take sometimes (ironically for ovulation pain) can totally screw up your stomach and cause depression and anxiety. The pill is scary but as long as you keep getting your blood pressure checked and are aware of the warning signs, you'll be fine!
(Also I've been on dianette for almost four years?? But because my hirsutism has gotten worse due to my body building up a tolerance to my other medication and stress, so I'm praying my doctor doesn't decide to go "you need to come off this now" because it does help somewhat)
Some friends and I have experienced both the hormonal coil AND the copper coil... Generally VERY painful the first day, and then you don't have to think about it for YEARS.
Seriously. A true revelation for all of us, so comfortable, it's just not recommended for people who already have very painful periods (because it tends to be a bit more painful the first day) and with th copper coil, it's not for those who have very bloody periods, tends to amplify them a bit. I've noticed it reduces with time, though.
But guys, really. COIL = FREEDOM
I had my Skyla IUD put in 4 months ago, and it was the BEST decision I've ever made! Lower hormones, more reliable, and virtually NO side affects (for myself at least). I hate the pill too! Explore all your options ladies until you find what's right for your body :)
Can't wait to order your book, Melanie! I was on the pill for about a year before getting an IUD--honestly, I loved both, but my fave thing about the IUD is that I don't get a period at all, and it prevents pregnancy for 5-7 years, or until you decide to take it out
The honesty is so appreciated, admire you ladies x
I'm 17 and I'm getting the Mirena put in during my surgery to help combat my endometriosis, so I'm so glad you guys said positive things about it since I don't really have any other options. I've been on the pill for 4 years and have been through 4 different ones, I changed because I kept getting my actual period (not spotting). I'm on a new one now but it hasn't worked at all. I've been getting my period every 10 days (which is how my period is off the pill), my iron is garbage, and my emotions are crazy. I never had any symptoms with the other pills so this is really new and crappy. Also I've been getting terrible "period" pains when I'm not even on my period? Its happened for years but its been getting way worse.
Must admit, I am just like Melanie with contraception - depending on whether or not I was in a relationship would depend on whether I would take an oral contraceptive (i.e. the pill) or not! I am definitely considering so many new things thanks to The Hormone Diaries and honest videos such as this one.
Watching you guys has been helping me get through a lot of hard times lately. And let me tell you i do not recommend the Mirena Coil at all. It's not as painful to put in as you would think, but I've had it for 8 months now and it has given me depression and anxiety like no other contraception method that I've tried before. I am literally going on an appointment to take it off tomorrow so hopefully it'll all get better.
what Hannah was saying about the hormones being localised from the coil: same thing is true for the NuvaRing and it is much cheaper and you can take it out yourself if it's not suiting you!
I feel as though not many people know about it, but I couldn't recommend it enough. I tried 3 different brands of the pill, all of which gave me awful side-effects but the ring has been a dream!
I would HIGHLY recommend the Mirena. Yes, it was painful to get put in, but the intense pain (I thought I might pass out) only lasted for about 30 seconds. Afterwards, there was pretty severe cramping that kept me in bed for the next 48 hours because I didn't want to take pain killers. Afterwards, I'd have probably 2-3 strong cramps a day for the next 4 weeks, and then my cramps subsided to the point where I'll get a cramp or two every couple weeks now. But I used to get cramps daily without the Mirena so this was a huge improvement for me. Additionally, after about 2 and a half months of constant spotting, my period and the spotting stopped completely. I got mine in last August and I wish I had done it sooner. I didn't have any side effects that I can trace specifically to Mirena, in fact, my skin cleared up a lot because of the constant hormone dosage. I'm definetly going to get a second one put in once this one is taken out because it gives me such security, and other than the occasional mood swings I don't experience any symptoms of PMS.
