Weight Gain After Stopping Birth Control: What to Expect

Question
Hello,

I am 27, and I stopped taking birth control pills two months ago after having used them for the past 8 years.  I have gained 5 pounds since I stopped taking them.  My diet and exercise (which is one hour per day) have not changed at all.

Is this a normal side effect of stopping the pill?  If so, will it stop?  I'm very concerned.

Thank you!

Answer
It's unusual to gain weight after stopping the pill.  Is it possible that there is some other factor that could be involved?  Basically you are back on your own hormones after having your female hormones coming from the pill.  I guess it's possible that your own hormones either cause you to retain more water, resulting in increased water weight, or that your hormones have more androgen (male hormone), which could work like anabolic steroids and cause more muscle mass.  In any case it's quite unusual.  If the weight levels off or decreases over time, that may just be the way your body is now (different than it was 8 years ago).  If the weight gain continues I'd try to see an endocrinologist for his/her opinion.