Dianette Contraceptive Pill

I was on Dianette for nearly three years, although when I initially went to the doctors to get it they told me that they would not prescribe it for more than two years due to the risk of blood clots and liver damage.

It cleared my spots up like magic and got rid of general facial blemishes, which were okay for a teenager, but I had got a bit bored of them at 22! Using Dianette made my periods lighter and less painful.

Only side effects for me was I gained fat around my middle, which meant saying goodbye to my previously flat stomach. No matter how hard I exercised, I didn't seem to be able to get rid of this. Also, towards the end of my time taking this pill, I became increasingly unable to control my emotions and got upset very easily. No spots - people commented on my flawless skin
No decrease in sex drive
No babies
Regular & lighter periods
No period pains
Small pill to swallow Weight gain on my stomach
As time progressed, emotional mood swings I'm unsure if doctors will still prescribe this pill, but it is a good choice if you are aware of the risks and prepared to take them. Best for short periods to clear up spots before moving on to another type of contraceptive pill.

avoid this pill!
i've been on dianette for over 2years, i started taking it when i was 17, and after the first 10months i became a completely different person. After being on it for over 2years i don't even know who i am anymore. I have no self confidence due to weight gain, i am constantly low and angry at everything, i get irrational thoughts and paranoia to the max, i cry all the time. It's wrecking my relationship with my boyfriend..i'm constantly scared he's going to leave me over the stupidest of things, i feel sad to think he probably wishes i could go back to being the girl he first met .
The worst thing about dianette is it gets progressively worse, the side effects just increase until you become an emotional wreck. i couldn't work out for ages why i'd turned into such a horrible person,which made me even more down, but i definetly know it's down to dianette now.
I've got my dr's app booked, and next tuesday i'm coming off it! clears spots up, but expect aload just before your period! Gives you severe depression if you're on it for more than 10months
paranoia
constant crying
feeling low
extreme mood swings
weight gain
anger (blood boiling)
anything annoys you

it's not worth taking, unless you have SEVERE acne in which case don't stay on it long.

Since I was 17, I have tried a few different pills, but most of the time hae been on Microgynon. However, I stopped taking this and switched to Dianette in the hope it would clear up the small amount of Rosacea I had around my nose. The good news was it cleared up my Rosacea completely however, I ended up with an even worse problem! - it caused horrible spots, especially on my chin. I constantly had white pimples under the skin, which then came out into big red spots that never cleared up. I have gone back to the doctor and he has now prescribed me with Yasmin to see if that improves the situation. I also noticed terrible bloating during my period (more than normal) and I became really emotional and felt quite low at times... something I haven't experienced before. I also had an increasing number of headaches, which may have been due to Dianette. Cleared up my Rosacea completely Acne on my chin which I never suffered from before
Felt more bloated than usual
Felt tearful and emotional for no reason It wasn't for me. The bad points far outweighed the good. I hope Yasmin is better for me!

I've been on dianette on and off for about 10 years - it cleared up my skin completely, I went onto another pill and my skin got worse again, so I've now been back on dianette ever since and my skin's been great. Also not had a period pain in all this time. I'm increasingly concerned about loss of libido though, no idea if this is caused by dianette though looks like it might be, am coming off now to see how I get on withouth it. Great for skin. Leads to short, pain free periods. No noticeable side affects other than below. Loss of libido. Highly recommended for treating acne.

I've had fairly bad skin (not terrible acne but annoying spots on my chin and back) for most of my adult life, and have always suffered from heavey, painful periods as well as facial hair growth. I was put on Dianette three weeks ago by my doctor, and I had never previously heard of it.
So far, I haven't noticed an improvement in my skin, but I don't expect to for at least two months. My boobs are definitely more tender and I have been slightly more moody than normal - but I've also been under a lot of stress in work, so that doesn't help.
My main cause of worry is that since I started taking the pill, I've had a period. I've been bleeding for the last three weeks! At first it was very light, but in the past three days it's been heavier. I'm due to stop for my seven days in two days time, so lord knows what's going to happen then. I started taking the pill on the first day of my period, as instructed. Is this normal? To be honest, I'm not massively fussed, as I figure it's just my body adjusting to the pill (I've never been on a contraceptive pill before).
I was warned about the weight gain, and I have been hungrier, but I just watch what I eat and haven't gain a pound.

None yet, but I remain hopeful Tender boobs
Slightly moody
Lots of bleeding so far I'm in wait-and-see mode, but am a little worried about the bleeding...

I've been on dianette twice, the first time when I was 24 to clear up my acne; my skin improved dramatically and I took dianette for almost 4 years but was taken off it by my doctor who warned me of the long term side effects (namely liver damage); unfortunately my skin became progressively worse and I suffered from extremely painful boil type spots.

Consequently I managed to persuade my doc to put me back on it, and I've been taking it for almost a year (I'm now 32). It took about 4 months for my skin to improve and my complexion is now spot free (though scarred from previous spots) and I do suffer with quite bad headches during my 7 day break, but my periods are very light and my mood is good most of the time, though I do have bouts of low moods every 3 months and have felt more emotional since being back on dianette. I have also gained a few pounds but a small price to pay for having acne free skin!

I have only 1 pack left and my doc says I have to come off it again! Getting seriously worried that my acne's gonna return with avangence! -acne free skin
-light periods -headaches
-occasional low moods
-more emotional
For me personally, though I appreciate that everyone is different I think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages enormously as I suffered quite alot both physically (my acne gets so painful) and emotionally (felt ugly)due to my bad skin.

I came on here to read reviews on microgynon, but the reviews were a put off, so i reconsidered Dianette, which i'd first been prescribed when i was about 17 with bad skin. I dont feel i can write a great review coz i was never good at remembering to take it, i'd stop n start. But i do think it helped with my skin. Other than that i wouldn't like to comment.
but i did want to share this which i found elsewhere:

A contraceptive commonly used to treat acne is being investigated by British authorities for possibly causing depression.
Dianette came under study when more than 100 women said they suffered depression after the drug was prescribed for them, The Times of London reported Monday.

Britain's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority started its investigation after the charity complaints were reported.

The drug, an effective contraceptive, is also licensed in England as a hormone treatment for severe acne. However, doctors have advised the drug should not be prescribed solely for use as a contraceptive because of a higher risk of blood clots than other combination pills, The Times said.

Women who take it are supposed to stop within three to four months of their skin problems becoming resolved.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International Reviews are much better than some others i've looked into but long term, i wouldn't. Even my doctor back in the day was reluctant to subscribe it after a couple of months, and encouraged me to take long breaks between taking.

