‍Introduction to Birth Control and Weight Loss

Birth control has long been a crucial aspect of women’s health, allowing them to take control of their reproductive choices and plan their families. However, one common concern among women using hormonal birth control methods is the potential for weight gain. It’s not uncommon for women to put off using birth control or switch methods due to fears of weight gain.

But is this concern justified? What is the best birth control to avoid weight gain?

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

Understanding the Connection Between Birth Control and Weight Gain

To understand the connection between birth control and weight gain, it is essential to know how various birth control methods work and their potential impact on the body. Hormonal contraceptives, such as the birth control pill, patch, and vaginal ring, release synthetic hormones into the body, sometimes leading to changes in appetite, metabolism, and water retention. [1]

These factors may contribute to weight gain in some individuals. However, the extent to which they do so can vary significantly depending on the specific contraceptive method and individual factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and diet.

Non-hormonal birth control methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs), do not release hormones and are considered the best birth control to avoid weight gain.

However, other factors, such as stress, changes in lifestyle, and underlying medical conditions, can still contribute to weight gain regardless of the contraceptive method used.

It is crucial to recognize that while there may be a connection between birth control and weight gain, this association is not universally experienced. Many individuals successfully use the best birth control to avoid weight gain.

Best Birth Control to Avoid Weight Gain

There are several birth control brands that don’t cause weight gain, but for detailed advice, you may want to use their free consultations with one of their healthcare professionals. Some of these options include:

1. Hers 

Hers provides an array of sexual wellness items and the best birth control for teens, including condoms, intimate lubricants, vibrators, treatments for yeast infections, and STI therapies.

• Licensed medical providers to guide you;
• Variety of birth control pills for different needs;
• Free shipping and on-time refills;

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2. Medzino 

Medizno is a certified online physician and pharmacy, adhering to all U.S. regulations and offering the best birth control for teens. With a team of expert pharmacists, they provide FDA-approved medications and deliver them inconspicuously to your doorstep through USPS.

• Fully certified doctors;
• Discrete packaging;
• Fast and free shipping

>>Check the best deals for Medzino

3. Nurx

Nurx ranks among the top online birth control pill delivery providers, boasting over 26,000 client testimonials. The company supplies the best birth control pill for teens and alternative contraceptives, such as rings, patches, and injections.

• More than 100 generic and name-brand birth control options.
• Variety of options for those who can’t take combination birth control.
• Emergency contraception is available.

>>Check the best deals for Nurx

4. Natural Cycles

The app is an alternative birth control option for individuals seeking to bypass methods such as medications, hormonal impacts, intrauterine devices (IUDs), or birth control implants. Natural Cycles employs an algorithm that utilizes daily basal body temperature and menstrual cycle data to estimate a person’s fertile days.

This monitoring approach is referred to as fertility awareness. Fertility windows typically occur a few days before or during ovulation.

• 100% Hormone-free
• No unwanted side effects
• FDA Cleared & CE Marked

>>Check what Natural Cycles has to offer

Non-hormonal IUDs

Copper IUDs do not release hormones and are less likely to cause weight gain than hormonal contraceptives. It’s been approved by the FDA for over thirty years and is considered one of the best birth control to avoid weight gain.

This approach is highly effective in preventing pregnancy and does not cause weight gain. The copper IUD releases copper ions into the uterus, which are toxic to sperm and prevent fertilization. Since copper IUD does not contain hormones, it does not affect a woman’s weight or cause water retention.

In addition to being highly effective, copper IUDs can provide long-lasting contraception for up to 10 years.

Barrier Methods

Barrier methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, are non-hormonal birth control options that do not affect a woman’s weight. These methods work by physically preventing sperm from reaching the egg without altering hormone levels.