I'm on the progestin only pill and I flipping love it: stable moods, no periods (haven't had one since July when I went on it) and little to no weight gain! My mood being more stable has been my favourite thing about it (i.e. stable for me, I have schizoaffective, so my moods are problematic, but I am in general calmer!)
honestly thank you for this video it's come at the perfect time for me!
Basically, I'm 14 and in the past 6 months i've had lots of issues with periods and pain, with having scans and tests i've learnt it is most likely endometriosis, and so i have to have a full operation which is both the way that diagnoses it and can be used to remove any presents cysts for example. In the mean time i've been put on the pill, first i tried Levest (a combined pill) but that caused me a whole lot of nausea and i'm currently, as Hannah said she took for those 7 years, on Cerazette. So far on cerazette i've had far less pain and no nausea, but have been having headaches and a lot more acne. I'm also very sensitive to side effects of pills and so during my operation (under full anaesthetic) I have been offered to have the Mirena coil put in (which I feel is a lot better way to put it in as i'll be knocked tf out) as progesterone is the hormone that helps with things such as endometriosis.
This was a bit longer then expected sorry but I do appreciate these videos a lot, especially as i am 14 it isn't really a common thing I can talk to people about and these videos are very helpful x
I've started taking a pill two days ago and this video helped me a lot cause there was still a lot of things I didn't know, thanks for talking about all those important things!💖
I'm on Aubra and I'm lucky that I don't have lots of side effects. Thank God. The pill is actually very good for me. It's good that you guys are talking about that.
Dianette worked wonders for me for acne when I was a teen and also caused no problems for me like comments here but any way it is no longer available in Ireland to be prescribed as contraception (seems for a several reasons) so they don't really give it out anymore! I have since been on Yasmin the last couple of years and zero side effects or issues for me. I've tried about ten different pills over the last ten years and some had horrendous side effects and some none. Don't just try one type guys and give up! Keep trying as you will eventually find one that agrees with your body 😊
Last year because of the insurance I had at the time I had to switch birth control pills. The pill they gave me was the first one I had ever had. just some generic brand. While I was on this pill I noticed I had terrible cramps and pms. My skin would break out up to two weeks before my period and I'd even start cramping a few days before. The bleeding was heavier too. I hated it. So about two months ago I asked my doctor to switch me back to the second pill I'd been on. I hadn't realized until the switch to the other pill just how much I had liked the one I was now requesting. My pms has been almost unnoticeable, the cramps are gentler, the bleeding is way lighter and I don't need to eat EVERYTHING in the house. It's good to take notice of these things so you know what agrees with your body. I'm so glad I switched back.
I also want to mention that I started taking the pill when I was about sixteen (almost ten years ago) in order to regulate my period and help with my PCOS. I'm not having sex. I just want my body to work as it should.
I was on Dianette for a few years and it was so good to me!! I'm so thankful for it for because it cleared up my extremely heavy periods and helped my PCOS. It's crazy how different pills can affect different people.
Also Hannah, I highly encourage you to look more thoroughly into the Mirena coil. They say it's localized, but in your body everything is connected to everything else. Your blood flows through your entire body. Mirena also has side effects that are hormonally related as well.
This is amazing timing! I have been having a lot of mood swings and random periods with my contraceptive pill recently so it's great to hear your experiences and advice. Love these videos
I've been on a pill called Lolo for 2 years now and it's only been great for me. It's kind of a strange pill with estrogen and progestin for 24 days, estrogen only for 2 days, and 2 days of sugar pill. It's meant to shorten (to 4 days max) or in some cases like mine eliminate your period. I'm in a relationship and for the first 2 years we relied on only condoms but I wanted "double protection". Also, I'm anemic and I was having very heavy 7 day long periods so it was getting to a point where I would be fainting while on my period or unable to get out of bed. Now I haven't had a period for 2 years and it's amazing! I luckily have not experienced any negative side effects from it. I am starting to get a bit lazy when it comes to condoms because of being on the pill and being in a relationship, so thank you for the reminder not to rely on it. So sorry you had to go through such a difficult experience Melanie
The Mirena has mostly been great for me. The insertion was a breeze, I have almost no period, no cramping BUT it has destroyed my skin. I had finally gotten to clear skin that I was super happy about and then I got the Mirena and now I have terrible acne on my back and cystic bumps on my cheeks and chin.
