birth control pills post WLS

o.k. this has probably been asked 100 times before so i apologize but could definitely use ladies' input. i had my RNY in December of 2006. i'm 5'4 started at 225lbs, currently fluctuate btw. 120-125, lowest weight 117 (just 2 weeks ago) goal weight 115 so basically i'm a few pounds from the "dream' goal weight but am way in the healthy bmi range, etc. and would do anything to avaoid re-gain. here's my question: i haven't been on a pill in a long time (pre and post op) and am thinking about going back on a pill now. are there any specific types you can recommend that do not result in weight gain? also, are there any specific considerations i need to take into account as a RNY patient (e.g. are there absorbtion issues, etc.) i'm 32, single no children and while i want to have children in a few years now is not the right time so i want to make sure the pill's effectiveness is not compromised by malabsorbtion. any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Natalie: I've been on Yasmin since one month post op (about 2 years).  I've had no problems.  I seriously need the steady flow of homones to keep me sane - LOL!! Good luck

I started YAZ a few months ago. I had no weight gain at all. It's $60 a month though which is terrible!! Maybe your insurance covers it... Jill

i think you should ask a doctor about this.  it might be different for everyone, or not affected at all by this surgery. good luck, jacki

Hi Natalie, I am 2+ years post op and have been on Alesse (Aviane is the generic which is cheaper, I pay $5.82 per month).  I have had GREAT success with this pill.  I am very sensitive to weight gain on birth control pills, and my doctor put me on this one and it's been wonderful.  No weight gain or mood swings.  It's the lowest dose birth control which is perfect for me.  And as others have said, everyone is different but you will need to consult with your doctor, they can help decide which one is right for you.   I hope this helps.  Good luck! ~Shannon

I dont want to scare you but i had to tell you what happened to me. i had surgery may.2004. needless to say i was on the pill, and got pregnant.. i didnt absorb it from what the doctors said, i sadly lost the baby... so then they put me on the patch...and gave me the shot. that was 1 yr after sx. my daughter is turning 2 in april. I got pregnant even on the patch and shot. people dont believe it sometime, but as my doctor said he gave me the shot in my butt himself... i had a rough pregnancy due to malnutrition and absorbtion.. but the baby is perfect and healthy... i lost all baby weight.. and now gained back 20lbs cause i started eating choc.and sugar while i was pregnant... and now am on the first day of my pouch test and man its tough.  So my advice is... if i had to do it over, i would use a condom as well as another option..but i didnt gain any weight when i had the shot... or the pill or patch... so that is the good news. lol.  everyones different though.....  i did get as low as 126 lbs after i had the baby... i started at 275 lbs. up to 155 lbs now...and i will get back to at least 135. i wont stop til i do.  by the way................. pat yourself on the back your doing great with the weight!!!!

Hi April, I am so sorry to hear about your loss.  You bring up a very good point, about the pill/shot being absorbed properly in some people.  I know this is something that people should look out for, I also know of a post-op that got pregnant very soon after surgery even being on the pill and had complications.   I am saddened to hear about your experience, but it does bring to light something very important.  And a great job for your success in your journey, and your little one!! ~Shannon