Chatty GRWM | Periods, Hormones, When The Pill Doesn't Work | Lucy Moon

[@melaniemurphyofficial]

This was so enjoyable and interesting to me, I've had so many similar experiences ahh! That's something I REALLY wish more people were educated on too - how different pills give different results and side effects to each individual - thank you so much for bringing light to that for yo viewerz lady!

[@niamhwilliams1041]

Melanie Murphy would you do a video on your experiences?💛

[@lucymoon]

+Melanie Murphy thanks hon! You very much inspired this chat so thank you for being so up front about this kind of stuff with your audience 💕

[@Mslovelyxxx]

Being an Irish girl living in england i find that the irish are much more aware of being able to change the pill than the British (maybe because we pay in ireland?). Everyone of my friends back home have gone on at least 3 different pills, people here don't believe me when i say you should change to find the right balance

[@pauliinepoldmaa3750]

Melanie Murphy moim

[@cinemoni]

funny you post this today because yesterday i got my period during a music festival, fainted, threw up, curled up in a ball in pain until it passed... periods truly suck.

[@melissamoussa5596]

A little bit of Monika omg i hope you're doing well and im a girl so i understand but that's extreme

[@eleya11]

A little bit of Monika That sucks! My periods were like that too for many years and the pills I tried didn't change it. I'm taking Dong Quai now (an ancient Chinese herb) and I don't have any problems whatsoever! It balances out your menstruation naturally.

[@tinystories6459]

oh that sounds truly awful, and I can really relate to it. I suffer from endometriosis, don't know if you've heard of it but it's really common. I used to be in sooo much pain until I got help, so I just felt the need to maybe share if that might be it for you as well? I wish someone had told me about it earlier, and just don't want anyone to suffer for as long as I did, when there is help to be found💫

[@toy.o]

It’s so typical I ALWAYS and I mean always get my period during concerts or anytime I’m doing something exiting it’s so annoying! x

[@lilymacbeth762]

anyone else at that stage when you can't tell if your hormones are bad or your mental health is bad?

[@carlydrooff6580]

Lily Macbeth I highly recommend coming off the pill (from personal experience) for at least a few months and then seeing how you feel 🌸 hang in there

[@julianamonsalve2919]

Lily Macbeth I understand exactly what you mean

[@emilyboelle8724]

amen

[@leeelieooo]

YES. I've been in such a bad place mentally the last year and I honestly don't know what to make of it. As far as I can remember I felt better when I had a break from the pill 2 years ago. But I don't know, I had mental health issues before I even started taking the pill as well.... Ugh

[@lilymacbeth762]

Carly Drooff I'm not on any type of hormonal medication, which makes me wonder if I should start a course of medication? However, I am worried about the psychological effects of relying on medication :/

[@marydarko3380]

I always cry before my period, my anxiety gets worse, i don't experience cramps or anything. it's just the hormones that go out of control

[@keyholes]

"It was like my womanhood just exploded out of me." That's the most accurate description of a period I've ever read. (For a cis lady, obviously, I imagine it's completely different for nb and trans folks.

[@CoidyUK]

keyholes what exactly is a cis lady

[@HeidiBidels]

Elysium someone who was born with a vagina and identifies as female

[@ebow35]

On the topic of periods, I would like to recommend menstrual cups to everyone because they have changed my life! You can leave them in for as long as you want, they hold a lot more than tampons, they're much better for the environment and I actually find that my cramps are less painful :) Loved the vid x

[@Handleshmandle1]

Although I love my mooncup and find it so more comfortable than the dryness of a tampon, for me the second I put it in it makes my cramps worse :( but I'd never go back to tampons now!

[@jrniels]

These are great and very calming.

[@jrniels]

Sorry about all the hormone stuff though, sounds awful.

[@applet4rts639]

Ikr, I love them

[@WatermelonYoshi]

I have really painful cramps on my period that lasts for at least a week, I throw up, sleep all day and cancel all plans because I can't find comfort. I started using an extended birth control where I only get a period 4 times a year, so at the end of every 3 months! it's great and I love it and not having to have a period every month saves me!! I recommend people to try and find it if you suffer badly from periods !!!

[@Lu-nj9ec]

Willow Bays yeah same! I actually take it through without even one break, and I've been told that this is so bad and I should immediately stop but other people say its totally fine and won't make a difference... Sigh I just hope that someday I can live pain free without being dependent on a medication

[@kayla2309]

I love chatty GRWMs from you (:

[@justemilyelizabeth]

That looks like the comfiest jumper, yaaaasass Lucy!

