Xulane and Headaches: What Users Say

• Rin...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 10, 2020

For Birth Control "I've currently been on the patch for 1 year now, after switching from the Nexplanon implant, and I really like it. No spotting or bleeding in between periods, no weight gain, no mood swings, no problems with the patch falling off, no pregnancy scares, my periods are lighter & more predictable, etc. But I do notice I will get headaches & slight nausea when I change patches, but it is bearable. I definitely don't plan on changing birth control methods anytime soon, Xulane works pretty well for me."

• May...
• January 31, 2020

For Birth Control "I’m 5’2” and weigh 100 lbs. When I first got on the patch, I had all the starting symptoms: nausea, I was tired a lot, headaches - generally feeling like rubbish. However, these symptoms gradually went away in about two cycles. I haven’t really had problems using the patch. Yes, when you take the patch off and put it back on the following your patch-free week, you’re gonna feel a little off til the hormones regulate again. Similar instances can occur when you go straight to the next patch without a break up on the patch (which is totally safe, I used to do it all the time), but go away shortly after. I have only had ONE instance of breakthrough bleeding on this patch. Honestly, I feel it was due to a lot of stress in my personal life, as I have NEVER experienced it before in the whole year I’d been on it. The patch is great if you use it correctly. The side effects are generally short-term, and it’s very effective (my partner and I never use condoms, and I haven’t gotten pregnant on this BC)."

• Dar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 4, 2021

For Birth Control "I had an awful experience with this patch. I started to use it last month. In 3 days, I felt something very wrong. At first, I thought it was a stomach virus. My head was spinning. Then I got really nauseated and puked for like 5 hours. Had to sleep it off. So I thought it was a stomach virus, but I took the patch off just in case. I decided to wait until yesterday when I started my period again to give it one more try. I was fine all day yesterday, then today I began to get a slight headache, then I got woozy again. Tried to just pull through the nausea. As soon as I got to work, I puked all over the parking lot when I got out of my car. I just can't do it. I took the patch off and threw it down because that will be the last time I give it a try. My body is just rejecting it for some reason. I was getting like a bile build-up. I have been burping all day both times I tried it. My head is still spinning. It is just not for me."

• Not...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 29, 2020

For Birth Control "I hated this thing. I had used different pills before I had my son, and after, I tried the shot. The shot made me start gaining weight, so I wanted to try something different. I wore the patch two weeks, and then I had to stop using it. The first few days were fine, and then I started getting nauseous. By the second week, I kept throwing up. I was very moody and cried for no reason. I legit thought I was pregnant between the mood swings and nausea. Two days after taking it off, I ended up in the ER because I started having blurry vision and my heart was racing. When I got to the ER, my heart rate was 148, but my vision started coming back. The only thing the doctors could figure was I had an ocular migraine caused by the hormones in the patch. The next day, I started my period, and I keep getting headaches. I’ve never had migraines or headaches before, so I’m hoping this will get out of my system fast and I’ll be back to normal."

• Lal...
• October 21, 2016

For Birth Control "I have been on Xulane for about 7 months now, and I absolutely love it! At first, yes, it is horrible while the body is adjusting to it. There are constant headaches and what look like signs of early pregnancy, but after a while, it works perfectly! It's worth the beginning experience. I have noticed that my breasts grew rounder and fuller, no acne, no vaginal dryness, predictable periods, light periods, low cramping, and best of all, no unplanned children!"

• Meg...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 14, 2020

For Birth Control "I have been on Xulane for almost 2 months. The first month was great, and I had no problems. As soon as I put my 4th patch on to skip my period, I started spotting. My Dr. said that is normal. But after putting on my 5th patch, it was almost like I had morning sickness. I had nausea, headache, feeling as if I was going to puke all the time, and certain smells would get me also. And during all of this, I was still bleeding, not super heavy but more than spotting. I also have had PMS since I've been bleeding. On my 7th patch, I started bleeding quite heavily and started having such bad cramps that I couldn’t move. I am still bleeding currently. I think this would be a great option for some people. I really wish it worked for me."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 25, 2020

For Birth Control "I've been on Xulane for almost a year now. When I first started it, I was scared of symptoms and weight gain because this is the first birth control I've ever tried, but I have had a pretty good experience. Pretty bad headaches the first few months, but I rarely get headaches now. It doesn't make my period shorter or anything, but it has helped a little bit with cramps. Before BC, I used to get so sick I would throw up, but I haven't had that issue since starting. I haven't had any bleeding or spotting in between. I was thinking about switching to Cryselle, which is a pill, but the reviews were so horrible, so I think I am gonna stay with the patch for a while. I have enjoyed being on this, and I haven't gained any weight. Also, have not gotten pregnant."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 28, 2021

For Birth Control "Used this for two days during the first day of my period, I had pulsing headaches, nausea, and throwing up for about two hours. I have to get off of the patch because my headaches became unbearable after the second day. All my symptoms have disappeared. Thank you to all the women who left reviews, this patch has really nasty side effects, wouldn't recommend."

