The pill

[rach912]

Do you have to be under a certain weight to take the pill?

For the last couple of times I have been to the doctor to get the pill they noticed when weighing me that I have put on weight. Last time I was there the nurse said I should try and lose some weight before I came next. Six months later and I have put on more weight, due to lots of office work (not moving about as much) and eating more stodgy foods. However my pill is due to run out so I have to go back to my doctor next week but I am worried what she will say when she weighs me - as they are not exactly sensitive in their approach. Can a doctor refuse you the pill for being over weight?

[AliFlump]

I dont think they will refuse you the pill because you have put weight on. They weigh me everytime and i have stayed the same but some people  who take it do put weight on becaue it gives them an appetite. I think they are just looking out for you and asking you to perhaps think about what you are eating and your weight before it goes too far

[Scarlett]

Certain brands of the pill will make you gain weight. You can ask the doctor if the pill is likely to be causing the weight gain- don't be too hard on yourself! Also, the more overweight you are, the more the pill MAY NOT be as effective. (It's a bit like hair dye- if you have very long or thick hair they recommend using 2 bottles.) Also, with weight gain CAN come increase in blood pressure, which can be dangerous if you are also taking the pill.

They are just trying to monitor you. Why not suggest trying a different brand of pill, which won't make you gain weight?

[Rach4018]

I think that if you are over a certain weight the mini pill doesn't work as well as it should. I not sure about other types of pill. They wouldn't refuse you the pill i'm sure they just want to make sure you are on the right one that works properley for you.

[hannahjo]

I�ve heard that if you are very over weight then you have to take two pills, instead of just one, for it to be effective. They may be a bit insensitive but I�m sure it�s for you benefit. If you�re happy with your weight then that�s the main thing!

[boobesque]

my gp always told me that he has to keep an eye on my weight cos if you are very heavy then the pill can be dangerous, my size 10 best friend says that her gp always weighs her too, apparently the risk is very small now, but still needs to be checked.

[chazza]

Just phone ahead and order a repeat prescription and then you wont have to see your GP at all!

[rach912]

Chazza i tried this once before and they said they couldn't do it with the pill? I have been on it for 4 years with no problems so I don't know why?

[chazza]

Really?  how strange, i always do that and have never been refused!  It obviously depends on the surgery

[AliFlump]

Just read in a problem page about a girl who was refused the pill because she was obese, this was because being on the pill increases the risk of blood clots in overweight people, so thats why they weigh us!