[@averysmallmushroom3614]

It's interesting you commented about the "hormonal depression" you experienced when you were 16. I started my period when I was 10, but only recently (I'm 17) have I noticed that the week before and the week of my period, I become extremely self-conscience and down, similar to what you described. I've never had to be on the pill, luckily, but still get this. If you are a young lady about to start her period, or even have had their period for a few years, just be aware that sometimes this happens. Especially before the period starts, weirdly enough. Basically, keep your mental health in check when it gets close to your period, ladies. Keep care of yourself. :)

[@rominamartiniello6271]

Hi Lucy, love your videos! I can relate to many of the symptoms you've spoken about here. From the age of 18 to 22 I was on the pill as prescribed by my doctor, without much advice or instruction at all. I was on Yasmin for 2 years, but found that it didn't help with my period symptoms much despite clearing my skin - it was also insanely expensive (I'm from Australia so I'm not sure how the costs of the pill differ around the world). I then went on Celeste for 2 years and found it to be much better, my period symptoms calmed down and my skin was ok. I did continue to slowly put on weight and just generally feel more and more 'zestless' as time went on. After turning 22 I decided to go vegan, for ethical reasons but also in an attempt to address all my digestive issues which caused constant bloating among many other uncomfortable things. About 6 months after going vegan and my digestive issues having improved a lot, I decided to stop taking the pill. I didn't really know why I was taking it anymore - my periods weren't bad but they weren't great and I personally wasn't using it as a method of contraception. I had also read a lot about the potential risk and long term damage and wanted to know what it felt like to have a 'natural period'. So I stopped taking it, and while my body went into a proper 5 month detox period, I am SO GLAD I persisted through it. I dealt with crappy skin and weird period symptoms for about 5 months and at times was very tempted to go back to the pill. My friend stopped taking her pill at the same time and broke out into fully blown cystic acne all over her face, I had it mostly on my cheeks. This all cleared and our bodies settled after about 4-5 months. I attribute going vegan and stopping the pill to the fact that I now have a stress free period and no hormonal acne, aside from a couple of pimples that pop up the week before I get my period. I never dreamed that my period could be as simple as it is now. I used to bleed quite a bit and was constantly paranoid about leaking everywhere. My flow is far less now and I no longer need to take days off work due to intense pain or feeling really really down. In the last 6 months I've also switched to using a menstrual cup which has made things ever more manageable - something I never thought I would be into! I have even weened myself off of ibuprofen and other drugs to deal with any cramping I still get. I take an evening primrose oil supplement everyday and drink pure ginger tea (just ginger powder and water) during my period and it relieves any of the symptoms I still have far better than ibuprofen or drugs containing codeine ever did. Another positive is that stopping the pill has given me the time and space to learn about my own fertility and be able to manage it naturally, which is something I've feel enjoyed and have found quite empowering. Thanks for sharing your experience Lucy, it's been nice to reflect on these things!

[@HelenPoodle]

It's always really nice to hear someone else's experience about choosing to not be on the pill at all.

[@karenhatfield3103]

So glad you posted this! That is absolutely amazing how you stuck it out. It must feel so rewarding where you are at now. I am in the process of figuring out my hormones, and your post has been helpful!

[@sarahmoore8100]

I also love how open and honest you are. And very informative. I wish I could have watched or heard this back when I was growing up. Very good & honest information that young women should know. Thank you!!

[@bookmatty]

I LOVE "Get ready with me"s when people just chill and chat and do their makeup, it's so interesting yet relaxing

[@LiFEwithIvA1]

It is so fitting that you're discussing this in your video today! I recently stopped the pill (for the first time in 4 years) because my doctor told me I should take a little break and now I'm experiencing all of the horrible symptoms I had prior to being on the pill (and I now realize exactly why I was on the pill in the first place). I have horrible back pain, acne, headaches, fatigue, bloating, HORRIBLE mood swings and ovulation pain. I definitely empathize with you about how you felt when stopping. So glad you made this video. I definitely feeling waaay less alone.

[@CaylieandTim]

Starting a new pill today, and quite nervous about it! Hoping for all of the positive side effects and none of the negative ones! Haha! Loved this video- thanks for sharing! Your makeup looks lovely as well! Xoxo, Caylie

[@lucymoon]

Good luck!!

[@Travelbyailsa]

I'm starting mine tomorrow hoping for the same thing ❤️

[@tbinh_d]

i love the cute little intro u added! simple but adds to the calming yet aesthetically pleasing atmosphere of your videos

[@amyhasaface]

you talk about the real world like no other. Love it

[@alotblog9932]

I love these chatty GRWM so much

[@gracecarter1469]

Love the Chatty GRWM videos! I have endometriosis and adenomyosis which results in super painful periods. I have tried so many different hormonal treatments and it has left my with horrible side effects from bloating and weight gain to hair loss and acne. I now have a horrible relationship with my body because it has changed so often and I don't understand it. I know that not your experience but it's nice to hear someone talk about things openly.

