Q:

Hey, what's up, doc?

Here's my question:

I am a female student with what seems to be a naturally bigger build. I am healthy, and do not want to do anything that will negatively affect my health in seeking a lower body fat percentage, but such is my desire. I am also taking birth control (progestin only)--I have been since puberty.

Is it possible that, even though I am on a rigorous (but not excessive) exercise regimen and have a VERY healthy diet, this medication has been making me hold on to an excess of fat or water? Would switching to an IUD with a localized dosage or progestin make a difference?

 

A:

Probably not. You could try off synthetic hormones for a few months, using barrier contraceptives only, to see if there is any difference in your weight, but it may make most sense to have an evaluation with our dietician, Jill Kelly, and also a screening to make sure you have normal thyroid function.

~The Doc