From the Guidelines
Weight-neutral oral contraceptive options include progestin-only pills like Norethindrone and Drospirenone, as well as combination pills containing newer progestins such as desogestrel, norgestimate, or drospirenone, which are less likely to cause weight gain than older formulations 1. When considering weight-neutral oral birth control options, it's essential to look at the specific hormone formulations, as older progestins and higher estrogen doses are more commonly associated with fluid retention and increased appetite.
- Progestin-only pills (POPs) like Norethindrone (Micronor, Camila) 0.35 mg daily and Drospirenone (Slynd) 4 mg daily are considered weight-neutral options.
- Among combination pills, those containing newer progestins such as desogestrel, norgestimate, or drospirenone are generally considered more weight-neutral, with specific options including Yasmin or Yaz (containing drospirenone), which may even have a mild diuretic effect, and Ortho-Cyclen or Sprintec (containing norgestimate) 1. It's crucial to note that while these options are considered weight-neutral, individual responses vary, and consistent use is essential for contraceptive effectiveness.
- Women should discuss their specific health history with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option, taking into account their unique needs and potential side effects 1.
From the Research
Weight-Neutral Oral Birth Control Options
Some oral birth control options are considered weight-neutral, meaning they do not typically cause significant weight gain or loss. The following are some examples:
- Drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol, which combines drospirenone, a progestin with antimineralocorticoid and antiandrogenic properties, with a low dose of ethinyl estradiol 2
- Extended- and continuous-cycle oral contraceptives, such as those containing ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel or drospirenone, which can reduce the frequency of menstruation and may be associated with less weight gain than traditional oral contraceptives 3
- Progestin-only pills (POPs), such as those containing desogestrel, which are estrogen-free and may be a good option for women who are sensitive to estrogen or experience estrogen-related side effects 4
- Norethindrone, a progestin-only contraceptive that has been shown to be effective in delaying menstruation and preventing breakthrough bleeding, although it may be associated with weight gain in some women 5, 6
Characteristics of Weight-Neutral Oral Birth Control Options
These options may have different characteristics, such as:
- Variable bleeding patterns, which can be a concern for some women 4
- Reduced frequency of menstruation, which can be beneficial for women who experience heavy or painful periods 3
- Antiandrogenic properties, which can help reduce acne and other androgen-related symptoms 2
- Estrogen-free formulations, which can be a good option for women who are sensitive to estrogen or experience estrogen-related side effects 4