Barrier methods can be an excellent option for women seeking the best birth control for weight loss. However, they may be less effective than hormonal methods in preventing pregnancy. [2]

Hormonal Contraceptives With Lower Estrogen Levels

Some hormonal contraceptives, such as low-dose combination birth control pills, have lower levels of estrogen, which may help minimize weight gain. However, it is essential to note that individual responses to hormonal contraceptives can vary, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Progestin-only Contraceptives

Progestin-only birth control methods, such as the mini-pill and hormonal IUDs like Mirena and Skyla, contain only one hormone (progestin) instead of the combination of estrogen and progestin found in other hormonal contraceptives.

These methods may be a better option for individuals who are sensitive to estrogen or have experienced weight gain while using combination contraceptives. [3]

Hormonal IUDs

Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), such as Mirena, Skyla, and Liletta, are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that releases a steady dose of progestin. While some women may experience temporary weight gain due to water retention or increased appetite when starting a hormonal IUD, these side effects often subside over time.

Hormonal IUDs can be an effective and long-lasting birth control option that does not cause significant weight gain for many women.

Combination Pills

Combination birth control pills contain estrogen and progestin hormones and are considered the best birth control pill for weight loss. They are among the most popular and effective birth control options available.

While some women may experience temporary weight gain due to water retention when first starting combination pills, this side effect often subsides after a few months. Some combination pills may even help with weight loss, as the estrogen component can help regulate appetite and metabolism.

Considering their needs and health history, women must consult their healthcare provider to determine the best birth control pill for weight loss. [4]

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

Implants

The birth control implant, such as Nexplanon or Implanon, is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm that releases a steady dose of progestin. While some women may experience temporary weight gain due to increased appetite when first starting the implant, this side effect often subsides over time.

For many women, the implant can be an effective and convenient birth control that doesn’t cause weight gain.

The Shot – Depo-Provera

The birth control shot, or Depo-Provera, is a hormonal injection administered every three months that contains progestin. Some women may experience weight gain while using the shot due to increased appetite, although this side effect can vary from person to person.

If weight gain becomes a concern, women should discuss the best birth control for weight loss with their healthcare provider.

How to Choose the Best Birth Control to Avoid Weight Gain

When selecting the best birth control method to avoid weight gain, individuals should consider several factors, including their medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Some steps to help make this decision include:

• Research: Learn about the various birth control that doesn’t cause weight gain, their effectiveness, potential side effects, and how they may influence you.
• Consult a healthcare provider: Discuss concerns about weight gain with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations based on individual health needs and preferences.
• Consider personal preferences: Reflect on personal preferences, such as ease of use, convenience, and long-term vs. short-term contraception, when selecting the best birth control for weight loss.
• Trial and error: Be prepared to try different birth control methods if the initial choice does not work well or causes unwanted side effects. Finding the best birth control to avoid weight gain may take some time and experimentation.
• Monitor progress: Keep track of changes in weight or overall health using a new contraceptive method. If weight gain becomes a concern, discuss the issue with a healthcare provider, who may suggest alternative birth control that doesn’t cause weight gain or recommend lifestyle changes to help manage weight.

By considering these factors and working closely with a healthcare provider, individuals can select the best birth control to avoid weight gain for their needs and minimize the risk of unwanted weight gain.

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

Tips on How to Avoid Weight Gain by Using the Best Birth Control for Weight Loss

While hormonal birth control methods may cause temporary weight gain in some women, there are steps women can take to maintain their weight while using these methods. Here are some tips:

• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help women manage their weight.
• Regular exercises like cardio and strength training can help women maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of weight gain.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out excess sodium and prevent water retention, which can contribute to temporary weight gain.
• Manage stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, to avoid emotional eating and support weight loss efforts.
• Get enough sleep: Aim for seven to eight hours per night to support healthy hormone levels and maintain a healthy weight.
• Consider changing birth control methods: If weight gain becomes a significant concern, women should consult their healthcare provider about switching to a different form of birth control to find the best birth control to avoid weight gain.