The copper coil is another non-hormonal option. Its great for those that have terrible mood changes with the hormonal contraceptives. It's not a great option for those with a heavy/painful period already. And the insertion of the mirena/copper coil is not that traumatic. Get the doctor to prescribe you something to relax you. Its all over in 5 minutes. Fair warning: you may have more severe cramps for the first 3 periods after. I couldn't deal with the changes to my mood and I've since got the copper coil, never going back, its been amazing.
Melanie, I'd get the leg bruises checked just in case! I have a blood disorder (Factor V Leiden) which increases my chances of having blood clots, and my chances of having blood clots are extremely higher if I use hormone based contraception. The problem is that people don't get checked for blood disorders prior to being put onto the pill or other hormonal contraceptives cause many women to develop blood clots, DVTs and PEs at an abnormally young age. So if you're worried about a possible blood clot, get it checked now for clots and/or a blood disorder because you don't want to put any strain on your valves and do permanent damage!!
I've been on the same pill for 3 years, and honestly I feel like I have no decent pill stories. I really like my pill, it doesn't cause me any problems with my skin (cleared up some skin issues on my back actually). I had no significant weight gain or loss. It has assisted my headaches a little as well. I may have had some mood changes at the start, but now I pretty much cry easier at sad dog videos and that's about it! I'm in a long term relationship where we are both 'clean' and we use a combination of the pill/condoms and the pull out method. In cases where I'm sick we use condoms every time for up to a week afterwards.
The same as Hannah! :) Her experience was great on it, she only noted changes coming off of it
nizo1995 Can I ask what pill you’re on? I’m looking to try one
i got the mirena iud in april, it was actually nowhere near as painful as i was expecting, i just felt a weird pressure and then i had period pain like cramps for a few hours after. i had a very light period for about 2 weeks and then i haven't had any bleeding since. i'd say the pain is worth it to not have to think about contraception for 5 years!
I highly recommend the Mirena. It honestly didn't hurt that much and the insertion is super quick anyways.
Having previously suffered bad side effects from the combined pill (Microlite), using a method of contraception that is 99.95% effective but also has very little hormonal side effects is great. I've had one for a year and a half now.
MY FAVE GALS ❤️❤️❤️
Being on the pill has cleared up my acne so much!! I used to get very extreme acne but after a year and a bit of being on the pill ive noticed such a huge difference, im definitely glad i started taking it👌^_^
I've been on several different types of pill, the bar, the injection and now I have the Merina IUD. I've had problematic periods since I was 16 so I've always needed some sort of hormones to control the symptoms. I was lucky that I had health insurance which covered me going into the hospital and being put under for the insertion of the IUD. I now have no periods and it's great. Like Hannah said, the hormones only act locally and only 1% of the hormones enter the bloodstream. I'm also in a long term relationship so it's great for me.
Loved this video ❤ I'm on dianette at the moment after taking roaccutane and people keep saying I should come off it for risk of blood clot and saying it's not good or natural, but it is keeping the acne away and it has made things so much more manageable with cramps and timing and regularity. This video helped me realise it's not weird to be on it at my age or for my reasons so thanks Mel x💚
Looking absolutely beautiful here, as always sis!🙌🏼❤️ xxx
aww thank you sis! LOVE YOU xxx
I came off the pill over a year ago after being on it for over 6 years. I was taking "Daphne" which is a generic pill for Diane 35.