I was on Dianette and Yasmin Dianette for 7 months and Yasmin 2, I orginally went on both for my periods. I never have suffered from acne, until i started these pills. I broke out heaps on Yasmin so i went back to the doctor. She put me on Dianette and convinced me this wont give me acne like yasmin had triggered off! Unfortunenatly Dianette did nothing although the spots cleared up they return again again in clusters! And so now im starting Valette...From having nearly perfect blemish free skin to constant pimples ...these pills really didnt help my situation Periods regular
Mild pain only the first day. acne very bad everybody is different

Dianette is the first ever contraceptive pill I have had and I wanted to use it for my skin ( mild - gets worse every now and then acne) as well as a contraceptive so decided it's a good one to start off on and then stop once acne clears ups. After reading the reviews about contraceptive pills on the net I almost didn't take them and seriously thought of using non-hormonal contraceptive methods as the reviews are at times awful and I didnt want to end up like women stating ' i vomited instantly' or ' i cried all week' or 'i gained SO MUCH weight in just a month'....all i would like to say to someone thinking about starting the pill in particular Dianette is to give it a go. DO NOT GET PUT OFF by these negative reviews...for me personally although i HAVE had a few side effects they have DEFINITELY NOT been so bad as some people state ... No horrendous side effects
Skin has NOT gotten worse nor improved ( still early days)
No weight gain
No depression (probably decrease in depressive moods!)
Great mood
Slight nausea on first day ( very slight and goes away wthin an hour esp if taken with or around a meal)
Leg cramps for a few hours ( if this persists though it should be checked out)
Headache once
Made period quite heavy for a day ( only one day, then they were light and normal for the rest of the 2 days) Don't be scared by the negative reviews. Just because it did nothing for some people put there , there are many many many more women for which it did lots!!!!! Atleast give it a try, you can always stop!!!! I'm glad I didnt let all these negative reviews discourage me from atleast trying!!!! I dont think its fair for people to discourage others from even trying, GO FOR IT!!!

I was originally put on this pill when I was sixteen to clear up my acne-ridden skin. I'm now 21 and have been advised to come off it and try a different pill due to the possible long-term effects, but I've never had any problems taking Dianette and in fact it's improved my quality of life in several small but important ways. When taking Dianette I was noticably calmer with more energy and confidence, and much better skin! Cleared up my acne quickly
Made my periods lighter and virtually eradicated period pain
Made my periods more regular
Improved my PMT and in fact evened my moods out throughout my cycle
Improved my metabolism and made it easier for me to control my weight


Possible long-term effects when taken for more than five years I have heard a lot of horror stories about the pill but my advice to anyone is that it's worth persisting and trying a couple of different types. There's no one pill that works for everyone, and just because you have a bad reaction to one doesn't mean you're just "not suited" to the pill. Dianette in particular seems to suit me and if my new pill doesn't do the same I will definately be going back to it!

Hi everyone.

I had suffered acne for a few years but it suddenly got worse when I was away in Australia and I was put on Dianette. After a couple of months it cleared it up completely and I had perfect skin. It was brilliant. Nothing else had worked and I'd been on Yasmin before.

I stayed on the pill for 2 years and then started getting quite bad breakthrough bleeding. I've now come off it. My skin is still 100% fine and seems to have settled down. I tried Yasmin again and still have problems with the bleeding and might have to come off the pill a while.

My advice is to use Dianette for your skin, as it really works and made such a difference to me, but don't stay on it for too long.

Best of luck
Claire Cleared up skin completely Slight depression
Caused breakthrough bleeding Try it for a few months - give it 6 to work, but don't stay on it for too long. Your skin will be ok!

i have been taking dianette for about 4 months now. my skin is better but i still have spots and some days can be bad. i have also experienced an itchy rash on my chest and had not thought it could be due to the dianette until i just read that other people have experienced it as well. i have put on weight since i've been taking it and have been eating more. i have had bad headaches when taking it. skin better and less greasy
headaches
rash
craving food

Went on Dianette to get rid of mild acne on chin and used as a contraceptive. Was on this pill for about 10 years. I am now 32. My skin was good overall and it was an effective contraceptive pill however please see the bad points.......... Caused severe liver damage as a result of long term use
Itching of the skin
Jaundice
Upper right pain
Benign Tumour found in liver Not worth the risk of anyone going through losing half their liver or their life due to the pill's side effects. I knew nothing of the effects it had on my health but thankfully I am now healed but went through a major operation. Causes serious liver damage in long term users.

I have just turned 25 and have, until about 4 months ago, never had a spot on my face in my life - which I totally took for granted. I now have acne on my cheeks and round my mouth which is severley distressing, I have lost all my self confidence and if I could, I would not leave the house EVER!!!

I have tried a few things, had facials with dermalogica and gone onto their skincare regime and used Benzoyl Peroxide from the doctors but they didnt seem to make any difference. I went back to the doctors and they gave me Dianette as they say I am experiencing a hormone inbalance which the pill should rectify and it should clear my skin. I have only been taking it for 2 weeks.

To start with I felt quite nauseous, I have never taken the pill before so I think my body was just getting used to it. I have also experienced quite tender and larger than normal breasts and I think my skin has become less oily although as yet I have not noticed a difference in my spots, in fact some quite big and painful ones have appeared on my forehead which is an area which was unnaffected before (although I am sure this is just the acne and not the Dianette cauing this).

Could anyone advise me as to how long I may need to wait before I notice some changes?

Thanks

Rach

Ive been using Dianette for a while now, so far ive had no problems and its cleared up my acne.
As far as some of the problems listed on this board i can only imagine that some people would of had these problems wheather they took Dianette or not, and as they finished using dianette problems then occured which they then blamed on the Dianette tabelts. Clears acne
Good for removing excessive hair on face and arms
also dianette is used for feamle hair loss on the scalp. There are bad point to every drug, speak to your doctor before taking dianette and decide if its for you. AS above Dianette has worked fine for me, I get mine online

I went on Dianette for a month in July for my acne and i happen to be one of the small percentage of women who has an adverse affect.
I also had sleepness nights, as i was breaking out with hives on my knee caps in the middle of the night. None? Acne gone worst
Allergic reaction
I wouldnt go on this again.

Having acne as a child and now in adult hood, I now suffer more from very oily skin, on my face and back, having a few spots mainly around my period which were more boil like and very painful.

While having a facial the beauty therapist told me that some of her clients recommend Dianette/co-cyprindiol to control acne/oily skin.

Doctor never warned me of any side effects.

I have being taking it now for 3 months and my boobs have increased in size and I have in the past week developed a rash mainly on by boobs. Has anyone else experienced this?

Im also wear contact lenses and my vision seems to be a little blurred at times.

I have stopped taking it until I see my doctor, hopefully this evening!
Has reduced production of oil in skin
Less spots
Not gained any weight or nothing to speak of Breasts swollen and sore when period is due
seem to have had a few headaches, whereas I really dont have any.
Blurred vision
Rash (although this could be unconnected)
Good at reducing the oil in the skin but not worth it when you take in to consideration all of the negatives.

I went on Dianette nearly 2 years ago for my acne and greasy skin. It cleared my acne after a few months and my face is less oily. I do still get small spots but nothing like I used to and my skin is only less oily certain times of the month. It is actually starting to be constantly oily again after 2 years of taking the pill.
I have had the worst PMT ever since being on this pill and my sex drive is lowering by the day. I have quite bad mood swings and I'm quite paranoid and shy which is making me unsociable. I would reccommend this as a short term solution to getting rid of ance but you have to bare in mind that the Dianette will not work forever. My doctor has taken me off this now, as reccommended after 2 years, and prescribed me an antibiotic gel. Clears skin
makes skin less oily
contraceptive
Free (only if used as a contrceptive) Mood swings
depression
nausea Only take if you are desperate to lose your acne for a while chose an alternative if just using as a contraception

Been on and off Dianette since i was 17 (im now 19) i was put on it at first for acne, but came off it a few times coz i was feeling sick every night and was gaining weight. Went back on it 6 months ago coz my acne was getting me down, then met my boyfriend so needed it for contreception. At the begining i was fine on it, had no side effects and it had cleared up my skin, then months down the line, my skin seemed to get worse, i became a confused emotional wreck, i wasn't particularly moody, just very emotional, crying at the slightest thing and being over sensitive! Bigger boobs!
No pregnancy Bouts of depression.
Sometimes moody and snappy, especially at the end of each pack.
Being far too emotional.
Irrational thoughts.
Crying and flipping out at the slightest thing.
Always feeling vunerable.
Negative thoughts and feelings, just couldnt look on the bright side!
Bad period pains and heavier periods (which i never used to suffer with)
It would take about 5 days for my period to start. It was fine for me to begin with, and did clear up my skin, but i dont think its suitable for long term use. Isn't it ban in America? And it is a known pill to cause depression.

