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IS THERE SUCH THING AS A BIRTH CONTROL THAT YIELDS LOW WEIGHT GAIN
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An_246808 posted:
IS THERE SUCH THING AS A BIRTH CONTROL THAT YIELDS LOW WEIGHT GAIN?
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Jane Harrison Hohner, RN, RNP responded:
Dear An: Most of the non-hormonal forms of contraception (eg condoms, diaphragm, Paragard copper IUD) do not impact weight. If you are asking more specifically about birth control pills (BCPs) which tend to produce weight gain, that can be very different between individuals. Sometimes we have to try several different types of BCPs to find one with the least weight impact.

Honestly, I used to not believe that BCPs could prompt that much weight gain until I participated in a study of a currently available BCP that was trying to get FDA approval. I did gain more than the usual two pounds or so. The weight came on suddenly despite no change in my diet or exercise. The weight did go away when the BCP study was over.

As a generalization, some of the possible "water weight" linked to BCP use (ie those 2-3 extra pounds) may be minimized by using a BCP which contains drospirenone. This synthetic progesterone is chemically similar to the diuretic/water pill known as Aldactone. The brand names of some BCPs containg drospirenone include: Yaz, Yazmin, Ocella, Beyaz, etc.

Your own GYN or clinic would be the best source of accurate information about which BCP (or contraceptive method) might suit you. Often a woman's entire medical history needs to be considered in deciding about birth control. Hope you find something that works for you.

Yours,
Jane


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