I was put on it because of my acne, my very irregular cycles and the terrible abdominal pain, headache and back pain I used to get when I was on my period. My gynaecologist also had my blood tested and found out that my levels of "male hormones" where too high. The pill did help with all that but after 5-6 years, I realised I was different. I felt extremely down, I used to tell my boyfriend that my life was useless and meaning it. On top of that, my sex drive was completely gone, to a point where I wouldn't even think about sex for weeks.
I started watching UA-cam videos, reading articles, trying to figure out what was wrong with me. I considered many causes to all these things until I talked to a friend of mine who had gone off the pill and I realised that, maybe it was what was causing all these symptoms.
I also did some further research on my pill specifically and found out that not only does it contain estrogen+progesterone but also something called cyproterone acetate which is an antiandrogen and progestogen, which is a substance that blocks male hormones (I suffer from hormonal imbalance yay, which explains my irregular cycles and acne) and therefore helped A LOT with my acne, it basically got rid of it altogether. However, it is also one of the components of the drug that is used to chemically "castrate" pedophiles. Besides, I found out that combined contraceptives are group 1 carcinogens, things for which scientists have enough evidence to say that it causes cancer in humans (here is the WHO's list of carcinogenic substances, combined contraceptives are on p.6 monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/Table4.pdf ). I don't mean to scare anyone here, I just think it's important to know and be educated on what you are putting in your body :)
Yes, my acne came back. It's better now, but it's a healing process, it's not going to be gone in a few days (although I wish it could). If this is happening to you (if you're still reading this haha), I know how it feels but give yourself and your body time to heal :) My cycles are not really irregular anymore, only quite long (+/- 60 days). But the food I eat now is different as well, and I think this plays a big role especially in my acne. The pill did temporarily help, but all it did was hide the symptoms. Oh and I gained 4 kilos in a couple of days when I was first put on it.
If you're still reading this, I'm sorry for the novel :D I hope it helped and... I really highly recommend reading the book called "Taking charge of your fertility", it is full of really useful and important information. Understanding how your body works is so important and empowering. I learned a lot by reading it, although I have always been interested in and had read a lot on that subject :) Also, Victoria from Femmehead makes a lot of great videos on all types of contraception, the menstrual cycle etc. When I first found her channel, I binge watched all her videos :D
PS: you're beautiful, all of you. Love yourself and your body ♥
i just got the Kyleena IUD put in! it lasts as long as the Mirena (5 years) but is smaller (meant for women who have never been pregnant or given birth) and has a much lower dose of hormones. the insertion did hurt, and i was woozy for quite a while after, but that’s bc i wasn’t prepared. if you plan on getting an IUD put in, make sure to eat beforehand (your blood pressure will drop) and to take ibuprofen.
also, my IUD was 100% free through Planned Parenthood :) and they DONT even accept my insurance. i applied for their Family Planning Benifit Program and got my IUD in the same day.
I'm having Detrinelle from 4 years and i must say it has no side effects and it removed all of my acne when i was sixteen so my experience with hormonal contraception is really good.
kisses from Madrid btw :)
Using the mirena coil (IUD) and love it. No periods, no side effects, pretty sure other pills and the ring lead to weight gain, and I had a breeze of an insertion because I explained the plot line of Jane the Virgin to the doctor and Nurse performing the procedure!
Seriously, everyone, I cannot recommend the Mirena coil enough! I got it maybe 3 months ago and I have a couple of friends who also have it and we all swear by it. Because the hormones are localised, it's safe to use even if you've had bad experiences with the pill, and it gets rid of your periods almost entirely. Getting it put in isn't pleasant, but it's a short sharp pain and maybe cramps for a day or two after it, but after that - nothing.
If anyone has questions about Mirena, I'm happy to answer them, because I think it's a really great form of contraception and I think too many people don't know about it!
I was on dianette and yes, my skin was so good - cleared up my acne completely. Switched to cileste but tempted to go back as my skin has gone horrible again. Urgh, hormones and contraception!
