Hana pill and weight gaining

How our community feel hana pill has affected their weight

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

No change

55%

Don't know

25%

Out of the 20 reviews for hana pill, 4 people (20%) reported weight gaining.

Reviewers that reported weight gaining as a side effect

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Used for 18 mo - 3 yr
Lowdown user
🇬🇧 UK
  •  11th Aug 24

Hana has worked like a charm for me. I was a bit worried about starting it, as I had a horrendous experience with the combined pill, but my periods are heavy and painful, and I just couldn't stand it anymore. Not getting pregnant was a reason to start Hana, but I was mostly looking for period relief, and it really has delivered. At the beginning I had a few unusual periods - some shorter, some longer, and a bit irregular, but they were immediately lighter and less painful. After about 3 months, things had evened out, and now 2.5 years later, I can't even remember the last time I had a period, only that it lasted about a day or so and was so light I barely even needed a pad. My partner and I have had no pregnancy scares, and it works wonderfully for me. I think my mood is absolutely fine - it felt maybe a tiny bit flat at the beginning, but more because it was no longer fluctuating so much during my cycle. Now it's like I get to be at the end of the first week after my period, all the time. My main negative with starting Hana is that it really increased my appetite at the beginning - about 6 hours after taking it, I *had to* eat snacks. It felt impossible not to. This contributed to some weight gain, and while I've gotten used to the snack-attacks now and can manage them, I haven't been able to shift the weight, despite using methods of weight loss that have worked for me in the past. I can't say for sure if this is because Hana is making it harder for me to lose weight, or if it's just because I'm getting older. I am currently contemplating taking a break from Hana to see if I can lose the weight off it, but I'm reluctant to as it has had such a positive impact on my quality life. If you're also experiencing an increase in appetite, and want some advice, it really helped me to change the time I take Hana - I moved it to later, so that my craving hits much closer to dinner time, which is perfect. All in all, Hana has worked much better for me than I could've even hoped, and I would recommend trying it to see if it works for you.

Read more

Decreased sex drive

1 more effect

0 helpful

0 comments

Used for 1 - 3 mo
Lowdown user
🇬🇧 UK
  •  3rd Sep 23

I deeply appreciate the ease it took for me to get this medication. The pharmacist helped me understand what I was getting, and the pharmacist was so kind and helping ease my fears. She actually recommended that I go to my GP if I want to remain on this medication because the GP can prescribe it for free. The side effects were horrific and got worse the longer I was on them. I got halfway through my second pack before I genuinely couldn't do it anymore. I was sweating so much I was having to shower three times a day, my tummy was hard and distended. My anxiety got so bad I couldn't bring myself to even open my curtains and I couldn't even self-soothe. I was writing on a whiteboard and my head felt it was about to explode. Multiple times it felt like my eyes were coming up from my socket (this side effect is not written on any slip and I believe it is described as having difficulty putting contact lenses in, I don't wear contact lenses but my eyes fell out they were coming out) I thought after I finished my first month things would get easier, They didn't The side effects just got worse and worse and worse. To the point I was considering calling for an ambulance because I had a severe migraine with an aura that lasted for 3 days (I have not experienced one since stopping Hana) Just because Hana doesn't work for you don't write off all birth control. After some trial and error I have found something that works for me. I am sad that Hana caused me so much grief because it fitted in so well with my lifestyle, being able to walk into any pharmacy and getting it over the counter.


Very negative mood

2 more effects

1 helpful

1 comments

Used for 6 - 12 mo
Lowdown user
🇬🇧 UK
  •  24th Oct 22

I have been on Hana for the past 10 months. It started with a massive breakthrough bleed, and then as the months have gone on, my periods have become more irregular, later and lighter. This month my period has stopped altogether. Me and my partner use Hana, condoms and the pull out method as I really don't want to get pregnant. Having been on this pill, I've had a lower sex drive and lower mood.


Somewhat negative mood

2 more effects

6 helpful

0 comments

Hana pill common side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

39% of hana pill reviewers reported period like cramps

39% of hana pill reviewers reported headaches

35% of hana pill reviewers reported sweating more than usual

30% of hana pill reviewers reported nausea or vomiting

30% of hana pill reviewers reported tender breasts


Possible hana pill side effects

Data is taken from self reported Lowdown user reviews

Order online

Order online now

Use our online prescription in under 5 mins

  • No GP appointment needed

  • Free standard delivery

Speak to a doctor

Not sure yet? Speak to a doctor

Schedule an appointment now

87% of women are happier with their contraceptive choice after speaking with one of The Lowdown's doctors

The Lowdown Footer

Women's health, reviewed.

Get the best women’s health info in your inbox

You are signing up to receive The Lowdown's latest findings and news in women's health. Your data will be used in accordance with our Privacy & Cookie policy

Built by doctors and experts

Our tools are made by medical professionals for your peace of mind

Our website uses affiliate links and we may earn a small commission if you click on them