Yasmin (Yaz), manufactured by Bayer, is an oral contraceptive that is also used to treat acne and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).  Yasmin contains estrogen and progestin which prevents ovulation and therefore pregnancy.  Although yasmin is the most popular form or oral contraception, it has been linked to a number of side effects.  Yasmin side effects include liver dysfunction, hypertension (high blood pressure), breast cancer, stroke, heart attack, blood clots, pulmonary embolism, kidney and gall bladder dysfunction.  The hormone progestin is in the form of drospirenone and is known to increase potassium levels in some patients.  Excessively high potassium levels can lead to heart attack, arrhythmias, deep vein thrombosis and stroke.  

You not only need to pay attention to yasmin side effects but the fact that the manufacturer Bayer overstated the benefits of yasmin drawing your attention away from the potential side effects.  In fact, consumers filed a number of law suits against Bayer for yasmin side effects.  Back in 2009, the FDA warned Bayer that they had sent inferior quality batches of yasmin to physicians and pharmacies.  Some 33,000 boxes of yasmin were recalled due to improper manufacturing.

The most common yasmin side effects reported by healthcare providers and patients and that are believed to be yasmin related include the following:

• nausea, vomiting not unlike morning sickness
• abdominal cramping, bloating
• breakthrough bleeding, spotting
• amenorrhea (excessive menstrual bleeding)
• infertility after discontinuation of yasmin, temporary
• water retention (edema)
• melasma, brown pigment spots on skin which may persist and get worse
• tenderness of the breast with possible secretion
• weight changes
• changes in cervical erosion and secretion
• less milk production postpartum
• jaundice

• migraine
• allergic rash
• depression
• carbohydrate intolerance
• chronic yeast infections, vaginal and systemic
• change in corneal curvature
• intolerance to contact lenses
• urinary tract infections
• acne

Severe allergic reactions have been rarely reported with the use of yasmin.  If you experience rash, hives, itching, breathing problems, chest pain, swelling of the face, mouth, lips, tongue or throat contact your healthcare provider and seek immediate medical attention for anaphylaxis.  If you develop a breast lump, calf or leg pain (deep vein thrombosis), coughing up blood, arrhythmia or fainting spells, contact your healthcare provider immediately.  Any of these symptoms may be a sign of yasmin side effects.    If you experience dizziness, persistent migraine, slurred speech, confusion, vision loss or double vision, or rapid mood changes, contact your doctor as soon as possible.  These neurological symptoms have been reported when taking yasmin.  Watch out for yellowing of the skin and eyes as these are symptoms of severe liver dysfunction.

There are many different kinds of birth control methods.  Make sure to do your homework and find out what is best for you and your body.  Oral contraceptives may be convenient but you still need to consider adverse side effects which may become permanent depending on any medical issues you may have.