My doctor recently prescribed the birth control pill Lo-Ovral to lessen my menstrual cramps and lighten my flow, but I'm scared to take it because of fear of weight gain. I'm trying to lose 40 pounds right now, and gaining more doesn't sound very nice. Is it possible to lose weight while on the pill, or are my chances slim to none?

L.B.

Weight loss while on the pill occurs as often as weight gain! Most studies using today's current formulations have not shown any significant increase in weight from the pill, nor any differences among the various brands. Weight gain has more to do with activity level and diet than it has with the pill. Eat sensibly and exercise, and you should continue to lose weight while on Lo-Ovral.