Expert: Drea Jean H. - 4/9/2006

Question
I've been on Nuvaring for about 6 mths now. I've also recently gained 10 lbs and I think it's from the Nuvaring. My eating habits have changed dramatically.  I'm always hungry and though I'm active at the gym 4 times a week, toning my body is no longer easy.  I've also gone from a size D chest to a DD and it's starting to depress me.  Other than this weight gain I like it, I actually love everything about it, except for this. I changed from ortho to this because the amount of estrogen in the pill was giving me major migranes, my doctor suggested Nuvaring. Do you recomment changing to something else and if so what? Or if I don't change should I just work out more than 5 times a week? And If I do change will the weight be easier to loose? This is making me very unhappy with myself and I'm not sure what to do. Thanks for your help.
Tammi

Answer
Hi Tammi,

The nuvaring website says the Nuva-Ring is weight neutral, but the prescription info says changes is weight, either gaining or losing, is a possible side effect.

The weight gain COULD be caused by the Ring, however, gain due to contraception is usually small amounts over an extended period of time, so if you put it on quickly, it may have only a little to do with the ring. Personally, I seem hungrier before me period starts, and I know its hormone related, which is something you can consider as a possibility for yourself also.

If you love the Ring, and this is the only irritating side effect, its possible you can control it through moderate eating and exercise. I'd recommend waiting a month or two, and seeing if your weight regulates, that may help you better decide what to do. If it doesnt, switching might be an option.

A few things you may consider: The Patch is convient for busy women, as is the Ring, but the Patch has its own draw backs. You'll want to discuss the patch with your Dr., as its not right for everyone. If the hormones in the Ortho Tri Cyclen were too high, and causing headaches, you might consider Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo, as the hormone dose is not as high, which helps some women who expierience severe side effects. Should you decide to switch, discuss it with your Dr. your options.

If you do change, the weight will not be easier to lose. Once you've gained it, it will be just as difficult to lose as it would if it wasnt related to the pill. The only thing that will change (and remember, this would ONLY be if the weight gain was due to the Ring), is that the gaining may stop, and you wont be competing with yourself to maintain AND lose at the same time.

I'd suggest trying it a few more months, since you love it, and seeing if you can work with it. If the weight gain continues, and you just dont like it, your Dr. can help you find something better, and dont forget about the Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo, that may be a good option.

Good Luck to you and Thanks!

Drea Jean