Which Birth Control Causes the Most Weight Gain?

Which Birth Control Causes the Most Weight Gain?

Many people worry about weight gain when using birth control. While some contraceptives may cause fluid retention or increase appetite, most studies do not show a direct link between hormonal birth control and fat gain. However, some methods have a higher potential for weight-related changes than others.

Let’s break down which birth control methods may contribute to weight gain, why this happens, and what you can do about it.

Can Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?

Birth control methods that contain hormones (estrogen and progestin) can affect appetite, metabolism, and water retention. Some people experience temporary weight gain, while others see no change at all.

Weight gain with birth control can be due to:

1. Increased appetite → Some hormonal contraceptives (especially those with progestin) may make you feel hungrier.

2. Water retention → Estrogen and progestin can cause the body to hold onto fluids, making you feel bloated.

3. Fat redistribution → Some contraceptives may alter how fat is stored, especially in areas like the hips, thighs, and abdomen.

4. Metabolism changes → Some studies suggest that certain birth control methods can slightly slow metabolism.

While some short-term weight gain may occur, research shows that most hormonal contraceptives do not lead to long-term fat accumulation.

Birth Control Methods Most Likely to Cause Weight Gain

Some contraceptives are more likely than others to lead to weight gain. The methods with the strongest links to weight gain include:

1. Medroxyprogesterone Injection

• This is an injectable birth control shot given every three months.

• Most studies show that Medroxyprogesterone Injection is the birth control method most strongly associated with weight gain.

• Women may gain an average of 5 to 10 pounds in the first year, and some gain even more with continued use.

• How it causes weight gain:

  • Increases appetite significantly.

  • May slow metabolism, leading to increased fat storage.

  • Some users report feeling less energetic, leading to lower physical activity.

What to Do?

• If you are worried about weight gain, you might consider switching to another method.

• If you want to stay on , monitor your diet and exercise to counteract weight gain.

2. Birth Control Implants (Implanon/Nexplanon)

• A small rod placed under the skin that releases progestin for up to 3 years.

• Some users report mild weight gain (2–4 pounds in the first year).

• How it causes weight gain:

  • May increase appetite in some users.

  • Slight fluid retention, but less than the Depo-Provera shot.

What to Do?

• Most weight changes with implants are mild and stabilize over time.

• If weight gain is a concern, switching to a non-hormonal method (like a copper IUD) may help.

3. Birth Control Pills (Combination Pills and Mini-Pills)

• Most birth control pills do not cause long-term weight gain.

• Some people may retain water or feel bloated for the first few months, but this usually goes away.

• How it may cause weight gain:

  • Estrogen can cause fluid retention, leading to bloating.

  • Some progestins may slightly increase appetite.

What to Do?

• If you experience bloating, consider switching to a low-dose estrogen pill (like those containing drospirenone, which has a mild diuretic effect).

• The mini-pill (progestin-only pill) may cause less bloating than combination pills.

4. Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla)

• Releases low-dose progestin directly into the uterus.

• Less likely to cause weight gain than injections or implants.

• How it may cause weight gain:

  • Mild fluid retention in some users.

  • May slightly increase appetite in some cases.

What to Do?

• If you experience weight gain, check if it’s due to water retention, which usually goes away in a few months.

• Consider switching to a copper IUD, which does not contain hormones.

Birth Control Methods Least Likely to Cause Weight Gain

If you are concerned about weight gain, these options may be better choices:

Non-hormonal Copper IUD (ParaGard) → No hormones, no effect on metabolism or appetite.
Birth Control Patch or Ring (NuvaRing, Xulane) → Lower chance of weight gain compared to Depo-Provera.
Low-dose Estrogen Pills → May reduce bloating due to mild diuretic effect.
Barrier Methods (Condoms, Diaphragm, Cervical Cap) → No hormones, no effect on weight.

How to Manage Weight While on Birth Control

If you are gaining weight and suspect birth control might be the cause, here’s what you can do:

✔ Give Your Body Time → Some weight gain (bloating or water retention) is temporary and disappears in a few months.
✔ Monitor Your Appetite → If you feel hungrier, try to eat high-fiber, protein-rich foods to stay full longer.
✔ Stay Active → Regular exercise (even walking 30 minutes daily) can help maintain weight.
✔ Drink Plenty of Water → Helps reduce bloating and water retention.
✔ Talk to Your Doctor → If weight gain continues, switching to another method may help.

Final Thoughts: Which Birth Control Causes the Most Weight Gain?

Among all contraceptives, Medroxyprogesterone Injection (the birth control shot) has the strongest link to weight gain, followed by hormonal implants. Birth control pills, IUDs, and the ring generally have minimal effects on weight, though some people experience temporary bloating.

If weight gain is a concern, consider switching to a method with fewer hormonal effects (like a copper IUD or low-dose pill). Always talk to your doctor to find the best option for your body.

References

1. Berenson, A. B., Rahman, M., & Wilkinson, G. S. (2009). Weight gain associated with injectable progestin contraception. Obstetrics & Gynecology Journal.

2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Birth Control and Weight Gain: Myths and Facts. 2023.

3. World Health Organization (WHO). Contraceptive Use and Health Effects. 2022.

4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contraceptive Efficacy and Side Effects. Updated 2023.

5. Lopez, L. M., Ramesh, S., Chen, M., et al. (2016). Progestin-only contraceptives: effects on weight. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.