Yaz and Depression: What Users Say

• All...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 23, 2019

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I’m 40 years old and have been suffering from PMDD forever. Once upon a time, I was on one of those low-dose pills that had the worst side effects. I stopped taking birth control for years and went on antidepressants, which have their own set of side effects. I went to my old gynecologist, she said change your diet and didn’t really care. My new doctor suggested Yaz, and my goodness, the first month has been amazing! I don’t want to kill anyone anymore, I’m not fatigued to the point where I can’t get out of bed, my joints don’t hurt, I’m not depressed, and I don’t have to miss work. My skin isn’t amazingly clear but has cleared up some, and my breasts are much fuller now, which is fine with me because they were starting to become flat anyway. I wish I started Yaz years ago!"

• Sto...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 11, 2020

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I was quite sceptic before I started using Yaz pill especially because I read a lot of bad reviews. Also, risk of developing blood clot was concerning. It has been one month that I am on the pill, and I have to say I am so happy I found out about this pill. As someone who is suffering from PMDD, Yaz is a lifesaver! I had really bad symptoms before my period: depression, anger, anxiety - I would scream when talking to my family members, I felt so miserable, and I would have huge food cravings. Now, I feel much better, I feel in peace with myself!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 6, 2020

For Birth Control "I’ve taken this Yaz pill for about 2 months, and I’m going off of it now. The anxiety and depression that came with this were not worth it. Sometimes, it came at the end of the pack, but I had terrible emotional problems all month long. I would cry for no reason, have multiple panic attacks a day, and have way too many self-deprecating thoughts. I’ve never had problems with periods before (no mood swings, cramps, bloating), but after starting this, I’ve experienced all of those. It’s been difficult to find a birth control pill that doesn’t come with emotional problems warranting antidepressants. I don’t know if I’ll ever find one."

• Vic...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 5, 2020

For Birth Control "I'm 25, haven't had an actual period in years (was on an IUD called Mirena). It was working fantastically for 7 years, then came the expiration date. My desire to search for a new method of birth control began. Considering how long I'd been on the IUD, I figured let's try something new. BIGGEST MISTAKE OF MY LIFE, it has been HORRIBLE finding a birth control that would fit my body, and Yaz was NO exception. I have been taking the pill for two months. Side effects came gradually, things you'd assume: breast tenderness, cramping, bloating, lower back sensitivity. But there was something much more sinister bubbling up, so slowly I didn't even notice, until I became a completely different woman. I have never been more depressed. Low energy, irritability, general feeling of discomfort, hopelessness, EMOTIONAL, crying all the time. Do your research, but based on my experience, RUN."

• Vic...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 5, 2020

For Birth Control "I'm 25, haven't had an actual period in years (was on an IUD called Mirena). It was working fantastically for 7 years, then came the expiration date. My desire to search for a new method of birth control began. Considering how long I'd been on the IUD, I figured let's try something new. BIGGEST MISTAKE OF MY LIFE, it has been HORRIBLE finding a birth control that would fit my body, and Yaz was NO exception. I have been taking the pill for two months. Side effects came gradually, things you'd assume: breast tenderness, cramping, bloating, lower back sensitivity. But there was something much more sinister bubbling up, so slowly I didn't even notice, until I became a completely different woman. I have never been more depressed. Low energy, irritability, general feeling of discomfort, hopelessness, EMOTIONAL, crying all the time. Do your research, but based on my experience, RUN."

