Can Skyla Cause Weight Gain: Do IUDs Make You Gain Weight?
Do IUDs cause weight gain? Explore the connection between IUDs and weight gain. Learn about the potential side effects of hormonal and copper IUDs and get tips for maintaining a healthy weight.
IUDs and Weight Gain: Is There a Connection?
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a popular form of reversible birth control used by people who menstruate. While IUDs are generally considered safe and effective, there is a common misconception that they can lead to unintentional weight gain. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the potential relationship between IUDs and weight gain, examining the available research and providing insights to help you make an informed decision about your contraceptive choice.
Types of IUDs and Their Potential Side Effects
There are two main types of IUDs available: copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs. Each type has its own unique characteristics and potential side effects.
Copper IUDs
Copper IUDs, such as ParaGard, are plastic, T-shaped devices wrapped in copper wire. They create an inflammatory reaction in the uterus, which is toxic to sperm, thereby preventing pregnancy. Copper IUDs are known to cause side effects such as anemia, backaches, cramping, vaginitis, painful sex, bleeding between periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, and severe menstrual pain. However, weight gain is not a listed side effect of copper IUDs.
Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena and Skyla, are also plastic, T-shaped devices, but they release the hormone progestin into the uterus. This thickens the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing the eggs, and it also thins the uterine lining and helps prevent ovulation. Hormonal IUDs may cause side effects like acne, depression, heavy menstrual bleeding, and headaches, including migraines. Importantly, weight gain is listed as a potential side effect of hormonal IUDs.
What the Research Says About IUDs and Weight Gain
Several studies have explored the potential link between IUD use and weight gain. A 2020 study compared weight gain among users of hormonal IUDs, copper IUDs, and birth control implants in a racially diverse group of women. The results showed that, on average, hormonal IUD users gained about 0.72 kg (1.59 lbs) after 12 months of use. This suggests that hormonal IUDs may contribute to a small amount of weight gain, but more research is needed to fully understand the relationship.
In contrast, the National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health reviewed multiple studies on weight gain and copper IUDs and found no evidence that the use of copper IUDs affects weight.
Factors That Influence Weight Gain
It’s important to note that weight gain can have many causes, and the choice of birth control method is just one potential factor. The natural aging process, lifestyle factors, and underlying health conditions can also contribute to unintentional weight gain. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, hormonal forms of birth control, including IUDs, probably won’t cause significant weight gain on their own.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Regardless of your chosen birth control method, maintaining a healthy weight is an important aspect of overall health. If you are concerned about weight gain, it’s best to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help you explore different contraceptive options and provide guidance on healthy weight management strategies, such as following a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience any concerning side effects after having an IUD inserted, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately. This includes sudden or unexplained weight gain, as well as other symptoms like severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection. Your provider can help address these issues and determine if the IUD needs to be removed or replaced.
In conclusion, while hormonal IUDs may contribute to a small amount of weight gain, the overall evidence suggests that the choice of birth control method is not a major factor in significant weight changes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and addressing any underlying health concerns are key to managing your weight. If you have concerns, be sure to have an open and honest dialogue with your healthcare provider.
IUDs and Weight Gain: Is There a Connection?
IUDs and Weight Gain: Is There a Connection?
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Medically reviewed by Valinda Riggins Nwadike, MD, MPH — By Natalie Silver — Updated on May 5, 2023
Unintentional weight gain likely has more to do with the natural aging process and your overall lifestyle than your choice of birth control.
An IUD is one form of contraceptive used by people who menstruate. It’s a small device that your doctor inserts into your uterus. It’s one of the most effective methods of reversible birth control.
Two forms of IUDs are available:
Copper IUDs
The copper IUD (ParaGard) is a plastic, T-shaped device with copper wire wrapped around it. It creates an inflammatory reaction in your uterus, which is toxic to sperm. This helps prevent pregnancy. The device lasts up to 10 years before you need to replace it.
The copper IUD may cause side effects, such as:
- anemia
- backaches
- cramping
- vaginitis
- painful sex
- bleeding between periods
- heavy bleeding during periods
- severe menstrual pains
- vaginal discharge
Weight gain isn’t a listed side effect of the copper IUD.
Hormonal IUDs
Hormonal IUDs such as Mirena and Skyla are plastic T-shaped devices that release the hormone progestin into your uterus.
