Lo Loestrin FE

Smoking cigarettes while taking COCs, like Lo Loestrin FE, can significantly raise the risk of serious heart problems, including heart attack and stroke. The risk is greater if you're over 35 years old and have a history of smoking cigarettes. If you smoke, talk with your gynecologist about safer birth control alternatives.

Lo Loestrin FE can cause serious blood clots because it contains ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen). More estrogen can lead to more blood proteins that stimulate clot formation. These blood clots can be life-threatening and can happen anywhere in your body. Get medical attention right away if you have any signs or symptoms of a blood clot:

It's not clear whether Lo Loestrin FE and other COCs can significantly raise your risk for breast and cervical cancer. In one study, people who used COCs for more than 5 years seemed to be at a greater risk for cervical cancer than those who never used these medications. Certain breast cancers also have tumor cells that spread faster in the presence of estrogen. Since there's a risk of serious harm, don't take Lo Loestrin FE if you currently have or have had breast cancer or cervical cancer.

Don't take Lo Loestrin FE if you have liver problems, such as liver infection caused by a virus (e.g., hepatitis) or liver tumors. Although rare, this medication can raise your risk of getting benign liver tumors. If you experience signs of liver problems, you should stop taking Lo Loestrin FE and ask your gynecologist for an alternative birth control. Signs of liver problems can include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), fever, tiredness, loss of appetite, or dark colored urine.

Lo Loestrin FE can raise your blood pressure, so make sure you get your blood pressure check at least once a year while you're taking this medication. The risk is higher if you're older and have been taking birth control for a long period of time. If you have a history of uncontrolled high blood pressure, don't use this medication. Talk with your gynecologist so you can discuss the benefits and risks of taking Lo Loestrin FE.

Some studies show that COCs, like Lo Loestrin FE, can raise the risk of gallbladder disease. This is because more progestin and estrogen in the body can lead to higher chance of gallstones. Although the risk is low, talk to your gynecologist if you a history of gallbladder disease before starting Lo Loestrin FE.

Lo Loestrin FE can raise your levels of blood sugar and triglycerides (a type of fat). If you have prediabetes or diabetes, your risk of having your blood sugar rise is much higher. This is because Lo Loestrin FE can prevent your body from breaking down sugar efficiently. Additionally, this medication can also affect your level of triglycerides. High triglycerides might lead to a higher risk of pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation). Speak with your gynecologist before starting Lo Loestrin FE if you have a history of high blood sugar or triglycerides. Your gynecologist might help you choose another birth control or monitor your blood works more closely if you take this medication.

Let your gynecologist know if you experience new or worsening migraines or headaches while taking Lo Loestrin FE. You might need to stop your medication if your migraine or headache doesn't go away or becomes severe.

People who take Lo Loestrin FE can sometimes experience irregular bleeding and spotting, especially during the first 3 months of taking this medication. Irregular bleeding can vary from slight staining to bleeding similar to a regular period. This problem is often temporary, so continue taking your medication as directed. If your bleeding doesn't stop, becomes heavier, or you miss a period after the initial bleeding, let your gynecologist know. Your gynecologist can perform blood tests to rule out other potential causes for bleeding.

Some medications can interfere with how your body gets rid of Lo Loestrin FE. This can affect the amount of Lo Loestrin FE in your body, how well it works, and the risk of side effects.