Does Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?

The simplest answer is no, but it can be a little more complex.

Weight gain is a major concern for some people when they first start contraception, especially hormonal methods. However, hormonal birth control can affect people differently, and weight gain is not guaranteed. In fact, many people find that their weight stays the same.

Before deciding which type of contraception is right for you, it’s important to read the science behind the claims that birth control can cause weight gain.

Weight gain on the contraceptive pill and patch

Despite the strong belief that there is a link between the pill and weight gain, there is no conclusive evidence to prove this. A 2014 study found that among obese and healthy weight women who took the combined pill, there were no clinical or significant body weight changes after 3 to 4 months.

A further 2014 review found no consistent evidence that the combined pill or the patch leads to weight gain for most users. One trial involving an ethinylestradiol and norelgestromin patch found that it increased body weight by 1% after 6 months, however, this increase was not classed as clinically relevant.

Weight gain on hormonal contraceptive coil (IUS) and implant

The intrauterine system (IUS), also known as the Mirena coil, is a small device that’s inserted into the womb by a doctor or nurse. It works to stop pregnancy by steadily releasing progesterone locally in the womb. The implant, or Nexplanon, is a small rod that’s inserted under the skin and releases progesterone into the bloodstream.

Although the IUS is not associated with significant weight gain, some people report that their weight increased, but the scientific evidence for this is not strong.

A 2013 study investigating the effects of the hormonal implant and IUS found that after 12 months, the average weight change was 2.1kg in implant users and 1kg in those given the IUS. In another trial, the average weight increase in IUS users was 2.9kg after 1 year.

Despite these findings, a 2014 Cochrane review concluded that there was little evidence that progesterone-only contraceptives caused weight gain.

Does non-hormonal birth control cause weight gain?

Non-hormonal contraception, like condoms, diaphragms, and the intrauterine device (IUD) or copper coil, does not contain hormones. That means it does not affect the body in the same way as hormonal options and cannot cause weight gain.

If you experience weight gain while using a non-hormonal method, it’s important to consider other potential causes outside of contraception, such as your:

• diet
• activity levels
• stress
• underlying medical issues

Can birth control cause weight loss?

While it’s a less talked-about topic, no specific method of contraception can promote weight loss. However, the way your body responds to the hormones in popular contraceptive methods can vary.

If you experience weight loss while taking birth control, there are several reasons this could be happening, including:

Fluid retention changes

Some combined pills, like Yasmin, list weight changes as an uncommon side effect. Yasmin contains the artificial progesterone drospirenone, which acts similarly to the diuretic spironolactone. This means it helps your body get rid of excess water and sodium, which can reduce water retention and bloating, which may slightly reduce your body weight but not fat.

Appetite changes

Some people who take the contraceptive pill may experience a reduced appetite because the hormones they contain can influence hunger hormones. So, if you’re eating fewer calories, you may notice that you lose some weight.

Several factors may contribute to weight changes while using a particular type of contraception. These can include:

1. Age – As you get older, your metabolism slows down, which can contribute to weight gain.
2. Lifestyle – Certain lifestyle factors can have major effects on your weight. For example, your diet and exercise routines can affect the number on the scales. Although you may instantly think of a poor diet and a lack of exercise, lifting weights can result in muscle gain, and because muscle is denser than fat, it may increase your overall body weight.
3. Type of birth control – Some evidence suggests that the contraceptive injection can cause weight gain, 2.4kg on average, but those who started it earlier gained the most weight over time. Discussing your contraception options with a doctor can help you find the most suitable method for you.
4. Medical conditions – Pre-existing health conditions like PCOS, anxiety, or depression can also impact your weight.

How oestrogen and progesterone can affect weight

Hormonal contraceptives contain synthetic forms of oestrogen and/or progesterone, which can have different effects on the body.

Oestrogen causes temporary water retention and bloating as well as promoting fat storage, especially around the hips and breasts. However, these effects can vary widely from person to person.

Progesterone, on the other hand, can increase appetite and cause mild fluid retention. Progesterone-only contraceptives that contain high levels of the hormone have been linked to weight gain, but this is an exception.

It’s important to note that the body can adapt to hormonal changes over time, so any initial weight changes may stabilise or reverse within a few months.

Although weight gain is commonly reported, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that hormonal contraception, like the pill, patch, coil, or implant, causes it. However, weight gain can be challenging and may affect your birth control decisions. Here are some tips to help you manage your weight on birth control:

Be patient

It’s essential to allow your body time to adjust to the hormones, as you may experience increased water retention. Oestrogen can promote water retention, causing your body to store more fluid, which can impact your weight.

Water retention is usually not permanent and should subside within a few months as your body gets used to the medication.

Track your appetite

Progesterone may increase your appetite, causing you to consume more calories than usual, which can lead to weight gain. Try to keep track of how you're feeling, for example, by noting whether you feel more or less hungry, and how many calories you're consuming. This will help you identify if your appetite has changed since you started your contraceptive method.

Adjust your diet

It’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet, particularly when you are taking a hormonal contraceptive. Some of the things you can do include:

• choose whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
• avoid processed foods, like deli meat, burgers, bacon, and sausages
• avoid foods with a high refined sugar content, such as cakes, pastries, biscuits, and fizzy drinks
• avoid carbonated drinks, including sparkling water, which can increase bloating and make you feel uncomfortable
• restricting your calorie intake, especially if your appetite has increased

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help to keep your weight within a healthy range. Aim to complete 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, which could include activities such as:

• brisk walking
• jogging
• swimming
• team sports

Exercise can also help manage other symptoms, such as bloating and water retention, while supporting your mood and boosting your confidence.

Manage stress

Stress increases cortisol levels, a hormone that can stimulate appetite and contribute to weight gain. Try activities like mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to help keep stress to a minimum.

Also reach out to your support network, such as family or friends. If you find stress beginning to affect your day-to-day life, you should speak to your doctor, and they may suggest Talking Therapies.

Get good sleep

Sleep is an important appetite regulator and helps to keep your metabolism in check. Not getting enough sleep can increase your appetite, lead to cravings, and contribute to hormonal imbalances that may lead to weight gain.

Where possible, try sticking to a sleep schedule by going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. Keeping your room cool, clean, and quiet can also help.

Most people who use hormonal birth control do not gain significant weight. In fact, one study found that 72% of people experienced no change in weight after 4 months on the contraceptive pill, while 52% gained just 0.2kg (a normal fluctuation in weight from day to day).

Although some methods, like the contraceptive injection, may be more likely to cause weight changes, it’s important to remember that individual responses can vary.

If you’re worried about weight gain and birth control, you should discuss your concerns with a doctor. They can answer any questions you have and help you find the right contraception method based on your individual needs.

You can also request the contraceptive pill, patch, or vaginal ring from Superdrug Online Doctor quickly, easily, and discreetly. There’s no need for a face-to-face appointment, and our doctors are on hand to answer your questions. Alternatively, if you’re not sure which pill is right for you, they can help you make an informed decision. Once approved, we’ll deliver your medication to your home address in discreet, unmarked packaging, or you can collect it from your nearest Superdrug Pharmacy.