Femcon Fe and Weight Gain

Is there a connection between Femcon Fe and weight gain? Although women taking birth control pills often gain weight, recent studies indicate that birth control pills (including Femcon Fe) probably do not cause weight gain for most women. If you are taking Femcon Fe and weight gain becomes a problem, talk to your healthcare provider about possible lifestyle changes or other methods of birth control.

 

Does Femcon Fe Cause Weight Gain?

Femcon™ Fe (norethindrone/ethinyl estradiol) is a prescription birth control pill. Based on current research, weight gain is probably not a true side effect of birth control pills, despite what you may read or hear.
 

Weight Gain and "the Pill"

It is commonly believed that birth control pills cause weight gain. Many women stop taking them because they think their weight gain is due to the pills. However, recent studies indicate that birth control pills probably do not cause weight gain in most women. Although women taking them sometimes gain weight, this weight gain is probably not caused by birth control pills. In studies, there were no significant differences in weight gain between women who took birth control pills and those who did not. While it may be easy to blame weight gain on birth control pills, the real causes are probably due to a poor diet, inactivity, and other factors.
 

Femcon Fe and Weight Gain: Suggestions

If you are noticing unexplained and undesired weight gain while taking Femcon Fe, there are a few things that you can do to get your weight back under control. Some suggestions include:
 
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet. This diet should include:
 
    • Lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
    • Lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
    • Limited amounts of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium (salt), and added sugars.
 
  • Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week. Find something you enjoy, as you will be more likely to keep it up.
     
  • Limit your intake of alcohol and "empty" calories, such as sugary sodas, candy, or junk food.
     
Remember that quick fixes, such as weight loss pills, are usually not the answer. The best weight loss plans aim for moderate, steady weight loss through diet and exercise.
 
Also, if you are noticing weight gain with Femcon Fe, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she can give you other suggestions for dealing with this. Your healthcare provider may also look for other causes of weight gain, such as certain types of medical conditions. If the weight gain continues, he or she may also recommend other lifestyle changes or suggest another method of birth control.
 
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;