[@caitlind3396]

I honestly love your videos, your voice is so soothing

[@thepianooogirl]

i just looove your chatty grwm‘s. i saw that you uploaded it last night but waited till the morning so i could watch it while having breakfast and a nice cup of tea 💕

[@mbgisleena]

11:31 I totally feel you on the boosted confidence from the weight loss even though it's the wrong way of losing it. Ever since i went back to college i haven't really had any time to have a decent meal cus either ill be too stressed or i just won't have enough time so i ended up losing weight and people complimented and all i'm thinking is "...yeah....you should really try stress if you want to tone up :)))))))) :))) :) :)"

[@khiemly.dzs11]

I would honestly listen to a podcast of you talking & getting ready as I get ready every morning

[@niamhelizabeth7520]

Loved this video! i’ve has some problems with the pill and changing pills in the past & it’s been so good to hear someone else’s experience!

[@emilie3461]

I have premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Which is a disorder where for the two weeks leading up to your period, you have severe depression symptoms. Mine started out not not bad, but they eventually turned into being suicidal and having breakdowns every night for two weeks. My period was hell as well, my cramps were so bad that I threw up and some of the days I couldn't even go to school. But I still thought it was better than the pmdd, which is a form of depression. So I started the pill when I was thirteen and it has really helped. The first pill the doctor put me on was actually was the perfect one for me, I only got some mild side affects at the start of using it, but it made my pmdd so much better, it made my cramps so much better, and it helped with my acne. I really was lucky there. Because I only had one week a month were I weren't depressed or in a lot of pain. So I've actually had a very positive experience with the pill.

[@amberbiggs37]

This was so helpful! I suffer with depression and a lot of it is to do with my hormones that are CRAZY all of the time and it suuuuuuucks!! This was so useful for me to find out about pills and what could possibly help to give me a slight boost of happiness ✨

[@giovizaff]

I'm not on the pill, and never have been. So, this is my pill free experience, a 'pill virgin' if you will lol. Usually a couple of days before I get my period, physically I get a sore throat and the sniffles (apparently it's a genetic thing? my mom told me the same thing used to happen to her), doesn't even matter if we're in the middle of summer, (it's like a hay fever but my body seems to be allergic to itself). I also get very moody and get hormonal breakouts like everyone else. Also my cycle is hella short, at least for my standards: it's 23 days long, give or take 1; but when I get stressed (mostly during finals) its gotten shorter, sometimes going for 17-18 (that's two periods a month and pretty much the last thing you need during fucking finals omg). Since I started college though, mood's been all over the place and I was wondering if it was my hormones, since they seem to be very flaky and unreliable lol so I was thinking about going on the pill. Your video was very useful! I will talk to my obgyn.

[@lauren499]

This video is revolutionary, why are we not told about the pill options available to us. I am on the implant, I have no periods at all but, I feel like I have an emotional hormone cycle. For example, I get sad specific times of the month, cravings, bloating etc just no bleeding!

[@Louisyed]

Lauren Perry quite lucky that you don't get periods on it. My sister had the implant for a year to 18 months but eventually had it taken out as she was bleeding constantly.

[@mcswiftino]

Awesome video and couldn't have come at a more perfect time. Never had much issue with my period bleeding, mood and length wise however suffered the worst cramp and not the best skin. Did the whole antibiotics thing for a while. Early/mid 20s was suggested to go on the pill. Got put on dianette. It was great. Cleared my skin, got rid of cramps and no issues. After about 4 years was suggested to come off it which again fine. Now in my early 30s my skin has got bad (almost cystic round my jaw) so asked to go back on dianette and the doctor I saw wouldn't, wanted to put me on a more common pill. Been on regivedon for a month and a half (was given 2 months to try) my skin is the worst it's ever been, travelled up my cheeks which I've never had, I'm more emotional and it's made me quite anxious. Will be back at the doctors in the next couple of weeks so we'll see! Being female sucks lol

[@xotbirdox]

mcswiftino You're only supposed to be on dianette for 2 years max. I have PCOS and take it on and off to regulate my periods. My gynaecologist will not put it on repeat prescription for me bc it can be so dangerous. She just gives me a few cycles at a time.

[@92lilmiss]

Hi Lucy, I never usually comment on your videos but this one really stood out to me. Im currently a 4th year medical student in the UK, and I am currently doing a 8-week block on Obstetrics and Gynaecology. It is surprising me to that out of these 8 weeks we only have 3 allocated days to GUM and contraception. The only resource we really get signposted to is the UKMEC guidelines of contraception which is an evidence based document which recommends which contraception may be the most advisable/suited for individuals with certain medical conditions, overall i think its worth a read as you seem very in-touch and interested in this subject. My advise would be to go and see a family planning/GUM clinic regarding your contraception as they exclusively deal with this as opposed to GP's whose knowledge can often be out of date and variable. I hope this helps!!!!!!!! Lots of Love

[@amy-louisecurtis7273]

I reacted so badly to microgynon , so i asked for yasmine and iv never looked back. I love it and i feel so much more leveled out. This video was awesome thanks for ur honest pill journey story, i was getting really sick of youtubers banging on about how bad the pill is , theres been a huge amount of biased pill shaming , so this has been a welcomed breath of fresh air xxx

[@itsellie9239]

This really calms me down. My freshers week starts today

[@jadelee-taylor1061]

I have been on a pill called Ava 20 now for coming up to 2 years and it REALLY HELPED, I had suffered from heavy periods that make me throw up, for the first two days, get migraines, cramps so bad I could hardly walk or move out of bed, let's just say I missed a whole lot of school in my last 2 years. So when I found this pill it helped me greatly, I only get migraines from it every so often, my periods are lighter, I still get cramps but bareable enough to go to school/work or you know, get up in general. Just know that it really could help but, of course like Lucy said, it's a trail and error type thing. The pill changed my life.