This thickens your cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching and fertilizing your eggs. The hormone also thins your uterine lining and helps prevent your eggs from being released.
The Skyla IUD lasts up to 3 years before you need to replace it, and the Mirena IUD can last for up to 5 years before it needs to be replaced.
Hormonal IUDs may cause side effects, such as changes in your menstrual bleeding and missed periods. Other side effects include:
- acne
- depression
- heavy bleeding during menstruation
- headaches, such as migraines
Hormonal IUDs also list weight gain as a possible side effect.
One 2020 study compared weight gain with the hormonal IUD, the copper IUD, and the birth control implant among a large group of racially diverse women. The hormonal IUD showed that hormonal IUD users gained about 0.72 kg (about 1.59 lbs) on average after 12 months.
This suggests that hormonal IUDs could contribute to low levels of weight gain. It should be noted that weight gain can have many causes and that more research needs to be done.
If you choose to use an IUD, your doctor will have to insert it. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects after the IUD is inserted.
IUDs don’t prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You should use other barrier methods, such as condoms, to protect yourself and your partner from STIs.
It’s commonly assumed that using certain contraception methods leads to weight gain. However, studies indicate that most people tend to gain weight during their reproductive years, regardless of their chosen birth control methods.
The National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health reviewed several studies on weight gain and copper IUDs. It found no evidence that IUD use affects weight.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, hormonal forms of birth control probably won’t cause you to gain a lot of weight either.
If you think you’ve gained weight because of your hormonal contraceptive, talk to your doctor. There are many forms of contraceptives available.
Managing a healthy weight for you is a lifelong endeavor. More than 66 percent of women in the United States have overweight or obesity, reports the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Doing what you can to maintain a healthy-for-you weight and avoid significant weight gain or loss is important to your overall health.
If you’d like to lose weight, avoid eating more calories than you burn each day. Follow these tips to have a balanced and nutrient-dense diet:
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein.
- Avoid high-fat meats, fried foods, and sweets.
- Drink plenty of water, and reduce consumption of high-calorie beverages such as soda.
You should avoid fad and elimination diets that deprive you of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients you need.
To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, you also need to get regular physical exercise. For optimum health, your weekly exercise routine should include:
- aerobic exercises, such as running, walking, bicycling, dancing, or swimming
- strength-training exercises, such as lifting weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight exercises
- stretching exercises
You should spend at least 150 minutes on moderate-intensity aerobic activities every week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Making healthy food choices and engaging in regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Finding the right birth control method for you and managing your weight are important factors in staying healthy.
Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your IUD or your weight. If you exercise and eat a well-balanced diet, but you still notice a significant fluctuation in your weight, there may be a medical reason for it.
Your doctor can help you find the best IUD based on your lifestyle, health, and reproductive plans.
Last medically reviewed on May 12, 2021
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Medically reviewed by Valinda Riggins Nwadike, MD, MPH — By Natalie Silver — Updated on May 5, 2023
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Do IUDs Cause Weight Gain?
IUDs have not been shown to cause weight gain. Learn why your weight may change with an IUD.
Like all medications, birth control can have side effects. They’re important to consider when choosing the method that’s right for you. Birth control side effects may include acne, breakthrough bleeding, mood changes, and more. Weight gain is a concern among women choosing birth control, but it’s a common misconception that IUDs cause weight gain. To answer some frequently asked questions about IUD weight gain, we talked to Christina Madison, PharmD, FCCP, BCACP, AAHIVP, founder of The Public Health Pharmacist and clinical researcher of women’s health.
What is an IUD?
An IUD, or intrauterine device, is a small, T-shaped plastic device placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. With less than a 1% risk of pregnancy each year, IUDs are the most effective form of birth control available. IUDs are a great choice for those who often forget to take their daily birth control pills. After insertion, an IUD lasts anywhere from three to 12 years. It can be used by women of all ages, according to the CDC. They are also a reversible contraception option, allowing you to go back to regular fertility once your IUD is removed.
There are two types of IUD products: copper and hormonal. While both are effective in preventing pregnancy, there are some key differences to keep in mind.
RELATED: How does IUD birth control work?
Copper IUDs
Copper IUDs are hormone-free. They use plastic and copper coils instead of levonorgestrel. Copper is a natural spermicide, killing sperm before it can reach an egg. Copper IUDs, like ParaGard, can be used for up to 12 years.
