Hormonal contraception – does it cause weight gain?

Dear Doctor,

I am 24 years old and I have been in a relationship for a few weeks and after having had an accident with the condom I inquired about other methods of contraception. My partner and I took the tests for STIs which were negative for both of us. My gynecologist advises me to take hormonal contraception (either the pill, the implant or an IUD). My friends advise me against hormonal contraception, because they have heard that it makes you gain weight. What do you think ? Does hormonal contraception cause weight gain

Leila* *name anonymized

Dear Leila,

Many women are afraid of gaining weight

This is a very common and understandable question. Many of us have concerns about our weight, especially if we are experiencing changes in our bodies. However, there is a misconception that hormonal birth control is responsible for significant weight gain.

Studies have shown that hormonal birth control does not cause weight gain

Many studies have been conducted to assess this relationship between taking hormonal contraceptives and weight gain. Studies have shown that taking birth control pills does not cause significant weight gain. Some studies have even shown that women who used the pill had minimal changes in their weight.

Regarding the hormonal IUD or hormonal sticks, studies have also shown that the use of these contraceptive methods does not lead to significant weight gain.

There is no accumulation of blood in your belly in case of amenorrhea under hormonal contraception

Some hormonal birth control can make your period go away. Especially for women who suffer from pain during menstruation or who bleed profusely during menstruation this is an advantage. This is a completely normal reaction of your body and this change is harmless to you. Contrary to what some people imagine, there is no accumulation of blood in your belly and your belly does not grow if hormonal contraception makes your period disappear.

Every body reacts differently to hormonal birth control

It is important to note that every body is different and reacts differently to hormonal birth control. For this reason, if a woman notices unexplainable weight gain, it is important that she sees her gynecologist. This can be due to a variety of factors that are unrelated to hormonal birth control.

Consult your gynecologist if you notice changes in her weight that seem unexplained

In summary, taking the pill, hormone spiral or hormone sticks does not cause significant weight gain. However, every woman is unique and it is important to see her gynecologist if she notices changes in her weight that seem unexplained.

I hope this answer has helped you better understand this important question. I encourage all women to discuss all aspects of their reproductive health with their gynecologist in more detail.