birth control options for larger women

Noney · Sep 10, 2003

I know I read somewhere that the patch isn't as effective for women over 200#. Wouldn't you think they would dose the patches accordingly?

Noney

SmilingBluEyes · Sep 10, 2003

My UNDERSTANDING is diaphragms and nuva rings can be fitted individually. As far as hormonal b.c., I have no idea at what weight the efficacy is reduced. This is a very good question; one I am ashamed to say I have not deeply considered as an OB Nurse!!!! (shame on me). I am NOW going to do some serious research. After my morning coffee, that is.

Chttynurs · Sep 10, 2003

I started the patch (and a diet, I might add) a couple of months ago and LOVE it, BUT the 'weight limit' according to the pharmacy info I got was 198#......I weigh 209#. I wrote the drug company for more info, to see if I would be safe wearing it. They couldn't answer my question! I was surprised, they said I needed to ask my doc. So now my boyfriend and I just use a condom too until I lose a few pounds. I always used the pill before this though, never got pregnant. :)

rpbear · Sep 10, 2003

I have had an IUD for 5 years now and I think it is great! It hurt like heck to get put in, but since then smooth sailing! The one I have is good for ten years. An IUD is not a great option for a woman who is not in a monogamous realtionship. Doesn't protect aganst STD's and there is an increased risk of PID.

You should talk to your GYN about all the options for you. I played around with several types for two years before getting the IUD. All the types that had homones made me throw up! My GYN was great about working with me to find an option that was right for me. (I had just had an "unplanned" child and didn't want another!)

Good Luck!

CashewLPN, LPN · Sep 10, 2003

excellent info, thank you all!

--Barbara

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Sep 11, 2003

Supposedly the patch isn't as effective on larger women since the med level isn't enough. Do what i did when i was big: get a second, third opinion and still use a condom.

legsmalone, RN · Sep 11, 2003

Now here is my question, I am not overwieght, I am 6'1" tall, and I do NOT weigh 130 pounds. Should I assume that the patch would not be the best option for me?

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Sep 11, 2003

Originally posted by legsmalone
Now here is my question, I am not overwieght, I am 6'1" tall, and I do NOT weigh 130 pounds. Should I assume that the patch would not be the best option for me?

That's why i said three opinions. Some say it doesn't make a difference, others say it does.

talldollNYC · Sep 11, 2003

Not to assume that our bodies are just alike, legsmalone, but I'm 6'1, weigh 160lbs, and have been on the patch for over a year and have had no problems at all. I've had far fewer nasty mood swings/weight gain/breakthrough bleeding than I did with the pill.

Good luck.

BrandyBSN · Sep 11, 2003

you know, i never really thought about that... ive been on Depo, and switched to pills 5 years ago, no pregnancy, and i am definetly not "ideal weight". No Doctor ever mentioned weight limits on effective doses of medications.

hmmmmm.....

CashewLPN, LPN · Sep 11, 2003

hmm... on the Depo shots, do you get your period at all?

(got an appointment on monday morning, for the 'discussion of the century' for me...)

Interestedly yours

--Barbara