Hormonal IUDs
Sometimes referred to as intrauterine systems, hormonal IUDs release small amounts of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel into the uterus, which prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. These IUDs can last anywhere from three to eight years.
One of the most common hormonal IUD brands is Mirena, manufactured by Bayer. Mirena prevents pregnancy for up to five years but may remain effective for up to eight years.
The cost of Mirena varies, but Bayer recently reported that 95% of women are covered with little to no out-of-pocket costs. The list price of Mirena is $1,410, which comes out to about $15 per month over eight years. If your insurance doesn’t cover it, there are Mirena coupons available.
Other common brands include Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena. Each hormonal IUD brand is different, so be sure to consult with your OB-GYN on which is right for you.
RELATED: What is Mirena? | What is Skyla? | What is Liletta? | What is Kyleena?
What are the side effects of an IUD?
Both hormonal and copper IUDs do much more than just preventing pregnancy. For example, Mirena treats heavy bleeding, which benefits those who experience endometriosis-related pain. ParaGard, the copper IUD, is also used as an emergency contraceptive since it begins working immediately.
Side effects of intrauterine dosage forms, like the Mirena IUD, are typically less severe than those seen with oral contraceptives, according to Dr. Madison.
While IUDs are 99% effective, there are some common side effects that include:
- Cramping and back pain after placement
- Irregular bleeding and spotting
- Irregular periods, which may become lighter or even stop
- Ovarian cysts, which usually disappear
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or longer periods with copper IUDs
Rare, but serious, side effects of IUDs include:
- Potential risk of pelvic infection within 20 days after insertion
- The IUD slipping or moving, which will need to be taken out by a professional
- Expulsion of the device from the uterus
Mirena side effects
Possible side effects of IUDs vary from patient to patient. Side effects may also depend on the type of IUD used. The Mirena IUD may have additional, hormone-based side effects, such as:
- Headaches
- Acne
- Breast tenderness
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Since Mirena and other hormonal IUDs use the progestin hormone instead of estrogen, some patients may experience weight gain or hair loss due to lower estrogen levels. However, these side effects are uncommon and may be related to a number of other health issues, such as stress or other illnesses.
“Benefits of using these highly effective and long-acting products outweigh the risk of potential side effects,” says Dr. Madison, but make sure to consult with your doctor to determine if an IUD is the right option for you.
RELATED: Mirena alternatives
IUD weight gain
The majority of IUD users do not experience weight gain. Copper, non-hormonal IUDs do not cause weight gain, whereas about 5% of patients using hormonal IUDs report weight gain. Since Mirena is a hormonal IUD, Mirena weight gain is possible, but unlikely.
“The perception of weight gain from these products is widely thought of, but has not been substantiated,” says Dr. Madison. “There was no difference in body weight or composition seen among [IUD] products after 12 months of continuous use.” While you may have some weight gain after getting your IUD, it should subside.
Weight gain can happen with hormonal IUDs due to the hormone, progestin. Any IUD weight gain is likely not an increase in body fat, but instead an increase in water retention. The hormone progestin may increase water retention that causes bloating, typically adding about five pounds. The amount of weight gained will vary from patient to patient, but any water retention will likely go down three months post-insertion.
It’s important to know that gaining any weight post-insertion is likely due to the patient’s lifestyle as opposed to the IUD itself. Many American women naturally gain two pounds each year, entirely unrelated to any hormonal contraceptives, according to Yale Medicine.
Consider making some lifestyle changes to avoid weight gain after getting an IUD. Exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and other common healthy habits should minimize the chances of any weight change after getting an IUD.
Should bloating not subside three months after IUD insertion, consider speaking with a healthcare professional about other options. Copper IUDs, like Paragard, have not been linked to weight gain, making them a great alternative.
What birth control doesn’t cause weight gain?
Should an IUD prove to be not the best birth control method for you, there are plenty of other contraceptive options to consider. Consult your healthcare provider about what would work best for you. Some common birth control options include:
- Birth control pills
- Xulane patches
- Birth control injections, like Depo-Provera
- Contraceptive implants, like Nexplanon
- Vaginal rings, like NuvaRing
Hormonal birth control gets a bad reputation for causing weight gain. However, weight gain is not a side effect of most birth control methods. Any weight gain reported while taking birth control is likely natural, like aging or your metabolism slowing down.
