Many women hold the belief that taking birth control options, particularly hormonal methods, cause weight gain. This common belief is often cited as a reason for discontinuing birth control. 

The perception of weight gain as a side effect is so widespread that, despite limited scientific evidence for a causal link, women often blame any weight changes during birth control on the medication, even if they result from normal bodily processes or lifestyle changes. 

Anecdotal evidence and personal experiences often influence these perceptions. Women might hear stories from friends, family, or online communities about birth control causing weight gain, leading them to expect it as a side effect. However, research indicates most hormonal contraceptives do not cause significant weight gain in most women.1

So, what are the facts about birth control and weight gain? Let’s dive deeper.

Does Birth Control Cause Weight Gain? What the Research Says

It’s a common concern among women: will starting birth control lead to extra kilos? Those considering contraception have heard anecdotes or misconceptions about birth control and weight gain. But it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here’s what you need to know, based on scientific evidence:

  • The Pill, Patch, and Ring:

For many women, combination hormonal contraceptives (like the pill, patch, or ring) are unlikely to cause significant weight gain. Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs) contain two hormones: oestrogen and progestin. Large reviews of multiple studies haven’t found a strong link between these methods and weight gain. While some women might notice small fluctuations, these are often not clinically significant and could be due to other factors.2

  • Individual health history matter:

It’s essential to discuss individual health history and any pre-existing conditions that might be influencing weight. A thorough medical evaluation helps determine if there are alternative explanations for weight changes or if certain contraceptive options might be more suitable.

  • Lifestyle plays a key role:

Focusing on a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is crucial for overall well-being and can help manage weight regardless of contraceptive use.11 Lifestyle recommendations are important to incorporate into the conversation.

  • Open communication is key: 

It is important to voice any concerns about side effects, including perceived weight gain, and to seek clarification on any information from your healthcare expert. It is important to feel supported in making informed decisions about your reproductive health.

Consult now with your Aussie-based healthcare provider for personalised advice and to discuss contraceptive pill treatment options for you.

Exploring the Link Between Specific Birth Control Types and Weight Gain

Do any specific birth control types show a stronger association with weight gain?The evidence for a causal relationship between any specific birth control type and weight gain is limited and often contradictory. Many studies have methodological limitations, making it challenging to draw definitive conclusions. Let’s explore:

Birth Control Shot (DMPA)

Some studies highlight depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), also known as the birth control shot, as potentially having a stronger association with weight gain compared to other methods. 

  • A retrospective study found that women using DMPA had greater weight gain over three years compared to those using the copper IUD.3
  • Another study found that adolescents using DMPA had a greater increase in body fat percentage and a decrease in lean body mass compared to those not using hormonal contraception.4

However, it’s important to note that not all studies on DMPA and weight show consistent results. The quality of evidence is often graded as low due to limitations like retrospective design, high loss to follow-up, or lack of adjustment for confounding factors.

Hormonal IUD (LNG-IUD)

A couple of studies suggest that the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUD), a type of hormonal IUD, might be associated with a greater increase in body fat mass compared to non-hormonal methods. These studies also showed a greater decrease in lean body mass among LNG-IUD users. However, similar to DMPA, more research is needed to confirm these findings, as the studies had limitations like small sample sizes.5

Other Hormonal Contraceptives

For other types of hormonal contraceptives, including the pill, patch, ring, implant, and progestin-only pill, the evidence for a significant impact on weight is generally weak. Many studies show no significant differences in weight change between users of these methods and those using non-hormonal methods or placebos.6

Important Considerations

  • Correlation does not equal causation: Just because some studies show an association between a specific contraceptive type and weight change doesn’t mean that the contraceptive caused the weight change. Other factors could be contributing.
  • Individual responses to hormonal contraception can vary widely. Even if a particular method has been linked to weight gain in some studies, it doesn’t mean everyone who uses that method will gain weight.
  • Discuss with a healthcare provider: It’s essential to discuss your individual circumstances and concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits of different contraceptive options based on your health history and preferences.

What Causes Weight Gain?

