Fact: Researchers have found no evidence that birth control pills cause weight gain. While this is true today, this wasn’t always the case. When birth control pills first came out in the 1960s, they had higher levels of estrogen, which can, in fact, cause weight gain. But today’s birth control pills have much fewer hormones, so weight gain is not likely.
Taking the pill, or any hormonal birth control, may cause fluid retention before your period. This can cause you to gain a few pounds, but it should go away once your period is over.
Though it’s rare, some people can gain weight on the pill. If that happens to you, talk to your provider about it. They can help you find a different birth control method that works better for you.