questions about the BCP...

I've had incapacitating migraine-like headaches for the past year or two with my period. They seem to be getting worse (the nausea at least) and I thought I'd try to go off hte pill, in case the hormones are doing something.

My first question - has anyone been on the pill and had period problems get worse? (I used to have very bland periods, I'd just get tired, but the past few years, having been on the pill, this tiredness seems to be incapacitating.)

Secondly - what about changes to your cycle as you hit 30? I'm wondering if this is just a (sucky) natural change to my cycle?

Thirdly - for those of you who've gone off the pill, how long did it take for your cycle to even out and return to normal?

You should definitely go see your GP.  Your best bet would probably be changing your BCP prescription.  Coming off the pill completely will mean you'll need to use other contraceptive methods (unless you want to try for a baby of course!).

There are lots of different kinds of pills available.  It sounds like the one you're taking probably isn't the right one for you.

To answer your questions - firstly, while on the pill my periods were always similar but my moods and energy levels would fluctuate.  Secondly, yes, as I'm getting older my cycle has changed; as I approach 40 it's more like Niagara Falls.  (Thankfully not anymore thanks to the Mirena coil, but that's another thread!)  Thirdly, when I stopped the pill in the past it took anywhere from 3-6 months for my periods to settle down and find a "routine".  YMMV.