Went on Dianette for acne and contraception as well Boobs grew slightly.
No babies.
Clear skin
Regular periods
Didnt gain weight Mood swings on weeks break
Headaches on weeks break including a few killer migraines
Bloating
If i ran 2 packs together i could feel quite nauseous the second month.
Periods werent pain free and werent too light either
Overall its fine, i was on Dianette for over a year, came off because of the headaches and mood swings and wanted to find something better. Also id heard the cyperotone acetate that works as the anti androgen is a toxin and makes the liver work harder. My skin was fine coming off also, didnt break out.

been on dianette since i was about 13 - just come off it and results are NOT good!

ive suffered from severe acne since i was about 13 and was put on dianette plus other topical treatments and antibiotics. nothing worked so i eventually was referred to a dermatologist who prescribed me roaccutance, a horrid horrid drug but it DOES work, and my skin cleared up. i then wanted to lose some of the weight id put on with dianette so i came off it, and my acne returned worse that ever at around age 18. i had to go on a second course of roaccutane which again worked, and my skin has been clear for about 3 years (im now 21).

however im due for an operation in a couple of months and was advised to come off dianette as my blood pressure was slightly on the high side. i came off it about 3 months ago and my skin is really bad. its so depressing and ruins your self confidence. im going to go back on dianette as soon as i can as i dont like the sound of yasmin and i know dianette works.

theres nothing worse than having sore, horrid skin that you are ashamed of and having to cover it up with layers of make up. - kept my skin clear and oil free, such a big thing in my life because ive been through hell with it
- regular, light periods with very mild PMT
- free on NHS!
- hair also in great condition - slight weight gain
- slight increase in breast size (i dont want them bigger!)
- blood pressure needs to be monitored
- contraception works if taken properly
- slight loss of sex drive but nothing too bad
i want to go back on this pill asap. i didnt realise how good it was until i came off it. i would do anything to avoid having bad skin again and i can live with the VERY MILD side effects. obviously everyone reacts to drugs differently but i would recommend it if you suffer from acne.

I have been taking the pill for three months tomorrow (im just 16) and my skin has cleared up wonderfully. Yes i did take the pill primarily as a contraceptive.. Before i had started the pill i had really bad acne and it depressed me. As my prom is next month i was seriously concidering not going as what kind of dress covers acne on the chest and back?

Although they have not completley gone i do not suffer from big spots anymore they have just turned into little pimples and there are very few on there at all..

My boyfriend knew me before i started the pill and still knows me and he admits that my mood has changed.. I have an anger problem and i am very paranoid and sometimes i think its going to break us apart...
Skin is clearing up rapidly thus giving me more confifdence
I had an increased sex drive? Might just be me though
Increased cup size, this could be due to weight gain.. Weight gain.. gone from an 8 to a 12 in 3 months
Anger issues
Paranoia
increased appetite
comes with a lot of potential health threats Good idea for girls who need to clear up acne, not good as a general contraception

I've been taking Dianette for about four years now, as I suffered from really bad acne (I am now 28). Within two months my skin had cleared completely. After about two years my doctor persuaded me to come off Dianette and back onto Microgynon(?). Within a few weeks my acne had come back so I went back onto Dianette. I have only just started to link the side effects I am suffering (loss of sex-drive, depression, anxiety, paranoia) to Dianette and I am seeing my doctor this week to discuss alternatives. To be honest, although Dianette improved my self-confidence in terms of having fantastically clear skin, it is no longer worth the down side. My boyfriend is extremely patient, but I cannot carry on feeling this way. Dianette is great for your skin......but in my opinion the side effects are just not worth it. Just wish I had made the link between my moods and this pill earlier. Great skin
No pregnancy
Weight gain
Depression
Loss of sex-drive
Anxiety
Paranoia
Tiredness
Great in the short term to treat acne. But would not recommend for long term use. Please speak to your doctor early if you feel the same way I do. It's just not worth it.

Was started on this pill aged 16 by a dermatologist for acne, was expecting miracles after reading reviews on the net.... improved skin a little bit...but it was far from clear even after taking continuosly for a year, was disappointed with the result.
Noticed that the hair growth on my legs slowed down, so needed to shave less often!
When I stopped taking it my periods stopped completely for 9 months, only returned when I started taking another pill. weight gain - went up nearly two dress sizes (from 10/12 to bursting out of a 14!) and was the biggest iv ever been despite diet and exercise, this was the reason I came off it.
When I stopped taking it my skin went very greasy, worse than before I started taking it. It took over 6 months for it to go back to normal. Although it seems to work wonders for a lot of people, I personally think the small improvement in my skin clarity did not justify putting up with weight gain, and the oiliness of my skin afterwards was a nightmare!

I had been taking Dianette for 4years with a 3month break when i took Mycrogenon (sp?). I was given Dianette originally because i had terrible acne and topical creams had stopped working.
After about 4months i noticed a dramatic improvement with my skin.It was alot less oily and i had alot less acne forming.After a year my skin was completely clear, even during my period spots were minimal.
After 4years iv been adviced to come off Dianette due to the risk of clotting.I have had no sign of any side effects.Weigh gain was a huge issue but that has not happened as far as i am aware.I did (and so did many others) notice my boobs grew by at least 2 cups sizes, sometimes 3 around the time of a period.
Occassionally, id forget to take a pill or two, this resulted in my period being a couple of days later which can be terrifying if you're relying on it for contraception.But it never failed me.
Overall id recommend Dianette if there are no known risks in family history. Acne cleared, dramatic change within 3months, completely clear within a year.
Boobs grew at least 2 cup sizes, occassionally 3.
Contraception worked fine when taken correctly. Apparently theres a risk of blood clotting so i couldnt stay on it as long as i would have liked.

Can be frustrating as there are no instant fixes for acne but if continued it clears skin really well. Overall id recommend Dianette if there are no known risks in family history.
Just disappointed i couldnt stay on it for longer.

