Can removing an IUD lead to weight loss. How does IUD removal affect body weight. What are the potential weight-related side effects after IUD removal. Is it possible to lose weight more easily after IUD removal. Do hormonal IUDs cause more weight changes than copper IUDs.

Understanding IUDs and Their Impact on Weight

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are popular long-term birth control methods that can prevent pregnancy for 3 to 12 years. While highly effective, some users report experiencing weight changes both during use and after removal. These effects can vary significantly between individuals, with some noticing minimal changes and others experiencing more pronounced weight fluctuations.

Weight changes associated with IUDs are often mild, but some users report more severe and long-lasting symptoms. These effects may persist for months after IUD removal, leading to concerns about long-term impacts on weight management.

Types of Weight Changes After IUD Removal

• Weight gain
• Weight loss
• Difficulty losing weight despite diet and exercise changes

Are these weight changes common after IUD removal? While scientific research is limited, anecdotal reports suggest that weight fluctuations are a relatively frequent occurrence. Many users describe experiencing a collection of symptoms known as the “Mirena crash,” which includes weight changes among other effects.

The Science Behind IUD-Related Weight Changes

Despite the prevalence of user reports, there is a lack of comprehensive scientific research on IUD-related weight changes. This scarcity of controlled trials and studies makes it challenging to determine the exact mechanisms behind weight fluctuations following IUD removal.

Why is there a discrepancy between medical literature and user experiences? Medical literature often describes weight gain associated with hormonal birth control as “bloating” or “water weight.” However, many users report gaining more substantial weight over several months to a year.

How do individual responses to birth control affect weight changes? It’s important to note that not everyone responds to birth control in the same way. The effects can vary significantly from person to person, which contributes to the diverse range of experiences reported by IUD users.

Potential Scenarios for Weight Changes After IUD Removal

To better understand the possible weight changes after IUD removal, let’s explore some hypothetical scenarios:

Scenario 1: Appetite Changes

During IUD use, some individuals experience appetite loss, leading to reduced food intake and weight loss. After removal, appetite may return to normal, resulting in weight gain as eating habits normalize.

Scenario 2: Energy Level Fluctuations

Some users report fatigue and energy loss while the IUD is in place, leading to reduced physical activity and potential weight gain. Following removal, energy levels may improve, increasing motivation for exercise and potentially resulting in weight loss.

Scenario 3: Weight Loss Plateau

In some cases, users report difficulty losing weight after IUD removal, even when making changes to diet and physical activity. This “weight plateau” can be frustrating for those attempting to manage their weight post-removal.

Additional Symptoms Following IUD Removal

Weight changes are not the only potential effects of IUD removal. Other symptoms that may develop include:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Depression

How can these symptoms impact weight? Any of these symptoms can play a role in weight changes over time, either directly or indirectly affecting appetite, energy levels, and physical activity.

Comparing Hormonal and Non-Hormonal IUDs

There are two main types of IUDs: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper). Understanding the differences between these types can provide insight into their potential effects on weight.

Copper IUDs

Copper IUDs, such as ParaGard, do not release hormones into the body. Instead, they work by using copper as a sperm repellent. Since they don’t affect hormone levels, copper IUDs are less likely to cause weight changes, either during use or after removal.

Does ParaGard list weight gain as a side effect? No, ParaGard does not include weight gain among its potential side effects.

Hormonal IUDs

Hormonal IUDs work by releasing progestin into the uterus. This hormone helps prevent pregnancy by:

• Reducing (but not eliminating) the chance of ovulation
• Thickening cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize eggs

Which hormonal IUD brands are available in the United States? There are currently four brands of hormonal IUDs available:

1. Mirena
2. Skyla
3. Liletta
4. Kyleena

These brands release different amounts of progestin over time, which may contribute to varying effects on weight.

The Role of Hormones in IUD-Related Weight Changes

Weight gain related to birth control is often associated with changes in hormone levels. As hormonal IUDs release progestin, they are more likely to be connected to weight changes during use and after removal compared to copper IUDs.

How does progestin affect weight? Progestin can influence various bodily processes, including metabolism, appetite, and fluid retention. These effects may contribute to weight fluctuations in some individuals.

Is there a difference in weight changes between different hormonal IUD brands? While all hormonal IUDs use progestin, the varying amounts released by different brands may lead to different effects on weight. However, more research is needed to determine if there are significant differences between brands.

