Patient's question:
How many times can you take birth control pills in a year? Do birth control pills cause weight gain? I wasn't as heavy before, and my diet hasn't changed much, but I don't know why I'm getting fatter and fatter. Is it because the birth control pills contain hormones?First follow-up question: I'm gaining weight mostly in my stomach now, with a lot of belly fat. Can I take weight-loss pills to lose weight? Besides taking weight-loss pills, how can I lose weight healthily?
Second follow-up question: I don't have much time to exercise. Can I use dieting as a way to lose weight? Will it be effective? The so-called dieting just means eating less fat-containing foods.
Doctor's answer:
Side effects of oral contraceptives: Nausea and vomiting may occur for 2-3 weeks when you first start taking them (this can gradually subside). Low-dose birth control pills may cause vaginal bleeding while taking them. After taking birth control pills for a long time, menstrual flow may decrease significantly or even cease completely. Since oral contraceptives primarily work by inhibiting ovulation to achieve contraception, some people may experience excessive ovulation suppression, leading to amenorrhea (no menstrual period) or infertility after stopping the medication.Just stick to losing weight and don’t take them again next time. Weight loss requires controlling your diet and exercising more—reduce your intake of staple foods, moderately increase vegetables, fruits, and tubers, and eat fewer fried and high-sugar foods. Breakfast is a must, but eat lightly or skip dinner. Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day—running, brisk walking, swimming, hiking, ball games, squats, etc.