Several factors influence weight gain, including biological processes, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions:

Age-related metabolic slowdown: As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down. This can lead to weight gain if dietary habits and physical activity levels remain unchanged.17

Hormonal Shifts:

  • Menopause: During menopause, reduced oestrogen levels can cause fat to be stored around the waist rather than on the hips and thighs, leading to increased weight gain.7
  • Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): An underactive thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones, slowing down metabolism and potentially causing weight gain.8
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS can disrupt hormone balance, leading to insulin resistance. The body then doesn’t use insulin efficiently, leading to increased insulin and androgen levels, which can cause weight gain, especially around the belly or abdominal area.9,10

Medications: Some medications can contribute to weight gain as a side effect. These include corticosteroids, antidepressants, seizure medications, and some drugs used to treat bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and diabetes.16

Calorie Imbalance: Consuming more calories than the body burns through activity can lead to weight gain. This can occur due to oversized food portions, unhealthy food choices, stress, emotional eating, and inadequate sleep.12

Genetic Predisposition: Genetics play a role in obesity. While genes can directly cause obesity in specific disorders, they can also increase a person’s susceptibility to weight gain.15

Managing Weight Gain

While the link between most hormonal birth control and weight gain is minimal, it’s still important to be proactive about your health. Whether you’re on birth control or not, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being. Here are a few tips to help you manage your weight effectively:

  1. Dietary Modifications: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and low-fat dairy products.11
  2. Regular Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity to help manage weight effectively.11
  3. Address Underlying Medical Conditions: Seek medical advice for conditions like hypothyroidism, PCOS, or Cushing’s syndrome.13
  4. Lifestyle Modifications: Prioritise sleep and manage stress to minimise weight gain.14

Remember: Sustainable weight management is a journey, not a quick fix. Consult with an Australian-based healthcare provider today for personalised advice and ongoing support.

Wrapping It Up!

The relationship between birth control pills and weight gain is a topic surrounded by myths and misconceptions. While some individuals might experience slight weight fluctuations, extensive studies suggest that long-term significant weight gain is not a common side effect of these contraceptives. 

If you’re considering starting or switching birth control, talk now to your Aussie-based doctor or nurse practitioner today about your contraceptive pill treatment. 

References:

  1. Nappi RE, Pellegrinelli A, Campolo F, et al. Effects of combined hormonal contraception on health and wellbeing: Women’s knowledge in northern Italy. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care. 2014;20(1):36-46. doi:https://doi.org/10.3109/13625187.2014.961598 
  2. Rosenberg MJ, Waugh MS, Meehan TE. Use and misuse of oral contraceptives: Risk indicators for poor pill taking and discontinuation. Contraception. 1995;51(5):283-288. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/0010-7824(95)00074-k
  3. Gilliam ML, Warden M, Goldstein C, Tapia B. Concerns about contraceptive side effects among young Latinas: A focus-group approach. Contraception. 2004;70(4):299-305. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.contraception.2004.04.013 
  4. Malhotra R, Østbye T, Riley CM, Finkelstein EA. Young adult weight trajectories through midlife by body mass category. Obesity. Published online May 2013:n/a-n/a. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20318 
  5. Mayeda ER, Torgal AH, Westhoff CL. Weight and Body Composition Changes During Oral Contraceptive Use in Obese and Normal Weight Women. Journal of Women’s Health. 2014;23(1):38-43. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2012.4241 
  6. Lopez LM, Ramesh S, Chen M, et al. Progestin-only contraceptives: effects on weight. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2016;8. doi:https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd008815.pub4 
  7. Menopause and weight gain | betterhealth.vic.gov.au. www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/menopause-and-weight-gain 
  8. Better Health Channel. Thyroid – hypothyroidism. Vic.gov.au. Published 2012. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/thyroid-hypothyroidism 
  9. Office on Women’s Health. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. womenshealth.gov. Published February 22, 2021. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome 
  10. John Hopkins Medicine. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). John Hopkins Medicine. Published 2019. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos 
  11. Health Direct. A balanced diet. Healthdirect.gov.au. Published April 10, 2018. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/balanced-diet 
  12. Westerterp-Plantenga MS. Sleep, circadian rhythm and body weight: parallel developments. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 2016;75(4):431-439. doi:https://doi.org/10.1017/s0029665116000227 
  13. Mayo Clinic. Cushing syndrome – symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Published June 7, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cushing-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351310 
  14. Newsom R. Why Is Sleep So Important to Weight Loss? Sleep Foundation. Published October 9, 2020. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/weight-loss-and-sleep 
  15. Redirecting. Elsevier.com. Published 2024. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0828282X07710024 
  16. Wharton S, Raiber L, Serodio K, Lee J, Christensen RA. Medications that cause weight gain and alternatives in Canada: a narrative review. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy. 2018;Volume 11:427-438. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/dmso.s171365 
  17. MedlinePlus. Ageing changes in body shape: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. Medlineplus.gov. Published 2017. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003998.htm