Losing weight on the pill

Birth control does not usually make people gain weight and there is no proven link between contraceptives and weight gain. Whether or not you experience weight gain on contraception can depend on a number of factors such as:

• which contraceptive treatment you are on
• age
• diet
• lifestyle
• other health conditions

Non-hormonal birth control

Non-hormonal forms of birth control like the copper coil, diaphragm, or condoms do not actively cause weight gain because they do not impact the body’s internal functions the same way that hormonal contraception does.

Combined pill and mini pill

There are 2 types of hormonal contraceptive pills:

1. The combined pill, which contains synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone (a combination of 2 hormones).
2. The progesterone-only pill (POP) also known as the ‘mini pill’, which only contains a synthetic progesterone.

Hormonal contraceptive pills containing synthetic versions of oestrogen are known to increase fluid retention, which may also cause bloating. This is often mistaken for weight gain.

Synthetic versions of progesterone can sometimes increase appetite, leading to cravings which can result in weight gain. However, modern contraceptive pills often do not contain high enough doses of either hormone to cause these side effects.

There is also no conclusive scientific evidence that either medication causes weight gain. A review of 49 different studies on the combined pill found that the medication had no large effect on weight gain and was unable to establish a link between the two. Likewise, for progesterone-only pills, a review of 16 trials did not find strong evidence to prove a link between the medication and significant weight gain.

Despite the research, weight gain is a commonly reported side effect of contraceptive pills and it’s widely believed that birth control can cause weight gain. Many people do experience changes in their weight when they start taking contraceptive pills but this is usually only temporarily as your body adjusts to the medication.

Contraceptives work to prevent pregnancy by mimicking the natural hormones progesterone and oestrogen. Alongside other factors like your age and weight, the fluctuation and shifting of these hormones can cause effects which may result in weight changes.

Here is a brief overview on how oestrogen and progesterone can cause weight fluctuations:

Oestrogen

High levels of oestrogen can cause fluid retention, particularly in the hips, breasts and thighs, though this is temporary. This may cause the body to store more fat.

Lower levels of oestrogen (for example, during the menopause) can cause an increase in body fat. This may also cause a reduction in muscle mass.

Progesterone

Low levels of progesterone, when coupled with higher levels of oestrogen can lead to increases in appetite, and slowed down metabolism which can cause weight gain.

Can all birth control cause weight gain?

No, there is no clinical evidence that contraceptive pills cause weight gain, they may only cause hormonal fluctuations which can result in temporary changes in weight gain.

Certain contraceptives like Depo-Provera (a contraceptive injection) can cause weight gain by increasing fat mass. Weight gain is often less than 4.4lbs or 2.2kg over 1 to 2 years. However, this varies from person to person, as weight loss has also been reported on this injection too.

The progesterone-only pill is not believed to cause substantial weight gain, but some women may experience minimal weight gain while taking this medication. Most weight gain is unlikely to be related to this pill and is usually due to other factors like age, menopause, or lifestyle.

People with other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or diabetes may be more likely to experience changes in their weight than others when using hormonal birth control.

There is no evidence to suggest that women who are obese are more likely to experience weight gain or changes in body composition on contraceptive pills.

No contraception is known to directly cause weight loss. However, individual reactions to different contraceptives vary widely. Some women do report weight loss on contraceptive pills, although this is much less reported than weight gain.

There are several possible reasons for weight loss, including less fluid retention, appetite suppression, or metabolic changes in the body.

Possible reasons for weight loss during contraception may include:

Changes in fluid retention

Contraceptive pills can affect how the body manages water weight and retains fluids. Most women experience an increase in fluid retention on birth control and perceive this as weight gain but others may see a loss of excess water weight.

The combined pill Yasmin is often mentioned in regards to less fluid retention. This is because it contains drospirenone, an alternative to progesterone, that can act as a mild diuretic (a medication that makes you urinate) making you lose water weight.

Effects on the metabolism

Certain contraceptive pills might affect the body’s metabolic rate (the amount of energy you need to maintain normal bodily functions like breathing).

Female reproductive hormones and metabolism are closely linked, so hormonal contraceptive pills could impact processes like how efficiently the body burns calories. This could contribute to weight loss in some individuals, however any impact is likely to be small.

Appetite suppression

Some women who take contraceptive pills may experience a reduction in their appetite. The synthetic hormones in oral contraceptives are believed to influence hunger hormones. If your appetite is suppressed then you may consume less calories, potentially leading to weight loss.

