Comparing Apri vs Junel Fe 1 / 20

For Birth Control Was put on this because of PCOS, did exactly what it was supposed to do. Got my period exactly every 28 days, no major side effects except for weight gain (part of which I blame for starting college at the same time). Didn't gain weight at first, then I gained 10-15lbs, and overall I gained 35-40lbs. It wasn't easy to lose the weight on this either, even with diet and regular exercise.

For Birth Control I've jumped around to many birth control pills through the years - some landed me in the hospital with severe blinding abdominal pain, some made me suicidal, and some made me nauseous. This is the first one that did not do that so I was thrilled. It also bettered my severe cystic hormonal acne to only about a blemish or two a month. However, it absolutely killed every ounce of my sex drive which used to be high and healthy. That's been very frustrating. Otherwise, okay pill.

For Birth Control Everyones body is different, but I would not recommend this pill. My sex drive became COMPLETELY nonexistent while on Junel- to the point were I was starting to question my sexuality in general. Unneeded stress was put on my long term relationship and was very difficult for my boyfriend to understand. I know this might not be a concern for everyone, but know that this may be a very real side-effect for you on Junel and if this affect you the same then DON'T USE JUNEL. Some pros for me: I never experienced weight gain on the pill or any acne issues. Cons: sex drive gone, irregular periods (even being on this pill for more that a year), more aggressive mood. I got off this pill as soon as I could and now have an IUD.

For Birth Control I had mild water retention (about 5lbs), moderate bloating with abdominal pain, and persistent diarrhea while taking this pill. The first few days of taking Junel I had nausea, vertigo, and blurred vision. The nausea and visions problems disappeared within three days, but the other side effects continued with use. I was taking this for endometriosis to try and help relieve my cramps. I was disappointed because instead of having pain only the first couple of days of my period, I was left with daily abdominal pain and then my period pains were definitely elevated (from and 8 to a 9 on my pain scale). I'm off this pill now, though, because I experienced migraine with aura.