What could be a reason for weight gain and mood changes in a woman using oral contraceptives?

• A. Too little estrogen
• B. Too much estrogen
• C. Too little progestin
• D. Too much progestin

Answer: (D)

Weight gain and mood changes in a woman using oral contraceptives can be attributed to hormonal imbalances, particularly when there is an excess of progestin. Progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, can affect the body's metabolism and fluid retention, leading to weight gain. In addition, high levels of progestin can influence neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially resulting in mood changes such as increased irritability or depressive symptoms.

Maintaining a proper balance of hormones is critical for minimizing side effects. An excess of progestin may overwhelm the body’s natural regulatory responses, leading to adverse effects.

Understanding the role of other hormones, such as estrogen and the balance between estrogen and progestin, is also important, but in this context, too much progestin is specifically linked to the symptoms described.