Yaz and Mircette are birth control pills used to prevent pregnancy. However, Drugs.com indicates that Yaz can also be used to treat manifestations of premenstrual dysmorphic disorder, a condition characterized by depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, headaches and weight gain.
Features
Both Yaz and Mircette are oral contraceptive pills containing female hormones. Both contain the hormone ethinyl estradiol; Yaz also contains the hormone drospirenone, and Mircette also contains desogestrel.
Function
Drugs.com says that both birth control pills work to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). They also alter the thickness of the uterine lining and cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to fertilize the egg.
Side Effects
Both Yaz and Mircette can cause breast pain or tenderness, changes in appetite and weight, skin-darkening (melasma), freckle formation, menstrual irregularities, and vaginal pain or discharge. Drugs.com indicates that Mircette may also cause nausea, vomiting, bloating and stomach cramping.
Use
Take one Yaz or Mircette pill starting on the first day of your menstrual period or the first Sunday after your menstrual period.
Warning
Do not take Yaz or Mircette if you have a history of blood clots, bleeding disorders, breast cancer or uterine cancer. Also, do not smoke when you take these oral contraceptives, especially if you are older than 35 years old, to avoid a heightened risk for developing blood clots.
