Hi and thanks for your question.

Most forms of hormonal contraceptions, such as the pill, Implanon (the rod) and Depo Provera (injections), have weight gain as a listed side effect. This weight gain is usually minimal (a few kilos at the most) for most women, and some women may not have any weight gain at all. If you keep up a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and doing regular physical activity then you shouldn't notice much change at all. And it's far less weight gain than being pregnant, with most women gaining up to 12 kgs during pregnancy!

There are many types of contraception available, with the pill just being one of them. For a list and comparison of different types of contraception, have a look at the link below, or have a chat to a health professional at your local medical or sexual health clinic.

It's great that you and your friend can talk about this openly and that you are thinking about your health. Well done, and good luck with finding a type of contraception that best suits you.