Birth control without weight gain?

I need some recommendations/hx on what people are using out there... What preventative contraceptive causes the least amount of weight gain and doesn't aggravation our symptoms of PMS? I've tried the Orthro Evra patch and generally gain 10 lbs in the middle of the month, but lose it the week the patch is off. Also, I know there have been some deaths attributed to the patch. Needless to say I'd rather not have that intermittent weight gain/bloating at all...lol Also, I know about the shot that stops the cycle for six months, but I am not sure about the fluctuation in weight, nor its name. I'm honestly not sure if it's categorized as a contraceptive and its other side effects. Any input and other suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks, D/Bj

Hello! The shot that you get 4 times a year is called Depo Provera. DON'T DO IT!!! I was on it for 5 years and gained close to 100 lbs. The doctor's blamed most of the weight gain on the shot. I currently take Yasmin Birth Control pills and I have some bloating around the week of my period but it dissapears right after. I have been on it from almost a year with no weight gain from it. I would talk to your doc about it, but do not do any of the injections. You see- the pills are estroidiol whereas the shot is progesterone. It is the progesterone that causes the weight gain- so I avoid anything with progesterone in it. Email if you have any more questions! Good luck! Kim

I also take bc pills, I use Ovcon 35, have for years and LOVE them! No probs whatsoever. And, I have gotten 4 different opinions, 3 from different bariatric surgeons and 1 from my gyno, who has many patients that has had WLS and they all said the surgery I had does not affect absorption of bc pills because they absorb as hormones into the liver, not through the intestines (where malabsorption takes place with the rny). I know there are all kinds of opinions out there, but I have spoken with 4 specialists and gotten the same response each time. I am also a Pre-Med student and knowing knowing the human anatomy, I can see why the surgeons explanation makes sense. So, first, I would ask your surgeon and gyno, then I say if they agree, go for it! Good luck and I'm sure whatever you choose will be right for you! -Phoenix 287/249/150

p.s. I don't know how far out you are, but I have heard certain surgeons place a time limit after surgery on when you can start up the pills again, because immediately after surgery is not recommended due to blood clots. My surgeon gave me 6-8 weeks after surgery.

I have had Mirena since November of 2003. I love it personally I don't have to worry ever or remember anything. I don't even have a period anymore...it also lasts for 5 years. Oh and I haven't gained weight, I don't believe you can on it. Tracey -121

mariena IUD... no pills.. no patches... no shots... its good for five years... and tehre is always condoms

My method is 100% effective and does not cause weight gain. It's called abstinence. It's not for everyone, however! Anyway, I've heard that you have to think about using more than one method if you take any kind of birth control pills because if you don't absorb well, their efficiency could be compromised and you could end up preggers!! Be careful! Jan

D/Bj-I took Nordette and that seemed to work great. I didn't gain any weight on it and I didnt' have any ooops either. Good luck to you! Heather