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Which pills avoids dryness and pain side effects?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 35 years old and started using Nordette last month. However, I have been experiencing vaginal dryness and a lack of libido since then. I weigh 136 lbs and my height is 53 inches.

I need your help in finding a contraceptive that would be more suitable for me. It has also been a week now that I have been experiencing pain in my thighs, legs, and hips.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vandana Andrews

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Thank you for sharing that. I can understand how uncomfortable and frustrating these symptoms must feel. Based on what you have described, the vaginal dryness, low libido, and leg or thigh pain may be side effects related to Nordette (Levonorgestrel and Ethinyl estradiol), which is a combined oral contraceptive pill containing estrogen and progestin.

Nordette can sometimes cause a drop in natural lubrication and sexual desire, especially in women who are sensitive to hormonal changes. The leg, thigh, or hip pain you are experiencing is something to take seriously, as it could occasionally indicate circulatory side effects (for example, hormonal pills can increase the risk of blood clots, though this is uncommon).

Given your height and weight, the risk is moderate, but it is best to get evaluated to rule out any early signs of thrombosis — particularly if you notice swelling, redness, or pain in one leg, or shortness of breath. For contraception, you might consider non-estrogen options, especially if the dryness and libido changes continue:

  • Progestin-only pills (mini pill) — gentler on hormones and often better tolerated.

  • Hormonal IUD (intrauterine device) (like Mirena) — releases a small dose of progestin locally with minimal systemic side effects.

  • Copper IUD (non-hormonal) — avoids hormone-related effects completely but may cause slightly heavier periods.

  • Contraceptive implant (Implanon) — effective for three years, though some women experience irregular bleeding.

In the meantime, you can use vaginal moisturizers or lubricants (like Replens or KY Jelly) to ease dryness, and focus on hydration and stress management, as these also affect libido. I would recommend you see your doctor soon to discuss stopping Nordette and evaluating the leg pain, just to ensure it is not a clot or vascular issue.

Once that is ruled out, your doctor can help you choose a contraceptive method that suits your body and does not interfere with your well-being or sexual comfort. Would you like me to list the best-tolerated alternatives to Nordette based on minimizing dryness and maintaining libido?

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At December 27, 2025
Reviewed At December 30, 2025

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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