Expert: Drea Jean H. - 5/16/2006

Question
I started on ortho tryclen lo 3 months ago.  My periods since then have been very random & lengthy from time to time.  My problem is that after my 2nd to last period I had another 2 weeks later.  Now in the past 2 1/2 weeks have gained 8 pounds.  I have been eating the same but have been bloated since day 1 & now the scales shows it too.  Will this pass once I am on the pills 3 - 6 months as I've heard some places or is this real weight instead of bloat & water retention.  It just came on so quickly.  I'm ready to just give up on the pills. Help!

Answer
Hi Susan,

You are new to the pill, and all of these things are very common within the first few months. Your periods should start to regulate. And the weight gain may be real weight, but its going to be hard to determine that this early on. It may be as simple as a pill change. You may need a diffrent brand, or maybe even the regular dosage. People often need to change brands before they get what works for them the best. If its water rentintion, changing brands may make a diffence.

Good Luck and Thanks,

Drea Jean