I had been taking Dianette for 4years with a 3month break when i took Mycrogenon (sp?). I was given Dianette originally because i had terrible acne and topical creams had stopped working.
After about 4months i noticed a dramatic improvement with my skin.It was alot less oily and i had alot less acne forming.After a year my skin was completely clear, even during my period spots were minimal.
After 4years iv been adviced to come off Dianette due to the risk of clotting.I have had no sign of any side effects.Weigh gain was a huge issue but that has not happened as far as i am aware.I did (and so did many others) notice my boobs grew by at least 2 cups sizes, sometimes 3 around the time of a period.
Occassionally, id forget to take a pill or two, this resulted in my period being a couple of days later which can be terrifying if you're relying on it for contraception.But it never failed me.
Overall id recommend Dianette if there are no known risks in family history. Acne cleared, dramatic change within 3months, completely clear within a year.
Boobs grew at least 2 cup sizes, occassionally 3.
Contraception worked fine when taken correctly. Apparently theres a risk of blood clotting so i couldnt stay on it as long as i would have liked.

Can be frustrating as there are no instant fixes for acne but if continued it clears skin really well. Overall id recommend Dianette if there are no known risks in family history.
Just disappointed i couldnt stay on it for longer.

I've now been on Dianette for 4 years and during that period of time I never noticed any bad symptoms - well until I read these reviews and realised that I must have been suffering symptoms but not noticing at ALL! You see... I was never moody until I began taking it and have attemped suicide twice because of extreme loss of confidence and continuous arguing with family my younger sister my fiance' and my close friends and constantly feeling like I have been battling against everyone for so long. It seems to have made me very sensative to any comments made and very lazy. I can never bring myself to get up and do anything. My severe acne did disappear though and i love having clear beautiful skin. I want to go visit my GP though because me and my fiance' are planning a new addition to our family - i need advice on whats best to do. I'm terrified my spots will invade me once again though!!! Beautiful clear skin on Face, Back and Chest.

Soft managable hair- never greasy - I don't have to wash it all the time.

Fuller Breasts
Extreme depression

Loss of concentration

Lack of Energy

Headaches - especially tension in the forehead and eyes - OUCH!

This is absolutely wonderful for young girls who suffer terribly from acne and are old enough to be responsible with contraceptives, this will clear up your skin within 5 to 8 weeks (this could vary though for everyone).

I would not recomend this though to women who wish only to use it as contraception alone- loss of confidence is a horrible feeling.

To Nichola who left review on 6th May.

I dont know if you have read my review but i have been on Dianette for eight years now with occasional breaks to try other pills which were useless. I paid for a one off appointment with a professor at a private hospital who specialises in pcos ( it was £100 for the appointment) and he said as long i was healthy, not smoking etc i could stay on Diantte for as long as i wanted to with three month check ups for blood pressure at the doctors.He sent a letter to my regular GP to state his advise of me being on Diantte long term.
I asked about the warnings about Diantte not being safe in the long term and he said as long as i was healthy and had regular checks it would be fine. He is a professor and has written several books on pcos so it really put my mind at ease.

Im not sure whether the same would apply to someone without Polysistic ovaries though but it was good to have my mind put to rest.
I really can sympathise with you about Dianette, i came off it by choice for six months to see what it would be like and it was awful!. My hair thinned my skin was bad i put weight on and was so emotional. I went staright back on it after getting a private appointentment to discuss all the rumours about the Dianette as i had also been warned by people.

I have been on Dianette for almost 3 years for my skin, but once I finish this month's packet I am changing to a different pill. My previous doctor advised me that as long as I was healthy I could take it for as long as I wanted to. When I moved house, my new doctor told me I had to change.

I came off Dianette once before as was told it could be dangerous, but my acne returned. After being spot-free for years it is soul-destroying when the acne comes back. So I went back on.

In my opinion, the benefits outweigh the risks with Dianette, because my self-esteem is now a lot higher and I feel confident and happy with myself. Lovely skin (only a few spots around my period).
Bigger breasts.
Lighter periods and less pain.
Less PMT. Some depressive mood swings.
Some weight gain (around half a stone).
Occasional pains in my legs and arms.
Often feel tired.
Skin sensitive to sunlight, can burn easily. I am extremely worried about changing as I feel I have found a pill that really works for me.

Would recommend for anyone suffering from the torment of acne. Can be very addictive though! Remember it's not meant to be a long-term solution.

Can anyone give advice as to why this is supposedly a nasty pill? Because I can't see it!!

Just want to mention im confused about docs saying people cant use dianette as its dangerous. Thankfully i see a private pfofessor for my PCOS and he has promisd me its safe to take forever as long as i dont smoke, stay at a healthy weight and excercise also drink only in moderation. He is a specialist on PCOS and treatments so i completely trust him. I feel really sorry for all of you who are being taken of it as i understand how hard it is coping with the symptoms.
I came off Dianette as i had read a scary article about it but after six months on Metformin i was a total mess and went to a private doctor to seek advice on Dianette and was shocked to hear that i could take Dianette safely for a long period of time. I have tried Loestrin 20 and Microgynon both were awful and apparently Loestrin 20 is a unreliable contraceptive which i was only warned of after, what a joke!.
Stable weight.
Reduces hair loss.
Makes excess hair on face/body finer, easier to manage.
Clears skin. (but takes ages same with the excess hair situation).
Really light periods that start and finissh like clockwork every month.
Fuller Boobs.
Really excellent contraceptive.
No greasy hair or skin.
Sleep really well as night. Really bad pmt for about two days, sometimes randomly mostly after come off for seven day brake.
Short temper/agression.
Laziness feeling. (but i have found doing at least 30 min cardio a day tends to combat this plus drink loads water).
A bit of IBS.

I really have tried many different avenues for PCOS, tried diff pills, metformin and nothing at all except herbal stuff and out of everything Dianette for me really is the only option. It definately effects my mood i cant deny that but every other option did too. Dianette is slow to work but when it really kicks in (after about one to two years) the benefits are undeniable, good hair,skin,confidence,full boobs, light periods, reduction in excess hair on face/body.
If you have trouble with your doc i would recommend paying to see a private specialist like i did, it really puts your mind at rest and if hes anything like the one i see hel let you stay on Dianette as long as your healthy.

I just want to say to all the ladies out there who feel like freaks because they have no sex drive when on the pill - do not fear, you are not a freak! I was on the Australian version (am Aussie living in London) of Dianette (Dianne) and had been since I was 16, mainly to clear up my skin, help me with bad period pain, etc. It was brilliant for about two years until I started getting into serious relationships and realised I had absolutely NO SEX DRIVE. Luckily, I went to a good doctor who explained that the pill increases your doses of female hormones so that the small amounts of male hormone you have (like testosterone) which cause things like acne, but also give you a sex drive, are suppressed. Which is why the pill makes you NEVER feel like having sex!
I changed to another pill called Valette (not available over here) and to be honest, it didn't make much difference except made my periods very irregular, which was more annoying!
Now 7 years later have just started Microgynon but am a bit sceptical about it considering all the bad reviews on this site! Hoping it won't turn me into a psychopath :(! I think generally the pill, whatever brand it is, makes you lose your sex drive, so if you don't need it for anything else like skin or periods, use another method of contraception if you feel comfortable! - Great skin
- Regular, lighter and less painful periods
- No pregnancy - No sex drive so really cancels out good point of no pregnancy, as not even having sex anyway even when in loving relationship!
- Mood swings (but not severe)
- No weight gain but fluid retention All pills are pretty much horrible but this is probably the best one I have been out (out of a bad bunch!).

