Birth Control Forum - Weight Gain on the Pill

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Q: Weight Gain on the Pill

asked by: DoctorQuestion on June 9th, 2006

I started taking Seasonale, the birth control pill that makes you have only 4 periods a year, several months ago. I gained a tremendous amount of weight while on that pill and had terrible mood swings. I am someone who is weight-conscious and likes to feel that I am in control of my body. While on the pill I never overate and exercised regularly, and still gained weight. My doctor then switched me to Yasmin, and I don't believe I have gained any additional weight while on it, but am afraid that it is harder for me to lose weight than it used to be--is that because of the pill? I want to lose some of the weight I gained while on Seasonale, but is it going to be impossible now that I am on Yasmin? What is it about birth control pills that make it so hard to lose weight, even while exercising daily and eating correctly? Am I fighting an uphill battle?

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on June 14th, 2006

Birth Control Answer A1084

There are two reasons for gaining weight while using birth control pills. The first one is caused by the anabolic effect of the contraceptive pills. The second reason is that birth control pills cause increased appetite during regular use. Experts believe that the second reason (increased appetite) is more important. This problem can be minimized by combining low dose pills, diet, and physical exercise.

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