Factors Influencing Weight Changes After IUD Removal

Several factors can contribute to weight changes following IUD removal, making it challenging to pinpoint a single cause. Some potential influences include:

Hormonal Readjustment

After removing a hormonal IUD, the body needs time to readjust to its natural hormone levels. This period of hormonal fluctuation can potentially impact weight.

Metabolic Changes

Some individuals may experience changes in their metabolism during IUD use, which could continue to affect weight for a period after removal.

Lifestyle Factors

Changes in diet, exercise habits, and stress levels during and after IUD use can all contribute to weight fluctuations.

Individual Physiology

Each person’s body responds differently to hormonal changes and birth control methods, leading to varied experiences with weight changes.

Managing Weight After IUD Removal

For those concerned about weight changes following IUD removal, there are several strategies that may help manage weight effectively:

Balanced Diet

Focusing on a nutritious, balanced diet can support overall health and help maintain a stable weight. This includes incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and sugary drinks.

Regular Exercise

Engaging in regular physical activity can help boost metabolism, build muscle, and support weight management. Aim for a combination of cardiovascular exercise and strength training for optimal results.

Stress Management

Stress can impact weight through various mechanisms, including hormonal changes and emotional eating. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help support weight management efforts.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated can help reduce water retention and support overall health. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Sleep Quality

Adequate, quality sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, potentially leading to weight gain.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While some weight fluctuation after IUD removal is normal, there are instances where it may be advisable to consult a healthcare provider:

• Rapid or significant weight changes
• Persistent difficulty losing or gaining weight
• Unexplained changes in appetite or eating habits
• Symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as irregular periods or mood swings
• Concerns about the impact of weight changes on overall health

A healthcare provider can help determine if there are underlying health issues contributing to weight changes and provide personalized advice for managing weight effectively.

Future Research and Understanding

The lack of comprehensive scientific studies on weight changes following IUD removal highlights the need for further research in this area. Future studies could help:

• Determine the prevalence and extent of weight changes after IUD removal
• Identify specific mechanisms behind these weight fluctuations
• Compare the effects of different IUD types and brands on weight
• Develop targeted strategies for managing weight changes in IUD users

As more research is conducted, healthcare providers and patients will be better equipped to understand and address potential weight-related side effects of IUD use and removal.

Alternative Birth Control Methods and Weight Considerations

For individuals concerned about potential weight changes associated with IUDs, there are several alternative birth control methods to consider. Each method has its own set of potential side effects and considerations, including possible impacts on weight.

Hormonal Methods

• Birth control pills
• Hormonal patches
• Vaginal rings
• Injectable contraceptives
• Implants

These methods all use hormones to prevent pregnancy and may have similar potential for weight-related side effects as hormonal IUDs.

Non-Hormonal Methods

• Condoms
• Diaphragms
• Cervical caps
• Fertility awareness methods
• Sterilization (for permanent contraception)

Non-hormonal methods are less likely to cause weight changes but may have lower effectiveness rates compared to hormonal options.

How can individuals choose the best birth control method for their needs? It’s important to discuss all options with a healthcare provider, considering factors such as effectiveness, potential side effects, personal health history, and lifestyle preferences.

The Importance of Individualized Care

The varied experiences reported by IUD users highlight the importance of individualized care in reproductive health. What works well for one person may not be the best option for another.

Personalized Approach to Birth Control

Healthcare providers should work closely with patients to:

• Assess individual risk factors and health history
• Discuss potential side effects, including weight changes
• Consider lifestyle factors and personal preferences
• Monitor for any adverse effects during use
• Provide support during and after contraceptive use

How can patients advocate for personalized care? Open communication with healthcare providers is key. Patients should feel empowered to discuss their concerns, report any side effects, and ask questions about their birth control options.

Psychological Aspects of Weight Changes and Body Image

Weight changes, whether related to IUD use or not, can have significant psychological impacts. It’s important to address these aspects alongside physical health considerations.

Body Image Concerns

Unexpected weight changes may lead to body image issues or exacerbate existing concerns. This can impact self-esteem and overall mental well-being.

Anxiety and Stress

Worries about weight changes or difficulty managing weight can contribute to increased anxiety and stress levels, which may, in turn, affect physical health.