I've had problems with irregular and absent periods since coming off the Depo-provera injection four years ago. After nearly two years of various tests I was diagnosed with PCOS despite not actually having cysts on my ovaries. I was informed that I had 2 out of 3 of the relevant diagnostic criteria in that lutenizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were the wrong way round and the irregular and absent periods. I felt somewhat sceptical by this diagnosis as am very aware of the effect of stress etc on the body and I'd had a nightmare time at uni and suffered with depression and a suicide attempt. Had a diagnostic laparoscopy for intermittent but quite severe abdominal pain. Consultant found nothing other than slightly red Fallopian tubes. The only thing the doctors and my consultant ever recommended was Dianette and I avoided this as was concerned by reviews I'd read about it and my history of depression. Gave in and decided to give it a try but last two weeks have been a living hell. It felt like a switch flicked in my head as soon as I started taking it. I've been picking fights with my boyfriend, have been tearful, emotional, moody, withdrawn. I've also felt very close to suicide again and the main thing that has stopped me is knowing how awful it is to have attempted suicide before. I don't think I could do that to my family again. The only good point I can see is from a contraception point of view. If you're in a loving relationship and have been tested for STIs then it does improve sex as feel closer. Constantly hungry and have gained 4lbs in 2 weeks of taking this. Feel like I've become a different person with whole personality having changed. Tearful, argumentative, moody. Feel suicidal again. Stay well clear. I'm suspicious anyway about the effects of synthetic hormones on the body and in particular emotional well-being. Felt very similar when I tried Microgynon at 16 and Depo-provera until the age of 20. Basically am more convinced that synthetic hormones have an extremely negative impact on my emotional state.

I needed contraception plus something for my spotty skin. My spots cleared up so well i feel fantastic, however I have to come off as my behaviour is totally erratic. Im more insecure, paranoid and so emotional whilst on this pill and it is effecting my relationship. I feel that I was quite the same when I was on Microgynon. Brilliant skin
No pregnancy Moody
Emotional
Paranoid
Insecure Excellent for skin clearing, rubbish if you wanna stay sane!

I was happily taking Microgynon and using antibiotic lotion to keep acne on my back at bay when my doctor suggested Dianette to cover both bases. Small size 12, 17 years old. I took Dianette for 5 years and the weight just crept up and crept up. My boobs went from 34D to 36D, were constantly sore and lumpy and I felt 'spongy' all the time, like I was retaining a lot of water.

Came off Dianette to get back to my noraml weight for a while when I was 19, but due to my acne returning with vengeance and new crops on my face, and a new relationship, I decided to go back on it. Skin got better again, but weight crept back up, too. Got sick of Dianette eventually, not a good pill (one friend kept blacking out in it). It is unsafe to take if you are not religiously taking it as if you fall pregnant and have a boy, tehy are likely to be damaged by it. Ended up on Cileste (see review of it!). No babies
Lovely skin while on it
Regular periods
Don't think it affected my moods Hunger and fatness, just kept on gaining weight-size 14 now! (Despite diets and gym)
Constant spongy feeling, particularly round my arms and ankles, bloating of my stomach and HUGE lumpy tender boobs. As if it makes you retain water? Brilliant for skin, but not the only solution, try Dalicin T topical lotion, not bad stuff and doesn't muck up your body, works especially well with other weaker dose pills, as they tend to stabilise your hormones a bit anyway. Also in conjunction with tea tree body washes and a healthy diet, seemed to keep mine fine.

If you don't want to put on weight, steer well clear. Not safe for long haul flights either-far increased risk of thrombosis (hence new guidlines to GPs not to give out unless bad acne).

If there is any chance of you falling pregnant, not safe, can affect development of male feotuses.

I took Dianette for 12 months in 2000 for what I was told was PCOS at the time.

A friend in Germany took Dianette for 5 years, as she was told that because of her irregular menstrual cycles, this drug would regulate her cycles and preserve her fertility. Clearer skin.
Regular periods. Weight gain.
When I stopped Dianette, I gained even more weight and my skin was terrible.
I read Colette Harris's book and found out why!

My German friend stopped Dianette after several years to try for a baby. Her son is ''feminised'' from long term effects of the drug which remained in her body.
All was well until he reached the age of 5 and he was found to have undescended testes (both testicles had failed to drop because of low testosterone levels). It is highly likely that because she was on Dianette, and antiandrogen drug, that her baby had low testosterone in the womb. Poor little mite had to have his testicles operated on at age 5 to bring them down! Don't touch this drug.
If PCOS is an issue for you, read Colette Harris's book and follow her advice instead.

I was put on Dianette at the age of 15 for acne and contraception reasons. I am now 19 and are extremely delighted with the physical effects of the pill. My skin stays clear except for a few blemishes during the time of the month, my hair is in great condition too. I had a months break from it last summer and I regret it! I broke out in acne I have never had in my life! It lingered for so long my skin was greasy and red but as soon as I went back on it it soon cleared up. During my 4 years on it, I have had no problems with mood swings just irritability during the time of the month which is normal and the occasional migraine which I can deal with.

My biggest concern is with my lack of libido. At first it was fine but i feel over the 4 years it has dramatically deteriorated in my case and as a 19yr old I feel totally inadequate and freakish! Im unsure if its souly down to dianette or if the problem lies deeper. Also I have recently had a lack of energy but i believe its probably down to my lifestyle and exercise will perk me up! Great clear skin
Soft Shiny hair
Short pain free periods
No spotting between
Hardly any mood swings Lack of libido
Migraines about once a month
Lack of energy or motivation I am slightly worried about the negative reviews I've been reading and will certainly be asking my Gp about all the things I've been reading regarding the law against it in the USA. Apart from that it's been a wonderous thing for the past four years giving me great skins,. leaving me feeling happier about myself ans appearence. I will probably continue using despite of the negatives because of the effectiveness of the acne treatment its giving!

I originally took Dianette as a teenager (16-18) and found I had no side effects or problems. I used it as a contraception and method for controlling my acne. It did clear up my acne, but it takes a while to fully take affect. I would say a good 4 or 5 months. I never got pregnant while using Dianette (as a sole method of protection) I would say to anyone that you should use both the pill and condoms to protect from STD's in this day and age. I stopped taking Dianette after 2 years to give my body a break.

I am now 26 and 5 months ago started taking Dianette again. WHAT A DIFFERNCE THIS TIME ROUND. I am tired all the time (literally have to struggle to get out of bed no matter how much sleep i've had) and i have never had headaches and migranes this bad in my whole life. It feels like there is a constant pressure in my head and eyes all the time. The emotional effects are extreme for me, I have gone from being a bubbly, happy person to an emotional wreak. I want to cry all the time. I feel low about myself every day. It has done nothing for my acne this time round....5 months in and i still looks like a dot to dot picture.

I have decided to come off this pill now and my doctor has given me Yasmin instead. After reading the reviews about Yasmin on this site, I have decided to come off the pill altogether (as i'm only using it to regulate my period and for my skin as opposed to a contraception method).

I can't wait to feel normal again......... Good for a lot of acne sufferers (didn't clear up mine but don't let that put you off).

Light and regular periods.

No weight gain (for me anyhow)

Bigger breasts (not good for me as i'm already an E Cup but i'm guessing not too many people would complain).

Headaches and migranes.

Depression/tearful emotional state.

Tiredness to the extreme (dispite a good nights sleep).