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Birth Control and Weight Gain

Many myths and misconceptions surround the connection between birth control and weight gain. Some of these include:

• All birth control methods cause weight gain: This is not true; while some hormonal contraceptives may lead to weight gain in some individuals, not all birth control methods cause weight gain. [5]
• Weight gain while using birth control is permanent: Weight gain related to birth control can often be managed through lifestyle changes and may be reversible if the underlying cause is addressed.
• Only women experience weight gain on birth control: While women may be more likely to experience weight gain due to hormonal fluctuations, men may also experience weight gain while using specific contraceptive methods.

By understanding these common misconceptions, individuals can make informed decisions about birth control and weight management and choose the best birth control to avoid weight gain.

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

How Different Types of Hormonal Birth Control Affect Your Mental Health

While hormonal birth control methods can be a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy, they can also affect a woman’s mental health. Some women may experience mood changes, such as depression or anxiety while using hormonal birth control methods. These side effects can vary depending on the type of birth control method and an individual’s body chemistry.

For example, progestin-only methods, such as the shot or the implant, have been associated with an increased risk of depression in some women. On the other hand, combination pills may positively impact mood due to the estrogen component, which can help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Women need to monitor their mental health using hormonal birth control methods and consult with their healthcare provider if they experience changes in mood or other concerning symptoms to choose the best birth control pill for weight loss.

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Birth Control Cause Weight Gain?

Hormonal birth control methods may cause temporary weight gain in some women, although many do not experience significant weight gain or may even lose weight while using these methods. Non-hormonal birth control methods do not affect weight.

What Is the Best Birth Control Pill for Weight Loss?

While no birth control pill is specifically designed for weight loss, some options may be more conducive to weight management. Combination birth control pills may be considered the best birth control pill for weight loss as they help regulate appetite and metabolism, while non-hormonal methods do not affect weight.

Can Birth Control Make You Lose Weight?

While some women may experience weight loss using hormonal birth control methods, these methods are not explicitly designed to promote weight loss. The effects of birth control on weight can vary depending on an individual’s body chemistry and lifestyle factors.

How to Lose Weight on Birth Control?

Many ask themselves, “Which birth control causes weight loss?”. Consider non-hormonal as the best birth control to avoid weight gain, like condoms or copper IUDs, hormonal contraceptives with lower estrogen levels, or progestin-only options. Adopt a balanced diet, exercise regularly, manage stress, and get enough sleep to support weight management.

Conclusion: What Is the Best Birth Control to Avoid Weight Gain?

While weight gain is a common concern for individuals using birth control, there are options available that can support weight loss and maintain overall health and wellness.

Individuals can effectively manage their weight and maintain their well-being by understanding the connection between birth control and weight gain, exploring alternative contraceptive methods, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

Working closely with a healthcare provider to discuss the best birth control for weight loss individually and monitor weight and overall health regularly to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle is crucial. By taking a proactive approach to health and wellness, individuals can achieve their weight management goals and support overall health and well-being for years.

>>Find the best birth control to avoid weight gain at Hers

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References:

[1] – InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Contraception: Do hormonal contraceptives cause weight gain? [Updated 2017 Jun 29]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441582/

[2] – Reifsnider E, Mendias N, Davila Y, Bever Babendure J. Contraception and the obese woman. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract. 2013 May;25(5):223-33. doi: 10.1111/1745-7599.12011. Epub 2013 Feb 27. PMID: 24170564; PMCID: PMC4862368.

[3] – Lopez LM, Ramesh S, Chen M, Edelman A, Otterness C, Trussell J, Helmerhorst FM. Progestin-only contraceptives: effects on weight. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Aug 28;2016(8):CD008815. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD008815.pub4. PMID: 27567593; PMCID: PMC5034734.

[4] – Mayeda ER, Torgal AH, Westhoff CL. Weight and body composition changes during oral contraceptive use in obese and normal weight women. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2014 Jan;23(1):38-43. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2012.4241. Epub 2013 Oct 24. PMID: 24156617; PMCID: PMC3880912.

[5] – InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Contraception: Do hormonal contraceptives cause weight gain? [Updated 2017 Jun 29]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441582/

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