[@katylouise7307]

Finally!! I was on microgynon and my moods were awful i would cry at everything and have panic attacks frequently. Then i changed to rigevidon about a year ago and my moods drastically improved and i feel so much more myself. I also use clue and find it so helpful to track my mood and energy levels during my cycle.

[@aishakaukau2409]

I’ve been off the pill for 3 years and I fucking love it - no crazy mood swings or depressive slums, my skin got better, no weight gain, regular normal flow periods. Taking the pill made all of these worse, but I didn’t realise until I went off it. I’ve tried pretty much every one under the sun. I’ll never take the pill again - it’s so much better going natural for me and trusting my body to do its thing ❤️

[@wingsofescape]

Oh boy, where do I begin? My period has always been heavy and painful (since I got it at 11) to the point I would have to take iron supplements every two months to make up for the blood loss. Gradually the pain got worse, to the point I would throw up or even pass out, or at best have (really bad) diarrhea and bad PMS. I went through so many painkillers that didn't work (even painkillers with opium did NOTHING), and doctors were like "it's just part of being a woman". Yeah, okay. I even had surgery to see if it was endometriosis but nothing was found. I've been on seven different pills, which do take away my PMS and leave my skin and weight unaffected, but holy moly do they make me bleed. My "pill periods" can last from a week to two months straight without stopping, with the matching bad cramps. In the end I just quit the pill cold turkey (very bad, I know) and started doing acupuncture. And that has made all the difference. Doctors are shit, with comments raging from "it's all in your head", "just get pregnant!", "maybe you have IBS", "there's nothing we can do, just deal with it" and I'm doing my dissertation on medical sexism.

[@geee4497]

Thank you so much for this video! I really needed this! I'm 22 and I stayed on the same pill (cerazette) for 5-6 years despite having horrible unpredictable periods (some lasting 20 days!) I was too scared to come off it because I was so dependent on the idea of the pill and afraid of what would happen to my body/mind if I changed. No one had ever told me it's totally okay to try a few different ones! When I eventually was so fed up and exhausted of my periods that I tried to change pills, I had one doctor tell me I would 100% have a stroke immediately if I tried anything other than progesterone and another prescribe microgynon immediately no real questions asked.. I completely agree that there should be so much more education on women's sexual/hormonal health in general amongst doctors and us ladies alike!! It would have saved me a lot of anxiety, crying and bleeding!

[@Louisyed]

I was so happy when I had periods for the last 2 months - I have PCOS and go several months without getting a period naturally, so getting it twice in a row suggests the changes I've made recently are helping 😊

[@Laurasparkles03]

You don't know how much I needed this! I just had a randomly horribly emotional period last week

[@phoebebowers1203]

So glad you did this! It's so important people understand the implications of the pill:) unfortunately I have had one of worst experiences you could've possibly had, I don't know about anyone else but I was on cerelle and it severely harmed my mental health, I've been off of it for nearly a month now and I can already tell the difference. I feel so much better and lighter, the people around me have even noticed something's different who don't even know about myself coming off the pill!

[@notlikewater]

This really fascinated me to watch and hear how much the hormones have affected you as someone who has never taken any BC. I have never needed to and therefore haven't found the need to seek it out. It has still been intriguing to observe how my periods can be so different from one another from month to month depending on things like my diet, my stress levels, my sleep patterns, how active I've been leading up to my period, how hydrated as well. My periods used to be really heavy when I first got it in middle school and I have a few traumatizing memories of bleeding through my uniform bottoms, but it has evened out and also lessened quite a bit. It's fewer days and generally lighter, but my symptoms can vary. I usually get cramps for the first day or so, sometimes also a couple of days leading up to my period. Sometimes, I also get headaches and I get pretty bloated. My mood is also much more dramatic, like more irritable, more introverted, I cry more easily. I also break out more around my period, and sometimes it can be hard to tell what is as a result of stress from work and what is my period (and when it's both, it's like a double whammy!) Sometimes, I wonder how my body would change if I started the pill of any form, but I also don't want to put my body through it when it's not necessary. My symptoms are annoying but manageable, and the symptoms of the pill seem far worse than those of my period. I respect anyone who does take it, whatever their reasons are, and I simply hope they are getting told the best information for how their body works!

