This pilot study examines the effect of stabilizing ovarian hormones on eating behaviors and
brain activation in women with binge eating (n=15) using functional magnetic resonance
imaging (fMRI) and behavioral tests. This is completed by taking oral contraceptives (birth
control) continuously for three months. Prior to medication administration and at the end of
treatment, eating behaviors will be measured and fMRI will be conducted in order to examine
changes in activation in dopamine-reward pathways that occur with oral contraceptive
administration. This will assess changes in brain activation that occur with the
stabilization of ovarian hormones.