Help! The pill + plus size ladies.

[Precious Enchantment]

I was just reading through "The blank manual" - as often I do when I have a spare moment - and came across a thread in reference to contraceptive methods.

Somebody mentioned that the pill doesn't work as completely on women over the weight of 105lbs. As a larger lady [about 235lbs] using this as her only method of contraceptive, this concernes me a whole bunch. I read the instructions before I started taking my pill, but I didn't see that written anywhere.

Does anyone have any further information on this, or is it just an old wives tale that's scaring the hell outta me?

 

[SweetErika]

Here's the study and the plain-English translation. Basically, they concluded a higher BMI can increase the risk of pregnancy, but it's up for you and your doctor to decide. The patch is more strict...I think you're generally not a candidate if you're over 150lbs.

I'm over the "limit" but was on many different formulations (including the lowest dose pills for years) prescribed by a ton of different doctors for eight years. None of them mentioned weight in connection with efficacy, or that I might not be a good candidate. But we also used condoms in addition to the pill for a significant portion of that time because we couldn't afford to take any chances. I'd talk to my doctor, but wouldn't worry about it too much.

 

[Lynxie]

I recently had a chat with my doctor about this. He said there is a bit more of a risk if you have a higher body mass index, but that it was so slight that it shouldn't stress me out. The patch is really the only hormonal contraceptive that is very much affected by one's weight. If you're over 150 lbs, most doctors won't prescribe it to you. Everything taken internally (including the ring) is effective when used by larger women.

If you're truly worried about this, I'd suggest you talk with your doctor about it to learn more. Using a backup form of contraception might relieve some stress, too.

 

[Willing and Unsure]

I'm a plus size lady. I've been taking the pill now for 3 years, and about to start the fourth one. I havent really had any problems at all with the pill and it's effectiveness. I agree with everyone else though, ask your doctor if you're concerned. They will be the one with the most information about it.

 

[Teela]

Don't want to be alarmist, but a friend who was very heavy and on the pill had blood clots that led to a severe stroke and other serious problems. The doctors believe the blood clots were due to the pill which she shouldn't have been taking at her weight. She probably will never be the same. Be careful!

 

[boston_bbw]

As with anything there is always a chance of a different effect for each person. Just today I had a patient who was a 16 yr old girl who had just had a stroke. Why? She was a smoker and on the pill. Yet I know lots of people who do both. You just never know.

 

[Precious Enchantment]

Thankyou everyone for the input. I've decided it's probably best to go see my doctor and see what he has to say, but you guys have been way helpful!

<3

 

[fr34k_n45ty]

i around the 200lb range now and got sick of the pill so i switched to the ring. I've had no problems with it yet i have a check up in 2 months so i'll see if it messed anything up. tella i'm sorry to heard about you friend, i'm guessing it didnt have to do with her medical history because thats something they stress. i would also going to a younger doctor because they are more willing to learn more about new methods and the risks. I wish you the best.