about

My name is Laura and I'm happy to help out with questions if you're asking about a subject I happen to be familiar with. I work at an agency that assists victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, so I'm able to answer questions about those kinds of situations. However, I'll often simply refer people to an agency like the one I work for in their area*, it's usually the best advice I can give. I can also answer most questions about positive dating and sexual relationships, including safe sex. I'm a big fan of the political system so I can answer general questions about that as well, although I won't do your homework for you. My other interests include houseplants, hermit crabs and kiwi fruit. Ask away!


*If I tell you to seek help from a domestic violence or sexual assault agency in your area and you're not sure where one is or where to find out, feel free to ask me. Just let me know what city and state (or country, if ouside the US) you live in and I'll give you full contact information for the agency closest to you that will provide the services you need. If you're concerned about privacy, I'm happy to send you the information without posting it on my column, just let me know if that's what you want.


National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233


National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE

advice

Can birth control give you really really bad mood swings? I started on Ortho tricyclen about three months ago (I'm 19), and recently I've been having really bad mood swings. Could birth control be causing that? Or could it just be outside stress? (which I do have a lot of right now) Any help will be appreciated...I'll rate a 5!

Mood swings, moderate weight gain and upset stomach are all extremely common side effects of birth control pills. After all, you're significantly changing the hormone levels in your body. The good news is that these side effects will usually go away after a few months. In the meantime, they can often be reduced somewhat by taking your pill at the same time each day, taking it towards the end of the day or in the evening and taking it with food. If the side effects are really interfering with your ability to function or don't go away after a few months, you need to go back to your gynecologist. He or she may be able to give you a lower-dosage pill that will be just as effective, but will reduce mood swings and other side effects.

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(Rating: 5) thanks! i'm gonna give it a few more months and see what happens
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