• Lif...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 31, 2017

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I used Ortho Tri-Cyclen-Lo from 16-18 years old. My periods were easy without any side effects. By mid-18 years old, I was experiencing painful and heavy periods, with strong emotional swings. My emotions became unpredictable, extremely reactive, and at times I experienced deep depression and strong suicidal thoughts - completely contrary to my personality and traits. My parents requested I leave university, until that night we read about Yaz studies. Yaz was the only birth control with proven study results showing Yaz helps to control PMDD, which described exactly what I was experiencing. Yaz was immediately successful. Three and a half years later, I am still on Yaz and graduating with a Neuroscience degree. P.S. Generic Yaz experience was unsuccessful. 03/31/17"

• JB3...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 1, 2013

For Birth Control "I've been experimenting with different brands of birth control for 15 years. I took every pill under the sun, including the shot but always suffered terrible side effects from nausea and vomiting, to crazy mood swings, depression, anxiety and weight gain. Yaz is the ONLY pill I've been able to tolerate. I have very minimal side effects (some breast tenderness, occasional spotting). My skin looks great, I have more energy, I haven't gained a single pound, my periods are light, I still have a sex drive, and my emotions are not all over the place. I get that everyone is different and what works for some may be a nightmare for others, but if you've not been able to tolerate any other brands I'd give Yaz a try."

• kla...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 26, 2020

For Birth Control "Seriously, beware of this birth control. I was on Yaz for about two years, and the negative side effects of this pill are never-ending. This birth control caused me to go into a deep depression for the entire duration I was on it. I was on and off anti-depressants trying to combat the negative effects and ultimately got to the point where I was completely anti-social and so anxious/depressed that I was skin and bones. It even got to the point where I was having suicidal thoughts on a regular basis. Once my doctor determined these all may have been side effects of Yaz (not sure why it took so long for my doctor to realize this, but that's another conversation), I stopped taking it, and within 24 hours, nearly all of the negative side effects were gone. Crazy! Long story short, this birth control literally ruined my life for two years. I highly recommend avoiding this unless there is some specific circumstance that causes this birth control to be your only option."

• Bos...
• November 11, 2015

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I am 21 and have been taking the pill since the age of 16. Two years ago, I began to take Yaz after severe mood swings, depression, and overwhelming sadness and anger due to PMDD. Yaz has been a lifesaver for me! I don't have cramps, my period lasts 3 days at most and is very light (not even enough to warrant the use of a tampon), and my skin is perfectly clear, with the exception of 2 pimples a month around menstruation. But the absolute best part is my mood! I became ME again, a happy, easy-going person who doesn't pick fights with her boyfriend over burnt spaghetti noodles ;)"

• Bos...
• November 11, 2015

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I am 21 and have been taking the pill since the age of 16. Two years ago, I began to take Yaz after severe mood swings, depression, and overwhelming sadness and anger due to PMDD. Yaz has been a lifesaver for me! I don't have cramps, my period lasts 3 days at most and is very light (not even enough to warrant the use of a tampon), and my skin is perfectly clear, with the exception of 2 pimples a month around menstruation. But the absolute best part is my mood! I became ME again, a happy, easy-going person who doesn't pick fights with her boyfriend over burnt spaghetti noodles ;)"

• sdu...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 17, 2023

For Birth Control "I remember reading all kinds of mixed reviews before starting this pill and was kind of worried. I have taken many brands of birth control pills in the past, but I always experienced spotting, and I was fed up. My doctor put me on Yaz, and it changed my entire life… for the worst. Although the spotting and the physical side effects went away, the negative change it had on my mood and my personality was awful. I suffered from anxiety and depression my entire life, but it was always manageable. After starting the pill, I experienced SEVERE anxiety and depression. My mood was always bad, I was always upset and anxious, I would have random outbursts over absolutely nothing. I was an emotional wreck, and I couldn’t control myself at all. I’ve been off of it for 6 days now, and I’m back to my normal self again."

• Anonymous
• June 24, 2011

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I had horrible PMDD that lasted 2 weeks every month that translates into half of my life. During PMDD, I suffered from depression, fatigue, and mood swings. I was a completely different person. It interfered with my work, and I was calling in sick at least every other month. I am convinced my boss thought I was faking illness because of the frequency of calling in sick, and I never 'sounded' sick. Anyway, thanks to Yaz, my life has changed so much for the better. Sometimes I will have a little PMS mood swing, but nothing like before. My energy and moods stay consistent through the month now. It is wonderful to feel back in control of my emotions. Thanks, Yaz."