[@xxfrancesnthomasxx]

I was at such a loss about half a year ago. Felt like everything was bad- natural hormones made for an awful, heavy period, and crazily anxious PMS; combined pill made me depressed, full stop (microgynon the worst for me). Finally switched to progesterone only pill (desogestrel). No period, good digestion, good mood, no PMS symptoms. Can't believe all these years I had mental health problems, no doctor suggested me to try a non-estrogen pill! Anyway, trial and error, and being brave enough to change your hormonal contraception if your mental health is affected is SO difficult but SO worth it

[@emilyboelle8724]

I've got the form of PCOS where I don't get periods. People have told me I'm lucky but honestly I would love to get it back. I've been with a holistic doctor who is having me work on it through vitamins and whole foods, and I got my period back naturally one time, but it hasn't come back... I suspect because of my high stress and lots of caffeine. I was off of caffeine when it came back. Struggle with lots of acne, depression, and difficulty losing weight. They also say ignoring your PCOS can cause issues later in life with heart and diabetes. Thanks for sharing your stories about the pill not working, my old doctor put me on provera and another birth control and my current doctor said it was covering up the problem, not helping. I wish they could all agree on something! but i guess everyone is different.

[@amandaa6356]

I literally just got on the pill a couple days ago and had questions about people's experiences, so this video was perfect!

[@Morgan-tu5hj]

Wowwow I was put on Yasmin a couple months ago, now off it. I was desperate for the pill because of my awful skin, my periods are regular and not too painful, but it was more skin related. But basically after about five days of taking it my legs swelled, went numb and purple I was in dire pain and couldn't sleep!!! I was actually scared to take them because of the pain I was in. I tried it for two weeks went off it for a week then back on for a week as told by my doctor!! So now I'm off them and so much happier!! But its funny how varied the symptoms are for different people!

[@MajaJohanssons]

Love these kind of videos with you!! 💕

[@bridgetb6254]

i’m so glad you decided to talk about contraceptives!! i was on the patch for a couple of months but it gave me a rash (yikes) so i went off that, and then in august i got an iud (mirena) and it’s the best/worst thing ever. my hormones haven’t regulated yet so i’ve been getting some of the worst cramps of my life, but my period is pretty much completely gone which was an issue because i have such a heavy blood flow. i’m hoping in another couple months my hormones will be a ok and i won’t have any more pain 👌

[@nataliakovalcikova7538]

every time i watch her videos i feel so peaceful inside

[@HelenPoodle]

Definitely needed this video! My period this time around was terrible and I was feeling so low. Always a relief when I can relate to someone else with a somewhat similar experience. As for the pill, I'm open about it but people always look down on my choices. I tried the pill once, the doctor prescribed me a cheap one that apparently has been around since the 70s. I became horribly depressed, quit my job, and ended up hiding in my basement for 2 days feeling suicidal before I finally went to the doctor. I haven't tried another pill since. It was a terrible and frightening experience for me and I don't want to test out any others if that is how my life could possibly be effected. Using condoms isn't 100% but if it ensures that I can be a healthier and happier person, then that is the choice for me.

[@izzywanders4482]

I switched from the pill to the implant then finally to the copper coil/IUD and honestly having something hormone free has changed my life. No side affects at all apart from slightly heavier, more painful periods but generally better skin, mood, regular cycles etc. Copper coil all the way!

[@itsAshwini]

This video feels soo cozy! I love it :)

[@ghostnotes.]

Omg this was so enjoyable and interesting! I love GRWMs and was inspired by yours to film on on my channel. I also loved the open chat about periods, much needed and much, much appreciated! 💛

[@EleanorDaniels]

I mean your aesthetic is just goals

[@laurawinnie99]

this is my exact situation! i went on yasmin for my skin and have been on it for a year and a half now - and i've been worrying that i'm dependent on it, but can't bring myself to come off of it because i don't want to risk bad skin again! thankyou for talking about this!! x

[@izabiaasik9604]

I truly love your GRWM videos cause I love listening to you talking about things. Obviously no matter what thing it is haha :D love from Poland x and so excited for your Autumn videos!

[@tessrach1]

It's great that so many people are talking about their periods at the moment! My period started when I was 13(?) and has always been really really painful (same as my mum and grandma, apparently) so I just assumed that was what periods were. After a particularly horrific night when I was 18 I went to the doctor and was prescribed naproxen to take 'as needed' but it wasn't really enough so I went back the next month and was put on Microgynon. That was fab, and although it didn't get rid of the pain completely, it made it manageable - that and I knew when I was gonna come on, almost to the hour! But after about a year and a half I started getting the bad kind of migraines, so I'm now not allowed on any combined pill at all, and I was put on Cerelle, which is a progesterone-only pill. I was on that for 5 months, and it stopped my periods, which was nice, but it was also pushing me slowly towards a pretty bad place mentally, and I didn't realise that until I missed a pill and had the chillest day I'd had in months - and then I was back on the next day and broke down crying and shouting at my housemates. I came off it in January and have been pill-free for now, and I've been prescribed Mefenamic Acid for the pain. I'm thinking of trying out the Mirena coil when I come back off my year abroad though, so thoughts on that could be nice :-)

[@karenhatfield3103]