Despite these causes of weight loss while on contraceptive pills, overall, it’s impossible to say that any contraception has a significant impact on weight loss or weight gain. Any weight loss seen on birth control is often coincidental or temporary.

There is no form of birth control that is specifically designed to avoid weight gain or to promote weight loss. However, there are some options that have minimal impact on weight or carry less chance of causing weight gain. For instance, the best birth control options to avoid weight gain would be physical, non-hormonal contraceptives. This is because they do not impact your body’s hormones, and female hormones play a role in fat and muscle storage, body composition, and fluid retention. Options include:

Non-hormonal IUD or copper coil

An IUD is a form of birth control that works by stopping sperm from fertilising an egg, can last up to 10 years, and is very effective (over 99%). The IUD is different from an IUS (intra-uterine system) as this is a hormonal form of contraception that releases progesterone.

The IUD does not cause weight gain because it’s a physical form of contraception that does not affect your hormones. It’s a good option for those concerned about the impact hormonal fluctuations can have on body weight and might be the best option for those trying to avoid any weight gain.

Low-oestrogen combined pills

Low-oestrogen combined pills can be a good option for those looking to avoid weight gain on the pill. Combined pills contain both progesterone and oestrogen. High levels of oestrogen are sometimes linked to weight gain, so, there are certain combined pills that contain lower doses of oestrogen than traditional pills, which might reduce the risk of side effects like weight gain.

Hormonal contraceptive options like low-oestrogen pills are reliable and can be a good choice to lower the risk of gaining weight.

Condoms or diaphragms (barrier methods of contraception)

Barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms are types of contraception that physically block sperm from reaching the egg. They have no impact on weight as they are only used during sex and do not affect your hormones.

Barrier methods like condoms cannot cause weight gain but these can be unreliable.

Monitoring your body’s responses

Another way to avoid weight gain on contraception is to monitor your body’s responses and change methods if you are unhappy with the side effects. You should always talk to a healthcare professional about your concerns as they can help find the best contraception for you.

If you’re concerned about weight gain on contraception, expert recommendations are available from your GP or ZAVA Online Doctor. For more advice, start your quick and easy online consultation:

Gaining weight on birth control is common, especially in the first 2 to 3 months as your body adjusts to the treatment. However, weight gain can be challenging for many, so here are some tips to help you to manage or lose weight on contraception:

Adjust your diet

Eat a healthy and balanced diet containing plenty of whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. A nutritious diet can help to regulate hormonal function that might be affected by your birth control.

Avoid processed food and sugars wherever possible. Foods that are highly-processed, high in sugar, salt, or fat can all contribute to fluid retention and cause bloating and weight gain.

Restrict your calorie intake, if necessary. Eating within a calorie deficit is a good way to lose weight if this is your goal. Portion control can also help you to deal with the cravings that often increase when on birth control. Eating more frequent, smaller meals may reduce weight gain or bloating.

Exercise regularly

Exercising more regularly can help you control your weight as you get used to birth control. 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least 5 days each week is recommended and this could be walking, running, swimming, aerobics, or other sports and activities.

A combination of cardio and strength exercises may be the best way to combat bloating, fluid retention, or weight gain on the pill.

Lifestyle changes

Managing stress levels on birth control is important. Menopause can cause high levels of stress. Being stressed can increase cortisol levels, often causing cravings for sweet, salty, or fatty foods, which can contribute to weight gain.

Get good quality sleep as this helps to regulate appetite and can also help the metabolism to work effectively. Not getting enough sleep on birth control may increase cravings and hormonal imbalances that might be causing weight gain. Try sticking to a sleep schedule – having a consistent bedtime will help you get the recommended 8 hours of sleep.

Being consistent with lifestyle changes including a healthy diet and exercise is more important than being intense. Although consistency is challenging, do not worry about being perfect. Instead focus on habit-forming and avoid restricting your food intake too drastically or trying to follow unrealistic diets.

Water retention vs weight gain

Recognising the difference between actual weight gain and water retention is key to managing your weight on birth control. Many experience more water retention in the first few months on birth control and it is a common cause of weight fluctuations. This is normal and should go away on its own as you get used to the medication.

