2 replies to this topic

[leesett]

I’m going to start taking birth control this Sunday for my moderate acne and I’m terrified. I have an appointment in a few hours and I have no idea what birth control to request. I figured she would probably give me Ortho-Tri Cyclen, but the reviews are so horrible. Mircette had a much better review but after researching birth controls Ortho-tri cyclen seems to be the one most doctors prescribe for acne and Mircette list of side effects include acne. I don’t know what to do. I have a wedding I’m going to be participating in, in March and I’m scared that I’m going to have a terrible reaction. What should I do? I’ll let you all decide my fate. Ortho? Or Mircette? Please help.

[suzy_rondelle]

in my experiences, low dose estrogen pills made my acne worse. which is what mircette is, i believe. i had success with a pill called zovia, which has 35 mcg estrogen.


also express your concerns about progestins that are androgenic. some are better for acne than others.

also, you might try monophasic ortho cyclen instead of OTC if you suspect your acne is hormonal, because this will keep your hormones at a more constant level.

[peachy_D225]

whichever you end up with, i would definitely recommend asking for an antibiotic (i like minocycline). When starting ANY bcp, you will likely develop an initial breakout, and an antibiotic can help control it (especially since you have an upcoming event to attend). Good luck!

PS-- i have been using Apri (generic desogen) for a few years now with good results. It is a monophasic pill. I also use spironolactone.

This website may help you determine the androgencity of various pills: http://www.wdxcyber.com/ncontr13.htm

Keep us posted on what you ended up getting at your appt!