"i have been taking loestrin since i was 16, and i am now 19. i have to say it is absolutely wonderful. i initially began taking it as a way to lessen the flow of my monthly, but it is also an effective birth control in case of &quot;accidents&quot;. i have not gained weight, although i find it more difficult to lose weight. my period is now nearly non-existent, and lasts for maybe a day. i would recommend to everyone."