Question:
Do we absorb birth control pills?

As a post-op, nearly 4months out, I need to know if I still absorb birth control pills or have they lost their effectiveness and should I be getting the depo-provera shot? Help. I don't want any more children.    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 14, 2002)

January 14, 2002
Here is a good response that I found in the library to your question..."I, like you, was very concerned with this issue when I began my journey. I decided against the depo shot because my ob/gyn said it had a side effect of up to 75 pounds of weight gain. So we decided that was pointless to do. We finally decided on the new Lunelle birthcontrol shot. It is a monthly shot cost the same as birthcontrol pills and worked very well for me. Two months ago I decided to switch back to the pill because I was tired of injections. This is my second month on the pill and my periods have come right on time (with out pills they dont come on time) so I guess I am absorbing fine becuase I am not pregnant either. So talk to your ob/gyn and make the decision together. I just though I would let you know that the pill so far is working for me. " If you are positive you do not want anymore children, perhaps you can see if your surgeon will clamp your fallopian tubes while he is in there. Just a thought.
   — BrendaSinger

January 14, 2002
I got pregnant while on the pill, right around one year post op. Never missed a pill..never... got pregnant anyway. It happens.. if you don't want more children, use additional methods of birth control. Just my experienced 2 cents worth.
   — [Anonymous]

January 14, 2002
I just asked my Surgeon this very question last week. While he said there really isn't any medical data to prove that the pill isn't effective, he recommends that I go with the shot, as there is a lot of controversy on the topic. I haven't scheduled my appointment yet, but I am not looking forward to the monthly shot (OUCH). Good Luck! Open RNY 11/29/01
   — Chloe S.

January 15, 2002
Studies have shown that hormonal methods of birth control are ineffective during periods of extreme weight loss. DO NOT TRUST THEM!!!!!! Once again, back to my old adage: condoms, condoms, condoms.
   — Kierstin C.