Oh my gosh thank you for posting this!! I am so glad I came across your video!! So I am on the generic for Yaz which is Gianvi and it has been the biggest blessing. I went through a lot of hormonal changes about 4 years ago. Felt depressed and like I was going insane. I literally thought I was becoming bipolar. I would wake up happy, then get to work and be sad and at the drop of a hat be so angry I would sweating, then I would want to cry, then out of no where I would start to feel better. I would cry every day because the emotions were so strong. I felt like a failure at every single thing I did during the day - inadequate, unworthy, useless, you name it. I finally went to my doctor and she told me I have almost all of the symptoms of PMDD. Which means my hormones are fluctuating like crazy. I felt fantastic within a month of taking Gianvi (it is specifically to help level out PMDD hormones). I have tried other "similar" generics. Never believe someone when they say that because I went back to crazy me almost within days.I am a huge advocate of also doing your own research because just like you said we are told so many different things and it is so difficult to trust someone on this topic. Overall the last few years have been pretty good emotionally. School would stress me out like crazy and make me feel weird but I figured thats just normal with stress. And this year has been harder for me (I would say worse than the stress from college) and I have been diving into research. I apologize for the long post, but hopefully this is helpful to someone, just as your video was very helpful to me!!

[@Zedstergal]

I'm on the desogestrel contraceptive pill, which for me means that I don't have periods and it's completely fine and amazing! No mood swings and no physical annoyances. I've been on this for 6 years and haven't had a period since then. My doctor ensures me that this is completely fine and healthy. 10 out of 10, would recommend.

[@carrie4556]

LUCY YOU STUNNER (also thank you for talking about the pill because youtubers like you, hannah and melanie are the only reason i know anything about sex/contraception/hormones because school teaches you nothing) xx

[@katek4558]

I love these type of videos.

[@justso9418]

Thank you for this video! Perfect timing because I have been having serious mood problems and I didn't know why. I did some research and found out it could be my pill... I'm changing brands soon and I really hope my mood will get BETTER! Love you and you look GORGEOUS!

[@maddimartinez7894]

Just started a new birth control pill for my skin and oh boy does it have me emotional around my period. Not angry, just very easily sad? Not depressed either, I just cry at the drop of a hat when I'm on my period with this pill.

[@Avfosk]

I literally LOVE YOU

[@miillsy]

I feel like the pill I'm on might be helpful to anyone who is struggling with similar symptoms. My period without a pill is suuuper heavy, I get cramps like you wouldn't believe and my skin breaks out like a 13 year old teenager (I'm 24). The main thing other than cramps and flow though, was I could never predict when I'd be on! My cycle could range from anywhere between 2 and 6 weeks! I first went on microgynon when I was 19. It helped me manage the period itself ok, regulated me a bit, but it made my skin even likelier and more subject to break outs all over my body not just my face, but also made me super bloated, gained weight, and my mood became more depressive. I was then put on marvelon and oh my gosh has it helped! My flow is really reduced, now just typically 4 days, and manageable not like the waterfall it used to be! I'm now like clockwork and can usually predict to the day I'm going to come on. It's helped clear my skin a lot, regulate my mood, and helped with the bloating. My cramps are still pretty bad, but more manageable than before. Essay sorry, but if looking for a new pill I'd recommend trying marvelon! My doctor tried to get me off it once as I think it's one of the more expensive ones for them to prescribe, but I think it's worth it for how much good it's done! :) x

[@taylorearley2829]

I used to get such terrible cramps before I went on the pill. The first kind that was prescribed to me did make me breakout very badly but my skin cleared after I switched to a new kind. I've been on my current pill for about a year now and I loooove it.

[@biancabart1710]

The pill makes me extremely depressed! I've been off it for a year now and my mood is more consistent, but I still get depressed/anxious during the week my period starts. Its really good to talk about this!

[@BlogManiac64]

a book i read about nutrition told me to find out for myself what i'm intolerant to and how differents food affect my body (cutting stuff out, trying new foods, etc) it's a looong road but i'm willing to try it 🙌🏻

[@drewby1601]

I was on Microgynon for 3 months when I finally realised I could go on contraception to stop the awful, heavy, painful periods I was getting. I didn't notice it myself until after I came off it, but I became irritable, had terrible mood swings and had a major decline in my mental health. It was by chance that they took me off this and gave me Rigevidon when I went back, and I had a much better experience on that. For me though, my periods are so bad I can't stand having them at all, so I got the implant a few months ago and have been period-free since. I'd really recommend both Rigevidon and the implant for people looking into helping/completely stopping heavy, painful periods. Loved this video, it's so great to hear others' experiences!

[@zarabailee7271]

I have the most horrible cramps right now, and i thought to myself i really need a lucy video. And like that the notification came down!! Whatta dayy:)

[@meabhmackin5400]

I really enjoyed this video Lucy xx

[@rebekahstewart3622]

I appreciate your candor! I wish more people would be open about periods--it would have made my life as a young teenager much easier! My worst period story is the time that I had cramps so bad that my mom called an ambulance and I had myriads of tests and ultrasounds only to be told that it was gas pain...none of the doctors even suggested that it was period related. Still angry.