• Sha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 15, 2018

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "Taking Yaz for 6 months now, and it's been life-changing. The anger, depression, and anxiety have decreased tenfold. I am taking the brand and forking over that $$$ every month. Fearful to take the generic and go through the symptoms again. Anyone else have good experiences with the generic Yaz?"

• ECa...
• October 31, 2018

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "Around my 20s, I started having depression, rage, general apathy, and anxiety. It didn't occur to me for years that these symptoms were due to PMDD. I started taking Yaz at 36, and I'm now 43 and have just stopped taking it due to mineral deficiencies detected while checking my bloodwork for something else. Yaz was working for me. No more horrible mood swings, my relationship is better, my skin cleared up. It was great! Now, I have anxiety attacks, depression, it's much easier to gain weight, and I now have increased blood pressure, and my pulse is elevated at rest. Yaz literally saved my life for years, but now, I'm taking natural supplements for mood/mental health, thyroid, and mineral support. Your heart is nothing to play with. If you are taking this for acne only, then don't. Yaz was designed for women who suffer from PMDD; if you don't already have it, then this particular pill may cause symptoms of it. I use Proactiv, and it works like a champ. Good luck to all of you and be well."

• sar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 10, 2019

For Birth Control "I started using Yaz to treat my PCOS and excess facial hair growth. I always felt depressed, but I kind of dealt with it, it wasn't that bad until I started taking this pill. First, I was crying every night for no reason. I had terrible headaches (something that never happened to me before), and my anxiety and depression are at their highest. I'm having really dark thoughts, and I'm so scared because I think I will hurt myself or my family. And don't get me started on obsessive thoughts, they make me hate myself. Do not take this pill for any reason!"

• Gis...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 26, 2020

For Birth Control "I have been taking Yaz for about a year now. My skin has cleared, and my periods often skip for months at a time, and when they do come, they are just spotting (I wanted to take Yaz to regulate my period). Over the past 6 months, near the end of my packet has been something I dread, I become very emotional and depressed. I often have a hard time getting out of bed, feeling unmotivated, and have many self-deprecating thoughts. It honestly scares me. When I am not nearing the end of my pack, I am myself, bubbly and energetic, and constantly moving. I will be looking for a replacement and want anyone thinking about taking Yaz to be aware of any mood changes. While there are some positive replies here, there are many negative ones, and make sure you are using something that is truly benefiting you more than hurting you. Wishing everyone the best!"

• Vic...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• February 19, 2019

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "Best thing ever. Lifesaver. Game changer. I tried other BC but had the worst PMS (PMDD) - heavy, painful periods, depression, anxiety, and acne, which would lead to skin infections/inflamed skin for 2-3 weeks; I was miserable all month. Once I began taking Yaz, it felt like a veil lifted. Horrible PMS became a thing of the past. Physically, my boobs maybe went up a cup, and my skin cleared up. My periods weren’t as heavy or painful. I didn’t have as much of a sex drive, but for me, being sane was worth the trade-off. For me, the brand name worked best. Hands down."

• Tan...
• September 29, 2019

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I took this for one week, and it almost killed me (literally), and I am still trying to fix a relationship. The doctor prescribed it for me to help with PMDD. Within a day, I was nauseated at even the thought of food. I couldn't eat the whole week without throwing up or dry heaving. I had chest pains that felt like a heart attack. It also made me extremely paranoid (hence the relationship fixing). I spent two days with a migraine so bad I was eating Excedrin like candy. I contacted my doctor to say I was not taking it anymore, and she gave me excuses to keep going with it. She told me I needed to get used to it. That night, I found myself laying in bed seriously depressed. I've never been so low in my life. I immediately contacted a friend to talk to me until I fell asleep. I didn't trust myself. And my doctor wanted me to adjust to it for a couple of months? PMDD sucks, but I'll take that any day over the week that almost ended my life."

