Birth control pills have differing dosages of the hormones estrogen and progestin, which can significantly affect how you feel when you're taking them. Women who experience side effects, like water retention and bloating, headaches, and weight gain may feel better on a lower dose, Dr. Landa explained. Someone with irregular bleeding may benefit from a moderately dosed, monophasic pill, which contains the same amount of hormone all month.
Even the number on the scale could signal that you need a different dose. "Women who are heavier might not be successfully protected from pregnancy with the lowest dose pills, so they may want to consider a more moderately dosed pill," Dr. Landa said. You have options, so always discuss your concerns with your doctor, who can help you change to another pill or method of birth control if necessary.
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