Question:
Anyone using Alesse?

Hi there. My Gyn recently prescribed Alesse (a lose estrogen pill) for painful periods and PMS (which have gotten worse since surgery) Anyone taking this? I have tried hard to steer away from any pills, hormones, etc. due to side effects, but I can't stand the PMS and pain any longer. Looking for input for anyone with experience with this drug. Thanks! Renee    — Renee D. (posted on February 24, 2003)

February 24, 2003
Any monophasic (i.e., the same dose of hormone throughout the month) birth control pill will help with PMS. It helps keep your hormone levels constant over the course of the month. I was on Alesse too, but stopped because it gave me continuous breakthrough bleeding. I have since switched to Cyclen (since becoming post-op), but I'm still experiencing the breakthrough bleeding, and think I need a stonrger pill. But that's just me... Alesse is a very low dose pill, and pretty safe. Often, when breakthrough bleeding occurs, it just means you need a stronger pill - you may have no problems with it though. Good luck! Patricia (2 mos post-op, down 40#).
   — Patricia E.

February 24, 2003
I am on this birth control pill for my heavy periods. I have been on it for a year and a half, and have had no problems. I believe it has also helped my hormones to be more mellow since I am 48 and peri-menopausual.
   — imaginec

February 27, 2003
I have been on Alesse for about 4 years and they have worked really well for me, I have terrible cramps and since I have been taking them they are better. I thought that after surgery you could not take birth control pills because they did not absorb.
   — real S.