Yasmin is the only birth control I've been on, so I can't really comment on the Alesse. But I will tell you that the Yasmin has really helped me. I take it along with Spiro, but I really think its the Yasmin that has helped me. I rarely get breakouts anymore and if I do, they are small and go away a lot quicker than they used to. Plus the breakouts are only around the time when I start my period, but thats understandable. No I don't believe that Yasmin has made me gain weight, though my Dr. told me it might. I do think I eat more than I used to, but maybe I just have a fast metabolism. When I first got on Yasmin, I would take it at night and wake up feeling ill to the point where I would throw up. But this only lasted for the first few days or so of each pack, and I've been on it for a good 6 months and I don't get sick anymore. I guess it reacts differently with everyone though. I've also become more emotional since being on it. I find myself crying at the stupidest things. Well thats what I have experienced with Yasmin, hope it was somewhat of a help for you.