So here it is. I have been on the pill for 16 years now. I was put on the pill at 14 due to extremely erratic and heavy periods. I started with ortho tricyclen. Due to a blood clot in my leg that developed, I was switched to Loestrin. At 18 years old, I developed cervical cancer and was then switched to microgestin; (not sure if there is any connection between the cancer and the switch). I will be 30 this year. And I smoke.

Over the years, I have experienced some side effects of the pill. I have put on weight, developed acne, my sex drive is bleh, and I have experienced that weird aura thing several times. (I just found out tonight that it might be a side effect of the pill. I never brought it up with a doctor before since it only lasted about an hour at a time and usually only occurs about once every six months or so).

Anyway, due to the fact that every nurse I see for refills and paps has been begging me to get off of the pill, my husband has graciously agreed to get a vasectomy next week.

Here’s my questions: Does anyone know what I can expect once I stop taking the pill after this long? Will any of the side effects that I have experienced become an even greater issue once I quit? I am very concerned since I have been on the pill since puberty. Any help would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks in advance!