Expert: Drea Jean H. - 3/24/2006

Question
Hello, I started taking the pill about a year ago and since then I gained about 15 pounds, I tried different brands of pills, the patch and the ring, righ now Iam on the pill, what I'd like to know is if I stop taking the pill will I lose the weight and will I get pregnant right away? That is what I've heard from other people, that once I stop taking the pill I'll be pregnant, is is true? please reply as soon as you can, I really want to stop taking the pill, it's a pain, and I gained weight.
Thank you so very much...
Paulina

Answer
Hi Pauline. Stopping the pill and using no other form of birth control, as long as your a fertile woman that has intercourse, will definitly lead to pregnancy. Pill manufacturers say there are no long term affects of the pill, and that becoming pregnant as soon as you stop taking it is certainly possible. Many pill users say it took months or in some cases years to become pregnant, but there is no way to link that to use of birth control. It is VERY possible to become pregnant as soon as you stop the pill.

If the pill is what has caused your weight gain, then stopping the pill may make weight gain subside or even stop. However, losing the weight will be just as hard as if it wasnt pill related. Exercise, diet, etc.

Take care.

Bottom line, if you stop the pill, your chance of becoming pregnant will greatly increase, if you dont use another form of birth control, such as over the counter products.

Also, you may want to discuss with your doctor about Diaghrams or IUDs. They may be a good option for you.