Yaz birth control is an oral contraceptive containing drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, two synthetic forms of progesterone and estrogen hormones. Yaz has also been prescribed to treat women who suffer from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a condition identified by severe depression, irritability and other severe debilitating symptoms before menstruation. As with any medication, Yaz has the potential for side effects.
Common Side Effects
Some women may experience several mild, harmless side effects while the body adjusts to the hormones in Yaz. Drugs.com reports these common side effects to be breast pain, breast tenderness or swelling, freckles or darkening of facial skin, increased hair growth or loss of scalp hair, changes in weight or appetite, swelling of your hands or feet, problems with corrective contact lenses, vaginal discomfort or discharge, and/or changes to the menstrual period. Other effects may include spotting between periods, lack of menstruation, acne and temporary infertility after discontinuing the use of Yaz.
More Serious Side Effects
Women who experience other, less-common side effects should report the symptoms to a medical professional, according to RxList.com. Potential side effects, identified by Drugs.com, include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, pain or pressure behind the eyes, pain in the chest, pain that spreads to the arm or shoulder, nausea, perspiration, migraine headaches, abdominal pain, appetite changes, yellowing of the eyes or skin, lump(s) in the breast, mood disorders or changes like depression, insomnia or difficulty sleeping.
Women who suffer from specific health concerns should avoid using Yaz to prevent serious complications, RxList.com suggests. Examples of these health concerns include elevated blood pressure, migraine headaches, past experience of stroke or blood clot, existing kidney or liver disease, abnormal vaginal bleeding and/or a history of jaundice caused by birth control pill usage.
Signs of Allergy
In some cases an allergy to the ingredients in Yaz may cause a serious reaction. These side effects require immediate medical attention, RxList.com suggests. Allergic reaction may include hives, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, swelling of the lips or tongue and/or a blueish discoloration to the skin.