Signs of water retention include:

• bloating
• swollen ankles
• looking or feeling more ‘puffy’
• weighing just a few pounds heavier

Signs of actual weight gain include:

• more gradual weight gain
• weighing more than a few pounds heavier

Gaining weight due to birth control is due to an increase in body fat, not water. If you do notice persistent weight gain, you should first assess your eating and exercise habits. Consider whether lifestyle or birth control is the biggest contributor to weight gain.

4. Monitor your body’s responses to contraception

If you are taking a hormonal method of contraception then it’s important that you allow your body time to adjust to the medication. Remember that some weight gain on birth control is normal and common due to fluctuations in body composition and water retention. You should try to monitor your weight by how you look and feel.

Don’t be disheartened by the scale as it’s often not a realistic reflection of weight gain. Women’s weight fluctuates during different times of the menstrual cycle and when taking contraception.

If you do notice significant changes in your weight after some time on contraception, talk to your prescriber about your options or finding a better fit.

When to consider switching your contraception

It might be time for you to think about switching your contraception and speaking to your doctor or prescriber if you’re experiencing any of the following:

• persistent water retention – water retention (swelling or bloating) that does not go away
• significant weight gain – substantial weight gain that is not water retention (your birth control could be affecting your body composition or metabolism)
• no improvement after lifestyle changes – if you have changed your lifestyle and improved your diet and exercise regime but are still experiencing weight gain

In summary, the best way to manage your weight on birth control is by combining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, everyone responds differently to different types of birth control so do not be afraid to ask to switch contraceptives if you’re struggling with weight gain or other side effects.

If you stop taking oral contraceptive pills, you may see changes in your weight. You’re unlikely to see a large amount of weight loss when you stop taking the pill but you may experience some fluctuations in your weight, and this can happen for a number of reasons, including:

1. Changes to your metabolism – hormonal birth control can affect your metabolism because both oestrogen and progesterone affect how the body processes food and stores fat. When you stop taking contraceptive pills your metabolism will slowly return to its natural state which can cause small, often temporary changes in your weight.
2. Water retention – contraceptive pills, especially those containing oestrogen can cause fluid retention and an increase in ‘water weight’. As you stop taking the pill you should notice decreases in fluid retention helping you to feel less bloated or puffy and you may see small changes in your weight.
3. Appetite regulation – contraceptive pills can affect the appetite and cause cravings or increased hunger. When you come off the pill you may notice these side effects go away, which can contribute to weight loss if your eating habits change accordingly.

How to manage weight fluctuation after coming off the pill

Coming off the pill can cause fluctuations in your weight. The best way to deal with this is to be patient as your body adjusts to the change. Any changes are usually temporary as your hormones return to their natural balance. A nutrient-rich diet, plenty of sleep, regular exercise, and taking care of your mental health can all help you as you adjust to coming off the pill.

In addition to weight fluctuations, birth control can have a number of other side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include:

• headaches
• nausea (feeling sick)
• irregular bleeding (spotting outside of your cycle)
• acne
• sore, tender breasts
• mood swings
• changes in libido (increase or decrease in sexual desire)
• tiredness or fatigue

If you’re worried about any particular side effects you should discuss them with your healthcare provider.

➤ You can find more information on ZAVA’s detailed guide on the side effects of contraceptive pills.

How long does birth control-related weight gain last?

Weight gain from birth control is likely to be temporary as your body adjusts to the treatment. For most, weight fluctuations last around 2 to 3 months.

Which birth control methods have the least impact on weight?

Non-hormonal forms of birth control have the least impact on weight. For example, the copper coil (a type of IUD) is believed not to cause weight gain as it does not affect your hormones and changes in the hormones are the biggest cause of weight gain.

However, IUDs are becoming less popular because many feel that they are invasive and increase the risk of UTIs and infections. Barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms (used short term, during sex) cannot impact your weight in any way. However, these methods are not wholly reliable and cause the most unwanted pregnancies.

Can switching birth control help with weight gain?

Your healthcare provider can work with you to find a better fit if you feel that your birth control is causing substantial weight gain. However, the best way to combat weight gain is always through lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and exercise. It’s also worth remembering that weight gain from birth control is often temporary and you may see improvement after some time on the medication.

How can I tell if birth control is affecting my weight?

There is no strong evidence to show that birth control definitely causes weight gain but if you’re still seeing weight gain after more than a few months on your contraception then talk to your doctor about switching or any possible underlying causes. You should also try:

• give your body time to adjust to your birth control as weight gain is often temporary
• looking for other changes in your appearance such as puffiness – sometimes what you think is weight gain is just water retention which should go away with time