[@maisie8874]

I’ve just complete my first three months of being on Cerelle (aka the mini pill) and it’s been a wild ride. I’ve experienced very frequent periods (I have a period every week), an increase in pimples and my skin becoming very oily. I’m considering having possibly going onto the combined-pill or even continuing with Cerelle. If you want to go onto the pill, talking to your doctor about all of your concerns and asking them as many questions as you want is so beneficial.

[@mariesophie4882]

I can relate to so many of these pill problems. Taking the pill was just not the right thing for me. I used to get headaches that were out of this world, and it was every time during my pill break (so essentially my period) without fault. I knew that two days after going on a break I couldn't schedule anything with friends because I would be in bed with all the lights out and no sound whatsoever. Now since I am off the pill and using a non-hormonal way for birth control I am so much happier. I can't recommend it enough to try and go without hormonal birth-control for a while, it's so much better for your body and your mind (I used to be an emotional mess whilst on the pill, now I'm totally fine)!

[@potterprincesszilly]

This was so helpful! Since I started the pill my emotions are crazy and I considered the pill already but felt so stupid blaming it and my doctors thought its my low vitamin d levels. I've already got an appointment with the doctors and hearing your experience helps me so much to actually ask the doctor to change the pill no matter what he thinks what its from. haha. Thank you so much!

[@tuo2514]

I'm a cis guy so _obviously_ I don't get periods, but I wanna thank you Lucy, and everyone in the comments, for sharing like this. I know its not targeted at guys, but I find it really useful for empathising and understanding what y'all are going through. There's such a stigma with periods when it comes to guys, but when you have public discussions like this it opens up that world to us, and that's really powerful.

[@sofiyaminsariya3108]

This has been such an emotional period for me too (still going through it haha) and it's nice to hear I'm not alone :)

[@Over17Mirrors]

i agree so much about doctors all having different opinions and all thinking theirs is definitely the right one: the first time i went to the doctor about contraception i was immediately given the pill as 'the best thing since sliced bread', then after that told it was probably why i was depressed and that no one should be on it. I also had two doctors tell me how great the copper coil is, only to have another react to me having it like it was the devil's contraption and suggest women were 'confused' when they get it. great video!

[@qsedrgthyj]

every time i see one of your videos pop up i get so happy ! love from california

[@sophiew8220]

I could watch your videos all day xx 😍❤

[@saraduty8972]

Thank you for posting this! I had an incompetent hack of a doctor put me on a progesterone pill. I had a cycle that lasted 35 days (I'm not exaggerating) and it was quite heavy the whole time. I called the doctor's office many times through that month asking if I should stop taking it or if I should come in to be checked. I they kept blowing me off. I changed doctors, he helped me and everything ended up being good. The point is if your body is telling you NO on a medication it's ok to listen. Don't let a stupid doctor tell you otherwise.

[@pili13196]

I noticed you are talking about cruelty free make up! Would you ever do a cruelty free make up routine? I am trying to go cruelty free with my make up and I can't find the right concealer. Thank you!

[@maisieb973]

Pilar Gesino that would be awesome !

[@HeatherRising]

The Diva Cup has saved my period. I've used it for two cycles and I'm already in love with it. I've recently had my Mirena IUD removed. I had the IUD for 7 years and during that time, I didn't really have a period. What it also took away was my libido. When I didn't need the IUD anymore, I was kind of scared to get it removed, because I felt like I was relying on it to keep my period away. Seven years is a long time to go without a period. But I really wanted to see if it was decreasing my libido. Now I get to experience my natural hormone levels and it's super fascinating! I started using the Clue app when I got my IUD removed and I also recommend it. I've noticed that I don't really PMS too much. I get a little sad and a little more sensitive, but it's nothing intense. I'm a pretty emotional person in general. My flow is very heavy on the first day of my period and then normalizes for the next few days. I borderline look forward to my period now to use the Diva Cup. It's so cool to actually measure how much blood you're losing! I'm sure that may be gross to a lot of people, but I'm fascinated by it. Oh! And I experienced ovulation pains for the first time! I used to get debilitating cramps during my period pre-IUD. So far, my cramps have been minimal. Last cycle's ovulation pain was actually worse than my cramps. It was so weird. Also, my libido is back! (Especially around ovulation, which makes sense.) I feel like this is a super long comment, but you expressed interest in hearing about our cycles, so there's mine in a nutshell! I really liked this video! I learned a lot about pills from you!

[@BlogManiac64]

thank you for a video on this topic!

[@boilingpigsty]

Thank you so much for this! I left my pill at home when I went out of town for a couple days, and I felt dizzy and anxious without it and thought I was going crazy.