• acn...
• April 22, 2009

For Acne "I am thankful to Yaz. Within a few days, it cleared up my skin just as I hoped, but I did not expect it to work so fast. My chest has gotten a lot bigger, but other than that, I have not gained any weight. I seem to have lost my appetite as well, which makes it easier to make healthier food choices. Also, I seem to have more mood swings and am a little more depressed."

• deb...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 14, 2020

For Acne "I only took Yaz for 1 month and 1 week and had to stop due to an explosion of pimples on my cheeks and jawline that I never had before, along with severe pelvic and leg pain and severe depression. My hair was also falling out like crazy. I am now 1 week without birth control, and my mood has increased substantially, and all of the side effects went away. Yaz also made me get a yeast infection on my face, resulting in my breaking out in red, bumpy, itchy, burning hives all over my face, making the acne look worse than it actually was. I am now on steroids for the infection, along with an antibiotic for the acne (Bactrim), which I have taken before, and waiting for these to kick in as I’ve only been on them for a week. Moral of the story: Yaz wrecked my face."

• Mer...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 7, 2018

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I've been taking Yaz for almost a year now, and I am very, very happy with it. I have pre-existing mental health diagnoses that were extremely exacerbated by PMDD. About 10 days before my period, I would become absolutely dead exhausted, severely depressed, with constant muscle and joint soreness, and terrible cramps and heavy bleeding during menstruation. All these symptoms are almost eliminated after taking Yaz. As an added 'plus,' most months I don't get my period AT ALL, which is a real blessing. The only thing I wish would work for me is the acne reduction... I still struggle with the cystic, hormonal acne, and Yaz doesn't seem to have helped that. STILL, if you struggle with PMDD, Yaz is definitely worth a try!"

• lan...
• November 14, 2019

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I've been struggling to find a pill that works for me for ages. I get anxiety about getting side effects like weight gain and depression, as I have experienced them before on Levlin and Yasmin. The doc suggested Yaz due to its lower dose. I have had minimal side effects so far and feel pretty great on it, except that I have been bleeding for the past 2 months. Sometimes it's really light (spotting) and others not so much. I'm hoping that if I wait it out, my periods will become more regular. After hearing so many negative comments about Yaz, I asked my doc about the blood clots, and she said that all pills increase the risk of blood clots and that it's just because Yaz is a newer pill, it's getting more attention. Also, you are at a much, much higher risk of getting a blood clot if you are pregnant. Everyone's hormones are different, so if this pill works for you, then great, if not, then try another one."

• mta...
• April 12, 2009

For Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "I have been on Yaz for a month, and I feel like a different person. I lost 7 lbs of water weight in two weeks, friends and family have noticed how much better I look. I went on Yaz because of severe PMS, which included serious bloating and abdominal heaviness, constipation, depression, fatigue, and irritability to the point where I had been hardly able to leave the house the week before my period. I have energy again now. I'm not feeling terrible half of every month. The only side effect for me has been a thicker, heavier white discharge. I would recommend this to anyone with bad PMS. I love Yaz."

• mol...
• October 18, 2014

For Acne "I am almost finished with my first pack of Yaz. At first, my acne seemed to be going away, but now it's just getting worse. My cheeks are all red and splotchy. I have huge cystic breakouts on my chin. I have tried everything to make my acne go away. It's gotten to the point where I feel so depressed, and it's all I think about. I'm hoping after a couple more weeks it will start to improve a bit because right now it is terrible!"

• Che...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 4, 2014

For Acne "I've been taking Yaz for three months for adult acne that was unresponsive to just about every skincare, formulation, medication, cream, and makeup on the market. I had tried everything but the pill (Yaz) for several years due to becoming depressed and irritable on other contraceptive pills previously. This is the only thing that has worked! I'm so happy. The first six weeks made my skin much, much worse, but now I'm clear for the first time in years. My breasts are fuller also, which is a bonus."