I loooooove the outfit you're wearing Mel! It's so pretty and it suits you soooo well
I've got the Mirena and have no problems with it. Getting it put in really doesn't hurt much at all, it's just a little uncomfy and intrusive. I tried the copper coil before that because I wanted to avoid hormones - after terrible experiences with the implant and the patch - but unfortunately it made me bleed constantly for an ENTIRE YEAR! I would definitely recommend the Mirena, although there of course still can be negative side effects. A friend of mine found that her libido seriously decreased when she had it, she also had irregular bleeding so ended up getting it taken out.
I started hormonal birth control at 18 and this all happened when I was 25...I decided to go off the pill about a year ago because I hadn't been gettin' any for the last 2 years and it just seemed silly to be on the pill. Especially because it made me super emotional before and during each period. I also got headaches, which I think were linked up with the hormones somehow. ANYWAYS, I only lasted for 6 months before I begged my doctor to be put back on. When I stopped taking the pill I stopped getting periods at all (which had been very regular while on the pill). I got horrific acne for the first time in my life, I gained weight, but my boobs shrank. My body hair got thicker all over and grew faster and coarser. It was an excrutiating experience for those 6 months. And although I stopped getting moodswings and headaches, I became this weird numb shell of myself. I don't think I cried once during that whole time off hormones. Eventually, when I looked in the mirror I felt like I didn't know who was looking back at me. Maybe if I would have stayed off for a little longer it would have gotten better, but I was so miserable I couldn't do it. If there was an alternative that I could have without all the horrorfest of not having enough estrogen to have a regular period and remain normal I would consider going off again. But...ugh. It was the worst.
Just wanted to weigh in here since I know you talked breifly about the side effects on BC in general that I was one of the rare cases where the lesser common side effects happened. I had the Mirena for about a year and had to get it removed because it messed up my hormones and my body reacted very badly to it. To be honest it was a horrible experience overall since about 3 months in I started getting full body hives daily and swelling in my face as well. I went to a specialist for allergies and was told that there was no way that the Mirena would cause the allergic symptoms but when everything else had been tried (food eliminations, daily and nightly allergy pills, prednizone, epipen and inhalers) I decided on my own to have it removed and immediately had a reduction in symptoms. As the months without it in my body went on the hives slowly got less and less, fluctuating around the more hormonal parts of my cycle. Now a year later I am symptom free and live with so much less anxiety then when I had it. It took about 4 months for my period to become regular again as well. Sadly this was my fist BC experience as well so I'm kind of nervous to go on anything else.
That's just my personal experience with the Mirena, definitely not everyone would have the same side effects. My best friend has had it for 2 years now with no issues and loves it! Her having had a baby already may have something to do with it working out well for her as she's carried a baby before.
As far as the procedure to have it inserted goes, it doesn't feel too much different then a pap test but advice I read online told me to take 2 extra strength tylonel and advil as well. It definitely helped but it was painful afterwards during the week.
Just wanted to give my personal 2 cents. :)
I love watching you two, it's like having a conversation with two of your best friends; so relatable! Dating girls is so much easier in terms of contraception hahhaha love me
the pain that comes along with having a myrena coil placed really varies from person to person. My doctor told me to take 2 advils in advance, and the only pain I felt was mostly caused by myself being tensed because I too was afraid that it would hurt. But it wasn't that bad at all :) "Some light spotting and a little bit of a tummy ache is the worst most women will feel" she told me. Don't be scared :)
Melanie have you thought about the copper coil? It is non hormonal so won't affect you the same way as the hormones did and its 99.5% effective. It means you don't have to worry about taking pills and can last up to 12 years!