Deformity if you get pregant while on this (ALWAYS READ THE INFO PACK THAT COMES WITH YOUR CONTRACEPTION) Great for me as a teenager. Not good for me as an adult. Each person is different so i would not put anyone off trying this, especially if you have acne.

I would say that if you have a history of depression or suicide attempts then this probably isn't for you and i would not recommend it to people with this condition.

This pill is straight from hell. I was very stubborn that I decided to take Dianette knowing all of the bad and horrible effects. I cared too much about ''perfect skin.'' I wanted to have skin like all the models and celebrities because let's face it, our society is obsessed with perfect people. I felt so ugly with my acne and wanted a quick fix, so that's where Dianette came into play. I've been on it almost a year and have now decided to toss it out the window. Like most girls taking this pill, I also don't feel like having sex. I have become so irritable and not a pleasant person to hang around with. I've also lost all of my energy and feel so lazy most of the time. If it wasn't for coffee, I don't know how I'd work and get out of the house.
If you ever want children in the near future, don't even pop one of these pills in your mouth. Ultimately it will lead to infertility. No wonder this pill is banned in America. Most Americans aren't that clued up with stuff, but they obviously are somewhat wiser in the birth control market. These pills are designed to make women not have children, e.g. loss of libido and infertility issues. I guess it's one way to help reduce the population, something the elite of this world so badly want to do, so they can bring the term Gordon Brown loves to use, ''New World Order.''
Ladies, wake up and realise that perfect skin is attainable without reaching for Dianette. Try taking the B Vitamins, such as B5. I read that B5 is awesome for combating acne. Do a google search on it. Good Skin, No greasy hair or skin Loss of Libido - You don't want to have sex EVER
Depression
Irritability and Moodiness
Lazy and Fatigue
Weight Gain - You are just much hungrier than usual
Sensitive - Crying spells and any form of criticism sparks anger, insult and tears
Infertility
Once you come of it, prepare for acne galore!

I would never ever recommend this pill to anyone, not even my enemies, if I had them.
If you are reading this and thinking about taking Dianette, please change your mind. Don't be like others and me who have regretted ever touching Dianette. Use our mistakes for your examples as to why Dianette is the pill straight from the pit.

I've been using Dianette for 10 months now. It's been such a wonderful pill because it's cleared my skin, although I still get spots every now and then. I don't need to touch up with facial powder because my face is never greasy. I don't have to wash my hair every single day too, so you end up saving money on shampoo and conditioner. :-) Basically the only benefits of this pill are: no greasy skin & hair and no acne 1. Clear Skin
2. No oily hair & skin 1. Loss of libido - This is why I'm coming off of this pill
2. Moody - I'd get really moody for nothing. I feel bad for my husband!
3. Lazy - This pill made me lose motivation to do anything. I've always been a go getter, but with this pill, I became a lazy unmotivated woman. Everything was a chore! I had to drink lots of caffeine or take energy pills just to workout.
This pill is obviously great for skin, but what I'm afraid of now is what's going to happen once I come off of Dianette. I've read how acne will return with a vengeance and that your skin will get very oily. These awful side effects just show you how bad this pill is on a woman's body. Isn't worth screwing up your body to get perfect skin? I don't think so.
I'm going to just focus on eating healthy organic food and no junk food, using natural hair & facial products, drink lots of water and exercise. I may suffer for a little while with bad acne again, but I know the awful effects will subside and I'll be better.

This pill is awful for people who want to have sex. I went from loving sex to now dreading it. I don't feel in the mood EVER! I feel bad because my husband is always in the mood and it's such hard work for me to take my clothes off. I have no clue why my GP never told me about this stuff. I had to spend hours researching online myself. This pill should be banned in Europe.

I started Diannette when i was 18 due to having spots all over my face, neck, back and chest. I am now 26 and have came off it 4 months ago. The spots have came back with a vengance! My hair and skin become so greasy. However its does appear to be settling down and they are much better on my face now although still have them on my back and chest. I am hoping that in a couple more months they settle even more and hopefully go. I am not taking any other pill at the moment. It is to be expected that your body reacts after masking it with the pill for so long, especially a pill as strong as diannette. Fantastic skin
I lost weight although i don't believe this was due to the pill
No bad points. A pill that gave me a life!
Brilliant radiant skin.
Would definitely go on it again.

i went on this after being on micrgynon for 2 yrs it cleared up my skin (that was caused by the pill) but that is all. my periods were long and the pain were not helped ( i didnt suffer this befor the pill)and made me suffer more headaches.but i was happy as it didnt give me mood swings however i went to see my nurse and she told me that this pill is good for skin but a poor contraceptive so im now trying cilest(i'l write a review once iv had it for 3mnths) good skin
no mood swings low sex drive
painful periods
heavy periods
not a good contraceptive if thats all your using it for try it youl know if its for you but only if you have got bad skin!!

i was put on this pill to help my acne and eventually used it fir contraception, it cleared my skin up and i had no troubles with my periods. i was told i could only go on it for a year so i got the contraceptive implant and i hate it, my periods were a mess to start off with and my skin became really bad again. i am now getting my implant taken out and im of back on the dianette pill. cleared my skin up perfectly. none so far its the only pill i will take as i know it gets rid of my really bad spots.

Been on this pill for 3 months now and have taken my last pill today. I have always had really bad skin and at 23 was frankly getting tired of having teenage skin. Doctor prescribed me dianette a few months ago. Cleared up my sin immediately - wonderful for that - BUT horrendous mood swings found my crying in a shopping centre because the man at the vodafone shop had opened the box that my new phone was in! I was an emotional wreck. No weight gain, but for the past 2 weeks have had crippling migranes. I was reluctant to come off this pill at first - I don't want my spots back and the contraception is great, but the painkillers for my migranes are making me drousy and I have ruled out everything else as the cause of them. I'm petrified now that my skin will immediately return to the greasy mess it was before! Beautiful Skin.
No weight gain.
Contraceptive cover. Horrendous mood swings - nearly caused my partner to leave.
Crippling Migranes - now behind on uni work as a result. If i'd have known how this pill would have made me feel emotionally and physically, i would have found another acne treatment. It would have been better to never know what it was like to have perfect skin!

Have been on Dianette since reading about it in an american mag whe I was 19, previously had only ever had occasional spots, not acne like it is intended for.. I am now 26.
It is amazing for skin and I havent ever had any problems at all on it. However when I stopped taking it I was switched to the injection Depo.P and I got the worst skin I had ever had in my life. it was awful! The doc went on about how no one should ever be on Dianette for more than 3 yrs as it is such a dangerous pill etc.
However Im now too afraid to come off it in case the bad skin etc was due to not having it, as opposed to the injection.
Was on Cilest whe I was younger and didnt have any major probs with it.. kind of wish Id never started the Dianette now as I am dependent on it and the doctor wont let me have it any more!! Think it might make skin worse than before I started on it. Great skin
no effect on weight
stopped leg and under arm hair growth completely (some might say thats bad)
Have never been pregnant and am awful at remembering to take it. sometimes missed up to 4 pills from one packet no bad points when on it but when I came off it...
Bad skin (though might be due to injection)
Far higher sex drive (though it wasnt exactly low when on it)
Apparently its really dangerous..? Its a brilliant pill but should only be used for those who really need it.