Only one form of birth control has been linked to weight gain, and that’s the injection Depo-Provera. If you’re looking to avoid weight gain, stay away from injectable contraceptives. These injectables have been shown to activate signals that control hunger, resulting in weight gain in some patients.
As you consider other birth control options, keep in mind that some, like the pill, injections, patches, and vaginal rings, have 10% yearly failure rates due to human error.
“Choosing the best contraceptive product is very individualized,” says Dr. Madison, so make sure to speak openly and honestly with your gynecologist about which birth control method is right for you.
IUD weight gain FAQs
Does Mirena cause weight gain?
Mirena has not been shown to cause weight gain. Less than 10% of Mirena users experienced weight gain in its manufacturer clinical trials. There was not enough evidence to show that these participants’ weight gain was caused by Mirena. However, it is possible to initially gain a few pounds due to an increase in water retention, which should subside after a few months.
What should I do if I gain weight on Kyleena?
If you experience weight gain with Kyleena, try to find the cause of the weight gain. Was there a recent change in your life that may be causing it? There is a multitude of reasons that someone can gain weight. Kyleena does not have evidence of weight gain by itself, but an initial weight gain of a few pounds due to water retention should not be alarming. Practicing a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent weight gain. However, if you experience unexplained weight gain, talk to your healthcare provider because it could be caused by another medical condition.
Why do people gain weight with IUDs?
People can gain weight with IUDs due to water retention. This usually goes away within a few months of getting an IUD inserted. Generally, IUDs do not show an increase in actual weight or body fat.
Can a copper IUD make you gain weight?
Studies have shown that Copper IUDs do not cause weight gain. This is because they do not have progestin, the hormone present in hormonal IUDs that causes water retention. If you gain weight unexplainably with a copper IUD, speak to a healthcare provider. It could be caused by an underlying condition.
Endocrinologist called the reasons for weight gain | Society news | Izvestiya
An imbalance between the energy consumed in the form of food and the energy expended leads to an increase in body weight. Elena Sinitsyna, an endocrinologist and nutritionist at the SM-Clinic, told Izvestia about the causes that could lead to an imbalance.
The imbalance between consumed and expended energy can be caused by many factors. One of the most common causes is overeating. Often people do not notice how they overeat – eating on the run, quick snacks, eating in the presence of distractions (mobile, TV, tablet) are out of control.
Sweets can also contribute to weight gain.
“A small piece of candy or a piece of chocolate has a low calorie content, but causes a sharp increase in blood glucose, and after it, insulin. After a few minutes, your glucose level drops, and you feel a characteristic desire to snack again and eat something delicious. In order not to provoke weight gain, it is important to limit the consumption of pure sugar and starches as much as possible – giving up chocolate and sweets, fruit juices and even sweetened yogurts, ”Sinitsyna emphasized.
The endocrinologist also named a high level of stress in the body among the causes of obesity. During times of stress, the body needs to respond quickly and issue ready-made solutions. Due to the production of the stress hormone (cortisol), in a stressful situation, cravings for sweets (a fast source of energy) increase, and sleep is disturbed. This is an effective tactic for the survival of the body for a short period, but under conditions of chronic stress, the body is literally exhausted and all conditions are created for a rapid increase in body weight.
Serious stress for the body, in particular, is lack of sleep and chronic sleep deprivation, as it significantly impairs biochemical processes. Trying to make up for the lack of energy, people often consume not only more coffee, but food in general, which also leads to weight gain.
Certain medications can also cause weight changes. These drugs include antidepressants, antipsychotics, hypoglycemic drugs, some antihypertensive and anabolic steroids, contraceptives.
Hormonal disorders can also be the cause of imbalance in the body. Sinitsyna added that the most common and frequent abnormalities in the hormonal system that lead to weight gain are thyroid disorders, as well as age-related hormonal disorders.
“Low thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) is characterized by a severe metabolic slowdown characterized by rapid weight gain, chronic fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and an inability to get enough sleep even with plenty of sleep,” the endocrinologist explained.
Weight gain may be related to age-related hormonal changes. For example, in women during menopause, the production of female sex hormones decreases, which is accompanied by a restructuring of all metabolic processes. The average weight gain during this period is from five to seven kilograms. However, as the metabolism changes, getting rid of this weight is not always easy.
