Family Planning Plus

OrthoTriCyclen-Lo does contain lower doses of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, so, theorectically, side effects such as weight gain and mood swings should be decreased. However, many recent studies show that birth control pills in general do not cause women to gain weight. While many women do seem to gain weight while on oral contraceptives, researchers think that other factors are to blame (decreased activity, increased calorie intake, poor diet).

As far as mood swings…many oral contraceptives can cause mood swings. These may be temporary, especially if you just started the pill. Your body needs time to adjust to the hormone shifts that occur when starting oral contraceptives, and the moodiness will resolve after a month or two. However, if the moodiness continues and cannot be contributed to any major life change, speak to your healthcare provider. A change in pills may be necessary.