I starting taking dianette to control my spots and period pains and took it for 8 months. For some reason I decided to stop taking it and my spots came back as soon as my next period arrived and I have had very greasy skin since! I have also experience period pains for the first time in months! So i'm thinking i'm going to start aking it again No weight gain at all, really cleared up my spots, i never got one at all when i was taking it, never suffered any discomfort whilst on my period. Not really any noticable side effects. i got the occasional headache & moodswing. The benefits outweigh the disadvantages by far, it really does what it is supposed to!

Have been on Diannette on and off since age of 18 (am now 32)Was stopped initially by GP when 24 due to the possibility of having ovarian cysts, i didnt but got pregnant straight away! Pregnancy made me very spotty, eventually went back on Diannete, spots more or less under control but lately seem worse more often and I have gone hairy?! Anyone else experienced similar. I ma concious of my age and that I cant take this forever, going back to Docs, thinking about Yasmin. Did def clear skin up
Not moody, well not much anyway
no weight gain
lighter periods Going spotty again
hairy
Dry
Lowish labido, really have to make the effort It did definatly help, but I just feel that its not as effecetive anymore, not sure if pthers have experienced similar or not. Am terrified though of stopping it and tying another in case I go really spotty again...

I was given this pill when i was 15 im now 23 and still on it.. I was given it for my skin and my skin i completely clear apart from the very rare one! Skin is Fab!! I fell preg twice!!!! Im still takin it in hope i was sick or somethin around the time i fell!! I dont get on with any others!

Was prescribed Dianette for skin problems and contraceptive. Was on Cilest previously for 2 years which was fine at first but started to get breakthrough bleeding and bad spots. Been taking Dianette for 2 weeks now, was a bit worried about all the negative reviews and reports i've read for it, but kept an open mind. My doctor said that she has never had one complaint about Dianette. I have noticed a slight improvement in my skin, it's less greasy and slightly less spotty already. I'm a bit concerned that i've been quite moody, emotional and tired since i've been on it. I also got a really long and bad period after taking it for just a few days. I will carry on with it for a while to see if these side effects disappear. Unsure so far, will reserve judgement until i've been taking it for at least 2 or 3 months. Great for my skin but not sure it's worth the mood swings, i'm not used to crying randomly and snapping at people.

Was put on Dianette when i was 15, im now 16.
helped me alot! i had quite bad acne and just felt so low all the time because of the acne, tried lots of stuff like creams none of them worked!
so my doctor put me on dianette also for my bad periods.
and its been great, my acne has gone just a few lingering on the face in places but real good improvement!, my periods are lighter and painless! just the odd pain. overall i think its great. face cleared, lighter and less painful periods good contraceptive which is great! i do tend to get emotional more easily and cry alot more than i usually did, legs sometimes hurt but got them checked out and no problems.. but yeah.
i have put on weight not alot really. great for those suffering with acne and find nothing actually works! also for people like myself who suffered with REAL bad period pains and want reflief! and i find its a good contraceptive too :)

I have been on Dianette for a couple of months now, was prescribed it for contraceptive use and to clear up some acne. This so far for me has been great. My skin is looking clearer, not perfect yet but I've only been on it a little while. The fact that you are protected from pregnancy is also great. Plus my breasts are a little bigger and being quite tiny to start with, thats quite a plus :D My hair which is quite thin and is always looking a bit limp is looking all shiny and full and doesn't get so greasy. This pill has a really bad reputation, before going on it I read a lot of reviews that really scared me and almost thought about not taking it. I'm glad I did, the only bad point is my breasts are a little tender but no more so than I used to get around my period anyway. Highly recommend for people who want to have contraceptive protection and clearer skin. The only thing I would say, based on other people's experiences is that if you have had side effects before to medicines, just look out for any severe symptoms.

I was 14 when I started taking them - I had really long periods. A doctor perscribed them. I got really hairy and it didn'r regulate my periods. I saw another doctor who told me these pills are not reccomended to so young girls. No good pionts in my case Got hairy
Didn't regulate my period
I don't reccomend it. See alternatives for regulating your periods.

Started taking Dianette for skin problems Amazing, skin cleared up completely and boobs got bigger. Didn't appear to gain any weight and my mood was unaffected. That I cannot take it forever. Have been tried Yasmin - Awful. Have been given Cilest today, but reading the reviews it looks as though this one may be worse. I would love to be able to carry on taking it. This is a really good pill!!

Age 13 was diagnosed with PCOS. Had all classic symptoms extreme weight gain, insane mood swings, acne and excess hair growth on face and stomach area also thinning of hair on head.Was given Dianette, within a year skin was completely perfect, hair growth on face and body had significantly decreased as well as reduction in greasy hair and skin. However moods were a bit erractic. At age 20 went up to 10 stone not good at five foot three and was advised to try diff pill.All symptoms came back v.quickly so was put back on Dianette. I now weigh eight stone four down to reducing carbs, dont miss carbs as much as perfect skin and hair so figured worth the sacrifice. Have now been on Dianette for ten months afetr the year break sympotoms are slowly but surely clearing up again. P.S tried Microgynon was total nightmare gained more weight, skin was awful was completely depressed and suffered from sickness just want to warn others of this pill is pill from hell! Amazing skin, reduction in greasy hair and skin, very light, short periods, reduction in all of awful PCOS symptoms. You do have to watch your weight but same with any pill!Does slightly effect your moods i noticed have to keep myself in check sometimes but what women doesn't?! People who suffer from PCOS dont suffer!I have been living with it for ten years and this is the only thing that really keeps the symptoms under control, be persistant it takes well over a year to kick in. I dont understand these people whos' doctors wont let them use Dianette, my doctor and i discusssed the issues with Dianette,i am completely aware of the negative and 'dangerous' points however lifes to short to suffer, all pills have some health issues!The only issue i have is the moods however when i tried another pill yeah the mood subsided but i was complelety depressed with a face full of spots and excess hair!At the end of the day you need to have a doctor who you have a good honest relationship with in order to work out positives and negatives of treatments and what will benefit you and your life most. For me Dianette is the way forward!But do ask questions dont be afraid to speak up to your doctors i am fully aware of the negatives of taking Dianette however i am prepared to take the risk, as long as you are 100% in the know about your medication at the end of the day the desicion should be yours.

Started on microgynon, which I can't remember why i didn't get on with it but i didn't and also wanted something that incorportated skin treatment Sort of makes skin better, still get breakouts though, not bad awful ones but they do still happen. on a few occassions i forgot to take it and i didn't get pregnant Can't comment on moodiness as i've always been bad, but i think i've gotten worse. My periods are heavier than they were before taking the pill, and just as painful, still get a few skin breakouts Came off it mainly due to health risks and because my doctor recommended soemthing new, been put on Yasmin, so i've yet to see how that goes, altho the reviews so far are terrible for it so a bit worried!!

I was diagnosed with PCOS afew months ago, hospital consultant advised me to take Dianette for about 6 months. It has been roughly 2 weeks I cant say i have noticed any pro's at this stage but then its still early days. I have been feeling very down since taking Dianette,tearful and lack interest in everything. my friend noticed and told me i seem withdrawn and moody. My period is late and thats never been the case before. Stomach cramps (its hard to tell what the pain actually is - could be period pain but then i rarely have that) tender breasts (wouldnt mind them going bigger as the case with some women!) At the moment i feel i shouldnt have bothered with Dianette as i feel awful emotionally, and it seems as soon as its stopped the acne and hair (hirsutism problem) will flare back, so whats the point?! I think i will perservere for 6 months and then see whether its worth continuing.