• Hon...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 14, 2016

For Birth Control "I started the Xulane patch two months ago. I have to say that it has been a great experience so far. I myself read through these reviews before starting the patch, and I was terrified of the experience I would have. I have not gained any weight. I have not had migraines or even mild headaches. The patch does not itch, nor does it leave a rash or any type of bump. It does leave a residue on the outer ring from where it catches your clothing and collects fuzz. I have not experienced any nausea. It has been smooth sailing. My period is drastically lighter, and I don't get ill or experience extreme cramps. I have to say I'm a huge fan of the patch. It has even increased my sex drive because I feel so comfortable now that I have it."

• Col...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 5, 2019

For Birth Control "Before I started the Xulane patch, I was on the pill (Tri-Sprintec Birth Control) was horrible! I kept having vaginal problems that became very uncomfortable. And also vaginal dryness as well before I got on the pill, I didn’t have those problems. I was always feeling depressed and sad and also feeling like I was going to lose my mind!!! I hated this birth control, so I switched to the patch. When I first started on the patch, I was very happy. I love that I can change the patch weekly and I also can skip periods! My periods don’t be as heavy as they used to be, though. But the cons are I do cramp at the bottom of my stomach from time to time. I also have bad headaches. My breasts just started becoming very sore, and I sometimes feel very tired. Sometimes I feel as though I’m pregnant when I’m not."

• Sic...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 22, 2017

For Birth Control "I would not recommend this birth control to my worst enemy. I have had terrible headaches, arm and stomach pain, and nausea. I stopped the patch as soon as I started throwing up while driving in my car. I am thinking about going to the ER, it has been almost 2 hours, and I still cannot stop vomiting. This is the worst pain ever. I regret ever using this patch. It is worse than the pills."

• Sha...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 23, 2019

For Birth Control "I have been on Xulane for almost 3 years now. I tried the pill and would forget to take it. So, my doctor prescribed the patch! It has worked perfectly! Every once in a while, I’ll get a minor headache, but nothing other than that. I wear it on my lower abdomen and switch sides every week. I would recommend it to any woman that doesn’t want to get pregnant right now."

• Rac...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 15, 2020

For Birth Control "I took the Xulane patch because I wanted another option for birth control. This was the worst. I put the patch on a Sunday, and by Sunday night, I was having an extreme headache, and on Monday morning, I was violently vomiting uncontrollably. I took the patch off and felt fine for the rest of the day despite a horrible headache for the rest of the day and the next day. I switched back to a new pill (Lo Loestrin), and I love it. No side effects so far, and very happy with it."

• Jes...
• October 20, 2016

For Birth Control "This medication works great. My cycle has never been regular, but on this, I can pinpoint the day I start and end my cycle. I do get headaches the first day I put on my new patch, so I just take Advil as a preventive, and that seems to do the job most of the time. This does help control acne as well, and I have not experienced any weight gain, and I have used it for over a year and a half. The patch site can itch, but my skin seemed to get used to it after a month or so. I use it on my lower back above my pant line and switch sides weekly. This seems to be the best spot, except when I get asked what it is. Lol! I was on the Depo shot for a year and absolutely hated it, and can't remember to take a pill daily, so this is a great alternative."

• Hap...
• July 13, 2017

For Birth Control "I have been on Xulane for 3 months now, and I love it. Before I started, my periods were bad, with headaches, cramping, and heavy flow. After the first month, my periods dwindled, and now I only need light pads, I rarely cramp and have maybe one headache. However, I do get some redness and irritation on my skin, trouble with the patch adhering to my skin, and also my eating habits have changed dramatically. Sometimes I'll be starving, and when I see what I'm about to eat, I lose any urge to eat. I would recommend it, but be sure you remain aware of your body."

• Nik...
• December 15, 2019

For Birth Control "I’ve gone on the Xulane patch 2 separate times. I have horrible periods, and I’m also diagnosed with PMDD, so it is important that I stay on birth control. I’ve tried the Depo shot, I bled for 9 months straight and was constantly depressed. I tried a box or two of the patches and had no side effects or irregular bleeding. I was then on the extended-cycle pill, so I had no periods for 3 months at a time, and I loved it! Until one day, I started bleeding and didn’t stop for two months. So I got back on the patch, and I’ve been on it for about 2 months now. I’ve never had irregular bleeding or severe PMDD symptoms on the patch. The only con I’ve experienced is acne breakouts-under wherever the patch was placed, and also on my face and on my body. It isn’t bad, though. My periods are much easier, despite getting headaches. Overall, my favorite form of birth control. No birth control is fun, but the patch makes it easy."

