Together, Yaz and Yasmin birth control pills are the highest-selling oral contraceptives on the market. Millions of women use them to avoid pregnancy, treat acne, and relieve symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysmorphic disorder. Many of these women remain unaware that there is a significant risk of side effects involved with taking these drugs.

In this article, I'll describe the most common Yasmin and Yaz side effects that women have experienced. Keep in mind that many of those who have suffered from blood clots, pulmonary embolism, and gallbladder disease (among other conditions) have no history of such problems. This is one of the reasons many victims are stepping forward to hold the manufacturer (Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals) accountable.

Blood Clots

There is an increased risk of blood clots when taking any type of birth control pill that contains ethinyl estradiol (estrogen). Yaz, Yasmin, and the generic equivalent, Ocella are known as combined-hormone fourth generation oral contraceptives. They combine a synthetic hormone called drospirenone with ethinyl estradiol. Clinical studies have revealed that the combination carries a risk of blood clots that is 6.3 times greater than not taking birth control at all.

Unfortunately, these blood clots can lead to Yasmin and Yaz side effects that are even more serious.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Blood clots can form within any vein throughout your body. When a clot forms in a deep vein in your leg, pelvis, or arm, it is called a deep vein thrombosis. If the DVT remains at the site, it will form a blockage and hamper blood flow to your heart. However, the condition is not, in itself, life-threatening. The true danger of a deep vein thrombosis emerges if the blood clot becomes detached and travels.

Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary embolism is one of the most serious Yaz/Yasmin side effects because it can permanently damage the lungs. Most cases begin as a deep vein thrombosis in the leg that detaches itself from the site. The blood clot is carried by the bloodstream toward the heart and lodges within a pulmonary artery. The area of the lung that is fed by the artery begins to starve and sustain damage.

Most forms of treatment for pulmonary embolism are targeted toward preventing the blood clot from becoming larger. Surgery is an option, but doctors will seldom recommend it.

Gallbladder Disease

Many women who have never had gallstones or experienced problems with their gallbladders have developed gallbladder disease after having taken Yaz and Yasmin. Symptoms often include acute pain in the abdomen as well as fever, nausea, and vomiting. In many cases, once diagnosed, the entire organ must be removed through a procedure called laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Removal of the gallbladder can lead to additional side effects.


There are questions whether Bayer was aware that Yaz and Yasmin were not nearly as safe as advertised. Nor were the drugs superior to other birth control pills, a claim of their advertising campaigns that drew harsh criticism from the FDA. Many Yaz lawsuits have already been filed that claim Bayer failed to warn the public about the dangers of taking their oral contraceptives.

David Whitney