Suffered with acne since age of 14 (now 25) dr put me on Dianette for this much to the upset of my mum! No problems with my skin now.. get the odd spot but nothing to really worry about remembering to take the pill! A fab contraceptive and fab for acne prone skin.. Def recommened it!

Doctor put me on Dianette when I was about 16, as I suffered with acne, tried loads of different pills in between, but ultimately stopped taking it because the mood swings were unbearable when i was about 19. I have started taking this again now I am 23, again for the acne, but a little scared of how I am going to deal with the moods. I have 2 children now also... Excellent skin that I can remember, its the only reason i am going on the pill at all as husband has had the snip, tried everything and nothing seems to work for the acne. Self esteem at ultimate low and this is the best thing I know to cure it. for me, its the moods, I remember how bad it was, I was like a woman posessed, but I am hoping that my extra years of living will allow me to deal with the moods better, and thus reap the benefits of clear skin, finally! Unsure, would probably need to wait a few months to see whether the clear skin outweighs the depression, suffer with both, so bit nervous but dont want to think about it too much incase I make it worse.

Been taking dianette for about 6 years, ok for the first year or so, then i became angry, confused and aggressive, i get days where i'm emotional and don't know why i'm crying, my boyfriend thinks i'm a pyscho!
But hey i'm not pregnant! Bigger boobs, pain free and regular periods, no acne and the obvious not getting pregnant Weight gain around the stomach area, bad bad mood swings! don't feel like the same person i was 6 years ago The bad thing is i don't want to come off it coz i'm so scared of becoming pregnant, but i know i'll end up depressed if i stay on it. Its just so easy to pop a pill in your mouth rather than faff around with a condom, who knows what to do!

I was prescribed this after taking a lot of other pills, including Cilest and Microgynon. I do not have acne or hair growth problems, it was simply for contraception. Few side effects (except slightly bigger boobs, which I can handle!), no problems with possible pregnancies, mood swings very little, nice skin, only a day of bad period pain. A few problems with regularity, i.e. period for a week, then off for a day, then back for 2, then done. NOt sure if that's just me though! Petrified about all these health risks I've heard about! Not sure exactly whether to carry on with this pill or ask for something else - anyone any recommendations for someone who just doesn't want to be crippled with pain every month, and not knowing when it's going to turn up? I've never had problems with it. I've never been warned by my Doctor about anything to do with it (which doesn't surprise me, he's not the most helpful man), but I really don't know what to do now. Hardly had any cons, but are the health risks worth it?

Been taking Dianette for 10 years on and off to clear up skin and love the wonder drug but been told today need to finally give it up! No weight gain, bigger boobs, excellent skin and hair, and excellent contraceptive never had a hic cup in all the time, and i am not a great time keeper. basically brilliant drug. no side effects that i have immedicately seen but because the drug was one of the first contraceptives out it is not recommended also got no long term studies on it, did hear something about testing it on rats/mice and they got absess on livers, umm not too good, drs been on at me for years to change but dont want to. love dianette would stay on it, tried Micro g but that was rubbish put on weight and boobs shrunk, tried yasmin, also rubbish bleed for a month! now reverting back to cilest but after seeing the reviews still not sure, can some scientists please run extreme tests on dianette so i can just stay on it! any one got a good pill who has been on dianette let me know!

I was put on Dianette when i was about 14, i was on it for almost 3years when i came off. I got really bad acne and tryed all sorts, creams, antibiotics etc: I loved Dianette and decided i would go back on that! face perfectly clear within a month of use, confidence through the roof. alot happier. periods very light, painless and controleable. it may clear my face completely but within just a few weeks of coming off it acne back bad as before. but I have no actual side affects of being on the pill its just the coming off it that bothers me i swear by dianette, its the best pill ever made and people say its got all these health risks but what pill doesnt, so theyr a little higher with dianette but the depression i suffer when have acne a little risk is deffinetly worth it! besides you never get anythin without a little risk in life do you :P! lol

my doctor put me on dianette as i was getting loads of spots and my hair started thinning but only a month of been on it my spots have gone and im not losing much hair,as im only 28.so its great for me.

Diagnosed with PCO aged 21, Dianette used with Roaccutane acne treatment for 2 years and no problems at all. Advised to come off as 'dangerous', not even sure now after 12 months what the dangers are, over and above long term use of most medication. Tried Mercillon, Marvillon and Cilest, all terrible but Cilest was the worst with very severe lower leg cramps. Begged to go back on due to acne returning aged 30 and plan to stay on as long as possible, 5 years I am told at this stage. All good really, although last 6 months on it I had break through bleeding, which after a break I hope will not happen again. Skin quality excellent and self esteem after years of acne excellent. Break through bleeing after 4 years continual use. 12 months of trial and error has taught me that Dianette isn't as harsh as others available, Cilest was terrible, others just problematic. Wish I hadn't been scared off by doctors but given realistic advice. Intend to stay on as long as possible, with breaks to have children, although concerned about spots when I do.

Suffered from mild acne, and was put on dianette to clear it up, was on this for over a year until 2 weeks ago was changed to Cilest because it can be dangerous. My skin cleared up really quick, and only got the odd spot! Lighter periods, which didn't last as long. Bigger boobs! Still had period pain and mood swings but suppose thats expected whether you're on the pill or not! Weight gain, that will not shift. Really didn't want to come off it, but you can't argue with the doctor. Have come out in spots again after changing to Cilest, but its only been2 weeks, so i'm going to give it a go,will at least finish the pack! Just been reading Cilest reviews, they have made me so paranoid. Overall, Dianette is fab for acne! Too good because you don't want to change, but i think spots outweigh the risks.

STARTED IT WHEN I WAS 16 AND HAVE BEEN ON IT FOR 5 YEARS GOT RID OF MY ACNE MOOD SWINGS AND BLEEDING IN BETWEEN OK NOT FOR LOMG TERM USE

I have had acne since the age of 13 and after 4 years of antibiotics I was put onto Dianette. I have been taking Dianette for 10 years now. It cleared my skin up completely, my periods were almost pain free and very light. Effective contraception also. Concerned about the health risks but too scared to come off it. I came off it for a month - my skin was greasy within days and the spots were really bad on my face and back. happy to keep taking it as i lost all my self confidence when I suffered with acne. I think it is a wonder drug but worried about when I want to get pregnant. Will my spots be worse than ever when i come off it again?

Had bad skin was put on this pill to control it ay 16. I am now 23 and getting a little worried. I have been on this pill for 7 years because of my skin. It cleared up my skin really quickly and I have not had a spot in years. It has also been a very good contraceptive. Little or no pain each month and light bleeding. For the last year I have been experiencing break through bleeding. Which is really annoying, I have tried other pills such as microgynon and my skin deteriorated pretty quickly. I am now trying Cilest but after reading the review am slightly worried. Also doc told me there is a chance of bone problems in later life. This pill had been amazing, but am worried to quit it. It has addictive qualities especially when your skin looks so good! But I figure its not worth being crippled with bone illness when I am older. I will put my vanity aside and try something new. For the short term this pill is good for people with acne.