Been on two different types of pill, hated both and had terrible side effects. Decided to use natural family planning instead (I'm married and having kids would be a nice thing for us ) and it's worked for almost 2 1/2 years! I think everyone should find something that works for them, and remember that it's okay to tell your doctor you want to try something new! :D
I'm excited to try "natural cycles" which is natural family planning - can't wait! I really don't wanna be on hormones again after my bad experiences xxx
I was on a combination pill for less than a year and I hated it. I gained 8kg (got some stretch marks too :( ), was moody, my complexion didn't improve and I had hard time taking the pill on time 😅 I came off it, got a progesterone implant instead and I couldn't be happier. No side effects whatsoever, have lighter periods (my doctor says they might disappear completely ✊🏻✊🏻) and it lasts for 3 years!
P.S. Melanie you're amazing, I'm a taker 😜
I'm 16 and I started the pill when I was 13 and I've not stopped and I've used the same pill called cilest and I've had no problems and I'm happy, it was mainly for acne and it's stopped it and I pretty much have clear skin and have the occasional spot
The best contraception method is.......................
DATE A GIRL
This is such a good and important video to make! Yessss girls!
I'm literally the same as Hannah since 16 I've been on progesterone only pill same brand and condoms, I can never rely on one thing, this video helped so much I'm not so scared of coming off in a few years
Dianette messed me up so so much as well! I was almost depressed because of it, it absolutely changed me as a person. I unfortunately have PCOS which means I have no choice but to be on the pill. Dianette was good for my skin, but oh my god did it mess up my moods! I'm now on Millinette which I think is amazing, but I'm definitely not as happy as I used to be. It sucks having no choice but to be on the pill - if it were my choice I definitely wouldn't!
I also just want to say if anyone is scared to come off Dianette because of their acne, I was in that same situation, but Millinette actually helped my acne so much, in fact if anything it made it even better than Dianette!
I have just come off the pill and I am now relying solely on condoms. I am soooo scared of getting pregnant. The side effects I had on the pill were horrific but I really don't want a baby at 21 haha. I have no idea what to do.
jen xo yeah i feel you. i just dont know how safe working with your natural cycle is
I love my implant :)
Hi! it isn't the safest method, but it definetly helps to protect you along with a barrier method like condoms. Other contraceptives without hormones include the coil and spermicide. The contraceptive ring is a hormonal method but the release of hormones is local, unlike the wider distribution of the pill.
I am a med student ;)
The Copper IUD is amazing- no hormones and lasts for years at a time....!
there are so many options...the IUDs, the patch, the imllant thing that goes in the arm, in injection in the butt... the pill really messes with everything and can increase your risk of depression up to 25%!
Hey Melanie! this video could not have come at a better time for me, ive been on yasmin for several years now and have really been struggling with emotions, weight gain and low self-esteem...I need a break from it now I think. thanks for making this video ❤
ahhh I needed this video! Just had my first lady doctor appointment and got prescribed some hormonal contraceptives. I'm a bit nervous about starting it
I love being on my pill! I'm on the 91-day cycle combined pill. I will say that my experience trying you get contraception through the NHS is completely different than it is in the States (I'm an American student in London)
I started using the pill for my cramps, cause I used to go to the hospital every month. I can't imagine my life now without it
I was on a combination pill for one year, and I experienced sore breasts and occasional nausea. One thing I really loved about the pill was that my periods were very regular. They would always come on Tuesday of the fourth week, and I found that to be very comforting. I currently have the Mirena IUD, and I have had it for two and a half years. I have not had any bad experiences with it. After a few months of having it, my body got used to it, and I have regular periods. However, I would barely call it a period because it is very light spotting. I have a tilted uterus, and it took a lot longer for my gynecologist to insert it into my uterus, but it was definitely worth it.
I had the mirena coil for 3.5 years and was told its localised to your womb and the first year was amazing, the second year got ropey and then the third year was unbearable. My body just wasn't mine anymore as the hormones completely effected my skin with cystic acne, I was constantly bloated and although I wasn't getting a period I felt like I was on a constant one and also mirena dangerously effected my ph levels and immune system xx
Ahhhh love this topic!!! It's on my to do list ❤️
I'd love to see a video by you on this love! xxx