Is weight gain normal on low dose birth control pills?

Yes: Many women and their clinicians believe that oral contraceptives cause weight gain. However, available data suggest that this is not the case.In a systematic review of 44 trials (only 3 of which had a placebo group), there was no evidence to support a causal relationship between combination ocp use and weight gain. That being said, available data may not be capturing the effect of ocps on weight.

No more than 2-3 lbs: Typically long term weight gain is not associated with low dose birth control pills. Upon starting a new pill there may be temporary fluid retention resulting in a 2-3 lb weight gain throught the first 2 to 3 packs of pills. This usually abates with long term use.