"i have been on kariva for about five months. it is my first experience with the birth control pill as i am getting married on september and wanted to be regulated by the wedding. the first couple of months, i experienced mood swings, headaches and weird appetite.  however, my side effects have leveled out.  i no longer have any side effects.  in fact, it has cleared my acne up some. my periods have never been bad but they are now only about 1-2 days long.  i would say my cramps may be a little worse, but since the period is shorter it evens out.  i have not gained weight from this pill.  in fact, along with diet and exercise, i have been able to lose weight while taking this pill.  i would recommend kariva."