Relationship with Food and Exercise

Weight fluctuations might influence an individual’s relationship with food and exercise, potentially leading to unhealthy behaviors if not addressed appropriately.

How can individuals cope with the psychological impact of weight changes? Seeking support from mental health professionals, joining support groups, and practicing self-compassion can all be helpful strategies. It’s important to remember that weight is just one aspect of overall health and does not define a person’s worth or beauty.

Long-Term Health Considerations

While short-term weight changes after IUD removal may be a concern for many, it’s also important to consider the potential long-term health implications.

Metabolic Health

Significant weight fluctuations can impact metabolic health, potentially affecting factors such as blood sugar regulation and cholesterol levels.

Hormonal Balance

The use of hormonal contraceptives, including IUDs, may have long-term effects on hormonal balance. This could potentially influence weight regulation even after discontinuation.

Fertility and Reproductive Health

While IUDs are generally considered safe and do not affect long-term fertility, any concerns about reproductive health following IUD removal should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

How can individuals monitor their long-term health after IUD use? Regular check-ups, including comprehensive health screenings, can help detect any potential long-term effects. Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about any persistent symptoms or concerns is crucial.

Empowering Informed Decision-Making

The topic of weight changes after IUD removal underscores the importance of informed decision-making in reproductive health. Empowering individuals with comprehensive information can lead to better outcomes and satisfaction with their chosen birth control method.

Education and Awareness

Increasing awareness about potential side effects, including weight changes, can help individuals make more informed choices about their contraceptive options.

Shared Decision-Making

Encouraging a collaborative approach between patients and healthcare providers can lead to more personalized and effective contraceptive choices.

Ongoing Research and Information Dissemination

Supporting continued research into the effects of various contraceptive methods and ensuring that new findings are effectively communicated to both healthcare providers and the public is crucial.

How can individuals stay informed about developments in contraceptive research? Following reputable health organizations, attending informational sessions, and regularly discussing updates with healthcare providers can help individuals stay current on the latest information.

In conclusion, while weight changes after IUD removal are a concern for many users, the effects can vary widely between individuals. The lack of comprehensive scientific research highlights the need for further study in this area. In the meantime, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, considering all available contraceptive options, and focusing on overall health and well-being can help individuals navigate potential weight-related side effects of IUD use and removal.

Is Weight Loss Possible After IUD Removal? 12 Things to Know

An intrauterine device (IUD) sits inside your uterus, preventing pregnancy for anywhere from 3 to 12 years, according to Planned Parenthood. This time frame varies depending on the type and brand of IUD you choose.

Most birth control types have the potential to cause side effects, including weight changes, and IUDs are no exception.

Many people report these side effects are mild and almost unnoticeable.

Other people, however, find they experience more severe, long-lasting symptoms. Some say these effects persist for months after the IUD is removed.

IUDs are a highly effective method of birth control, and plenty of people find them convenient as well as effective.

That said, anecdotal reports and various online sources suggest it’s possible to experience unwanted changes in weight, not only while the IUD remains in place but also after its removal.

Once your IUD is removed, you might notice:

• weight gain
• weight loss
• difficulty losing weight, even with changes in diet and exercise

Based on the sheer number of stories from people who experienced weight loss or gain after IUD removal, weight changes are a pretty common outcome.

Many people also describe a collection of symptoms commonly referred to as the “Mirena crash.” These symptoms include weight changes.

For the most part, while people who reported weight changes find them frustrating, there’s little evidence to suggest any gain or loss will negatively affect your physical health.

The lack of scientific research on IUD-related weight changes makes it difficult to determine exactly how weight might change following IUD removal.

Though you may notice weight gain listed as a potential side effect of hormonal birth control, medical literature commonly describes this weight gain as “bloating” and “water weight.” Yet many people report gaining weight beyond a few pounds over the course of several months to a year.

Not everyone responds to birth control in the same way, so these effects can vary from person to person. Due to a lack of scientific studies and controlled trials, no specific statistics indicate whether weight loss or gain is more likely after IUD removal.

That said, the Mirena crash (and associated weight changes) is a fairly well-known phenomenon among former Mirena users — one that’s widely discussed online.

Let’s say, after IUD insertion, you notice some appetite loss — a symptom many people have reported. Since you don’t have much appetite, you eat less and lose weight as a result. After IUD removal, your appetite returns to normal, and you gain back the weight you lost.