“An analogue of male menopause is an age-related decrease in testosterone levels, which leads not only to a sharp loss of muscle mass, but also provokes obesity. In this case, fat begins to be deposited on the chest, thighs and lower abdomen. Recently, I often see a decrease in testosterone levels in young men, which may be the result of a sedentary lifestyle and chronic stress, ”said Sinitsyna.
In addition to common causes, there are a number of serious diseases that cause obesity: Itsenko-Cushing syndrome, Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome, Prader-Will syndrome, Carpenter’s syndrome.
On December 15, Elizabeth Louden, a physician at the American Center for Metabolic Health and Weight Loss, revealed that the majority of belly fat is due to a low metabolism. If you solve the problem with metabolism, you will get rid of excess weight forever. In this case, consultation with specialists is necessary.
Medications that can make you gain weight
Taking medications that your doctor prescribes for you for a particular reason may cause side effects that are not always desirable. Unfortunately, doctors do not always warn about what medications can lead to, and many would like to know what to expect from a course of medications.
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One of the most common drug side effects is weight gain. Let’s make a reservation right away – this does not happen for everyone and not always, but you can be one of those “lucky ones” who really put on weight.
We talk about drugs that can cause weight gain. We are sure that it is better to know and take some steps in advance so as not to gain weight than to accidentally discover an extra 3-5, or even 10 kg, gained over several weeks of taking the drug.
In general, it would be absolutely useful to discuss with the doctor all the possible “side effects” that the prescribed medicine can cause in order to take timely action. This, however, applies to any side effects, and not just those associated with weight. In some cases, undesirable effects are inevitable, but there are situations when their occurrence can be completely avoided or at least made less pronounced.
Steroids
Steroid preparations can be prescribed for various diseases. They make it quite easy to achieve an improvement in the condition, but the treatment is often accompanied by an undesirable effect, including insomnia, increased appetite and swelling. All this is the perfect combo for those extra pounds to literally stick in strategic places. It is important that steroids are available in different forms – these can be ointments and creams, sprays, as well as tablets. The latter just cause weight gain the most. You can reduce your chances of gaining weight by choosing the lowest possible dose for you, as well as adjusting your diet and choosing the ideal sleep pattern for you.
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Antidepressants
Many people say that you can gain weight on antidepressants. Fortunately, not everyone is gaining it, although this, of course, is quite real. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors pose the greatest danger in this regard, so if you are taking drugs whose active ingredient belongs to this class of substances, be careful.
The fact is that such drugs not only improve your mood and help you feel less depressed, but also increase your appetite. And here the connection is quite obvious: you want to eat more – you eat more – your weight increases.
If you are prone to weight gain, then discuss with your doctor in advance that you are worried about the fact that he will become more – it is likely that he will be able to choose another suitable drug for you.
Birth control pills
Oral contraceptives have many side effects, some of which are quite pleasant and desirable. But, let’s not hide, weight gain is not included in this list for everyone.
It works like this: progesterone, which is part of birth control pills, increases appetite, which causes women to eat more and gain weight. Another possible mechanism is that while taking contraceptives, the body begins to more actively retain water, and the weight also goes up because of this.
Antihistamines
Popular antihistamine-based allergy medications are most often not available by prescription. They can be prescribed by a doctor, but many people buy these drugs on their own initiative and choose the dosage on their own.
In addition to the fact that the selection of medicines still has to be done by a specialist, there is another danger. All the same kilograms that you can gain. Taking allergy medications frequently can lead to weight gain. This happens more often in women than in men. If you notice that you are really gaining weight on the background of a course of antihistamines, but at least try to change the dosage form: the spray in this case will be much less dangerous than tablets.
Blood pressure medications
Medicines prescribed for hypertension, such as beta-blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers, also affect weight. Unfortunately, in the case of such drugs, the choice is not too rich. There is nothing to replace them and cancel, most likely, the doctor will not allow. And this means that in order to prevent gaining extra pounds, you will have to carefully monitor your lifestyle, adjust your diet and try to introduce at least a minimum of physical activity into your daily routine.
Migraine Medicines
Migraine pain is terrible and excruciating, so finding that one medicine or another really helps with these nightmarish headaches is priceless. People who suffer from migraines are often ready to go to great lengths to improve their condition, and they may not even notice such “little things” as weight gain while taking medication.
However, in any case, for those who suffer from migraines, it is important to monitor their condition, minimize or completely eliminate the influence of triggers that can provoke a migraine attack.