• JPH...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• August 8, 2018

For Birth Control "Some reviews said that it comes off in the water, but I have not had this happen. You have to make sure there is no lotion or soap residue on the area before you put it on. Also, I always wipe the area clean with rubbing alcohol before I apply to ensure a tight hold. And if I place it in my pelvic area, I shave first, wipe with alcohol, and press firmly. I go swimming all the time for hours at a time, and it has never fallen off. I've had no side effects, especially with my sex drive or vaginal lubrication. No headaches or nausea for me. I feel absolutely normal, even with having hypothyroidism, which impacts different hormones, I don't feel any side effects. I always recommend this to my friends. It's much easier than remembering to take a pill and safer for me than an IUD. I say everyone should try it for themselves rather than be scared off by other people's bad experiences."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 21, 2016

For Birth Control "I did a review on Xulane 8 months ago. I was taking the Ortho Evra patch and had to switch to Xulane due to it being discontinued. When I did my review, I was on the patch for 1 month. The patch is still very convenient. Increase in sex drive, no vaginal dryness, and light periods - no cramping. I am starting to get headaches for the past month. Seeing it's a side effect of this medication (never got them before), hoping they go away. Other than that, no complaints."

• Liz...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 11, 2017

For Birth Control "Have been taking Xulane for about 8 months, it's been great. Spotting during the first two months, tired with some increase in appetite until my body adjusted. I do notice mild headaches during days (1-2 times per week). Of course, breasts are swollen, which isn't a terrible side effect. I've had no nausea, no weight gain, and my mood seems more balanced. I have a history of depression and have not had any issues outside of baseline while using Xulane. I have fewer PMS symptoms - less depressed, less irritable, don't want to run people over then cry because I'm a horrible person for thinking that :/ It's been very effective."

• mad...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 16, 2019

For Birth Control "This Xulane patch caused issues because whoever makes it sucks at quality control. I’ve gotten multiple patches that aren’t as sticky as they should be, and they’re not expired and have never been opened. I can’t just go to the pharmacy to replace them whenever this happens. This Sunday was the last straw, I’m getting an IUD. I went to change my patch and the new patch wasn’t sticky at all, it came off immediately. I had nothing on my skin. I opened the only other patch I have, and the same thing, so I’m done. It also made my cramps more painful and last much longer, and it gave me major headaches, sometimes migraines. I didn’t gain weight, but sometimes the patch would itch to the point where I’d accidentally scratch myself to bleeding."

• mam...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 9, 2019

For Birth Control "I started Xulane a couple of months ago. I immediately started to get the worst headaches, nausea, gained lots of weight, and my boobs grew significantly in size and are sore constantly. I’ve been on my period for 40 days with heavy flow and unbearable back pain and cramps. Some days I can’t even get out of bed without taking large amounts of pain medication."

• Sad...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 3, 2019

For Birth Control "So I went to my OB on Monday for my yearly checkup, asked to get on the patch contraceptive! Thinking it won’t be as bad because I was not ingesting it, whereas before I took the pill, it was bad reactions! So she told me I was going to spot for Monday because she did the test! Well, it’s Wednesday, and I’m still spotting. Little did I know this can do that! Monday night, I felt off, I’m like, new meds, gotta get used to it. Tuesday came, and the nausea started slowly creeping in, so I’m like, okay, then the nervousness started, so I took my anxiety meds. Helped a little. Today I woke up after sleeping 6-9 hours, exhausted, nausea, headache, boobs hurting, so by mid-afternoon I was feeling better. By 7 pm, I thought I was dying, felt like I had a fever and sweating, and just couldn’t handle it! After reading up on it, I took it off. I cannot go on for the next 1-3 months like this, so if you have a sensitivity to medications or have had troubles with birth control, I do not recommend this at all."

• Jul...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 17, 2018

For Birth Control "I used to take Ortho Evra when I was younger and was completely fine on it. I thought I would have a similar experience on Xulane. I ended up with severe mood swings, depression, and anxiety, to the point of crying every day for weeks. I had low libido, was tired all the time, my vision became blurry, I lost my appetite, I had severe headaches, and loss of balance. I’d wake up in the middle of the night from sweating so much. I tried to let my body get used to the high amount of hormones in this product, but I couldn’t take it anymore. I didn’t feel like myself, and it was affecting my marriage. I am now making an appointment with my doctor to see what other options are out there. I’m happy this drug has worked for some of you ladies, but I would be careful if it starts affecting your mental health like it did mine. I feel relieved not being on it anymore."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 6, 2017

For Birth Control "This is the third time I am submitting a review for Xulane. I was approaching 1 year using this patch, but discontinued it this past Friday. Over the past 6 months, I have had high blood pressure readings (extremely high). The only change I have made over the past year is switching from Ortho Evra to Xulane. My doctor thinks this is causing my high blood pressure. Not only that, but I have been having headaches, which I never had prior to taking this patch. Not sure if anyone else has had an increase in blood pressure since they started this patch? I hoped I was not the only one. Anyone else?"

• Hay...
• December 21, 2016

For Birth Control "My first time starting any kind of birth control (just to regulate my period, not really as a contraceptive), and I could only last halfway through my third week. The increase in anxiety, depression, along with the pregnancy-like symptoms, were debilitating. I just took my patch off today because I couldn't take it anymore. I have terrible gastrointestinal problems, feel sore and tender, dizzy, have headaches, and the worst part is the nausea. It's been gradually increasing since I started and has finally gotten to the point where I can't leave my bed. My first patch fell off after three days, so I put a new one on my thigh instead of my side, and that made it not come off anymore, but the mix of mood swings and painful symptoms are too much."