I am having issues with birth control pills. I was on Lo Estrin Fe for many many years before going off birth control alltogether about 7 years ago. 6 months ago I went back on the pill, Ortho Novum, to help with my acne and irregular periods. I was on that for 3 months but had breakthrough bleeding the entrire time. My Dr. switched me to Alesse after 3 months. The first month went fine, but the 2nd month I began bleeding 10 days before my period. She then switched me to Aviane. Again the first month went fine and now, on my 2nd cycle of the Aviane, I began bleeding yesterday, a full 13 days before my period should begin. This is not spotting, it's heavy enough to require a tampon, and is accompanied by water retention, moddiness, cramps & breast tenderness. I had bloodwork done last cycle to check my hormone levels & thryoid and all came back w/in normal limits. I've been trying to get this under control for 6 months now and am getting frustrated. I have a big trip coming up next month and don't want my period to interfere. What should I do? Should I go off the pill completely, stay on the Aviane or try going back on the Lo Estrin Fe? Is there a significant difference between the Lo Estrin Fe & the Aviane? I should mention I also had a normal pap 3 months ago.