[@nina_allegra]

I really like these videos because it's a topic that isn't talked about on youtube that often. I just got back on the pill after not taking it for over a year, because my skin and period pain got so bad. Originally I didn't want to go back on the pill because I hate the fact that I now take hormones every single day, but to be honest I also didn't find a better form of contraception for me. Regarding my skin I really hope to see an improvement, even though I'm not taking the strongest pill that is used for acne, because I'm too scared of blood clots. But in general, every friend I talk to either has problems with their hormones and skin after coming off the pill or doesn't want to take the pill anymore but can't find a better alternative. The struggle is real 🙄

[@loxigas]

I had the exact same experience and of course I realized years later that I got depressed when I was in uni because of the pill!! I was on it for about a year and a half when I was 20 and randomly stopped using it, even then I hadn't made the connection that this was why I was feeling permanently anxious and prone to depression. I used Yasminelle (the lighter version of Yasmin) , it's a pretty common recommendation in the Balkans/Southeast Europe. Now at 25, my personality still hasn't bounced back to how I used to be. Thank you for making this video, I wish I had seen it when I was younger!

[@nakitalovesyhuu]

Raspberry Tea!! Helps with pain, mood, and makes my period last much shorter ☺

[@9696vicky]

GO ON THE MIRENA COIL! It's the best!

[@ellieplummer2161]

When I came off the pill, I felt so crazy too and it took me over 6 months to fully recover but it gave me comfort knowing that I was only feeling like this because I was coming off the pill and it will pass even though it doesn't feel like it

[@499kittylover]

eyeshadow!.. You should try anastasia "burnt orange". I think we have similar makeup taste and i just wear it as a light wash of color and still get loads of compliments on it.

[@alicem7181]

Loved this video!

[@EstelaAndreetta]

Yess💕💕 GRWM my favourite

[@carolinehedwall1660]

It’s so interesting to hear about your experience!! I was on a combined hormone pill for six months and it helped my acne so much but my mood completely flatlined. I was pretty much apathetic constantly and didn’t experience sadness but I also didn’t feel happy for the full six months. I usually have remission with depression-like symptoms like this but it was continuous the whole time I was on it. It happened gradually so I didn’t notice and thought I was just suicidal and depressed for other reasons. I kept taking the pills until my friends said they saw the change. I also realize now that I had huge risk taking behaviors in those months than usual that are typically completely out of my personality. I totally empathize with how you said you felt crazy because I felt like my brain was another person’s but in my body because I didn’t have much control over my thoughts. I stopped taking them in May and I’ve never felt better but now have horrible acne again 😭 I’m scared to try other pills but I might do it soon after this video!!

[@EstelaAndreetta]

I've been recommended the pill several times for flow control, acne and hormones but don't want the weight gain/boob growth that comes with it...I'm already really happy with the way my body is and don't want it to change... However this was really interested to watch as someone who never has taken the pill :)

[@oliviaarnold3532]

Girl it could be the sulfite preservative, it's in wine, beer, cider, vinegar and most other dried or fermented fruits or vegetables. I'm allergic to them and it makes me really sick! Thankfully there are these drops called pure wine drops that remove the preservative from liquids such as wine, I'd recommend trying them out because they really made a huge difference for me! Best of luck xx

[@egoscsajszy]

I'm 23 and I've always had a really irregular period ever since I can remember. When it came, it wasn't too painful, it was ordinary length and everything, but there were months when it just didn't come. Once when I was maybe 16 or 17, there was an entire year when my period just disappeared, although I'm pretty sure that was due to the death of my brother which occured around that time. Now I finally did go to the doctor and I got a pill, I just started taking it, so I'm really hopeful that it will help me having regular, on-point periods again. If anything, it's really making me more focused and helps me feel a lot better, I've been down lately, but I've been much more balanced since taking it. Fingers crossed it'll work on the long run! :)

[@christinegarriott4468]

I got a hormonal Mirena IUD and I haven't had a period or any mood swings in months. My skin has been breaking out a bit, but it's not been anything a bit of acne medicine can't help. Before that I was on the pill, Yasmin, and I absolutely loved that one. My periods were light and easy, my skin was clear, and I didn't get mood swings or anything

[@christinegarriott4468]

I would recommend to an IUD to anyone that can get one. They're amazing and basically life changing. Also, before I was on birth control in general, I hadn't had a period in 6 months (I was still a virgin, so I knew something was definitely wrong).

[@christinegarriott4468]

Also, the pill helped pull me out of a real bad bout of depression because I had a hormone imbalance. They had to give me one with estrogen to help balance it out.

[@megan.cunnington]

This was the perfect length for me to paint my nails!!! Literally finished as you said goodbye couldn't have timed it better if I tried lol

[@DelicateDragons]

I used to be on a combined pill that needed a 7 day break and it was horrible. The pain was unbearable (cramps) and I became depressed and also very angry. Kept lashing out at my family and then boyfriend. Changed over to the 30 day pill and I'll never look back. I don't have the same problems anymore, rarely any mood swings (my mood levelled out) and it helped calm me down and rarely any pain Trust your instincts on this stuff your body will tell you when it doesn't agree with something