Here’s another scenario: You experience some fatigue and energy loss while the IUD remains in place. Regularly feeling tired and unwell means you exercise less and gain some weight as a result.

After removal, you notice your energy levels return to normal. This increase in energy may leave some people more motivated to exercise, and, within a few months after removal, they may lose a few pounds.

People also report a weight plateau after IUD removal. In other words, they’re unable to lose weight, despite making changes in their diet and physical activity.

Some other symptoms that can develop following the removal of your IUD include:

• nausea
• fatigue
• insomnia
• depression

Any of these symptoms can play a part in weight changes over time.

To sum up, you could notice you lose a few pounds right away after your IUD is removed. Yet it’s also not unheard of to gain more weight, or have difficulty losing the weight you gained while the IUD was in place.

Two types of IUDs exist: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper).

Copper IUDs don’t release hormones into your body. Instead, they work because the copper acts as a sperm repellant.

Weight gain related to birth control tends to be associated with changes in hormone levels. Since copper IUDs don’t affect your hormones, it stands to reason they wouldn’t cause any changes in weight, while in place or after removal.

ParaGard, the copper IUD, doesn’t list weight gain as a potential side effect.

Hormonal IUDs work by releasing progestin into your uterus. Progestin helps prevent pregnancy by:

• reducing (but not eliminating) the chance of ovulation, or the release of eggs from your ovaries
• thickening cervical mucus, making it extremely difficult for sperm to reach any eggs that are released, much less fertilize them

Four different brands of hormonal IUDs are currently available in the United States: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena. These brands release different amounts of progestin over time.

Weight gain during IUD use and after removal is more likely to be associated with these hormonal IUDs.

Since the evidence for weight gain (or loss) after IUD removal is largely anecdotal, there isn’t a conclusive scientific explanation for why this happens.

It may relate to changes in hormones, which may, in turn, affect appetite, mood, and energy levels.

Many people notice some weight gain while taking hormonal birth control. When they stop taking birth control, it may take a few months for their hormone levels to return to baseline. Fluctuations in weight could happen as part of this process.

The same goes for the IUD. After removal, the body has to adjust to the sudden drop in progestin. In theory, this hormone imbalance could lead to weight fluctuations and other symptoms of the Mirena crash.

It’s worth noting that other potential Mirena crash symptoms, including depression and insomnia, may also play a part in weight gain.

Existing research appears to suggest that, while a small amount of weight gain could happen when using IUDs and other hormonal birth control, this side effect may relate to other factors, rather than the birth control itself.

These studies also tend to point out that weight gain is normal during childbearing years — the time period during which people use birth control.

To date, no published scientific studies specifically explore weight changes after IUD removal, or other symptoms associated with the Mirena crash.

But then, research exploring gynecological health and related concerns — that includes reproductive health and health issues affecting the vagina, uterus, and ovaries — has always been somewhat limited.

What’s the deal with this lack of research?

You don’t have to search very hard, whether looking online or asking loved ones, to find plenty of stories about doctors brushing aside “female complaints.” This includes those related to unexplained pain, painful periods, and side effects of medication.

Talking about periods or reproductive health, even when using clinical terms, like “menstruation” or “vagina,” still remains somewhat taboo in casual conversation. Case in point: You’ll still often hear people call their period by a euphemism, like Aunt Flo, their monthly visitor, or the curse.

Traditionally, medical research has focused on people assigned male at birth and neglected to adequately explore health and reproductive health concerns for people assigned female at birth.

The large gender gap in clinical trials also means researchers may know far less about how medications and healthcare devices affect those assigned female at birth.

The problems with limited research, not to mention the avoidance of open discussion around reproductive health, lies beyond the scope of this article. In any case, there’s a lot that experts don’t know about the effects of hormonal birth control.

There are plenty of options to consider, but research on these options and their potential side effects remains limited. That’s why most of the support for weight changes following IUD removal comes from the stories of those who experience it personally.

While you’ll almost certainly gain and lose weight over the course of your life, you also know your body better than anyone else.

If you eat and exercise the same way you always have but suddenly experience significant weight changes, it makes sense to consider other factors, such as your IUD or its recent removal.

You might experience short-term side effects, such as cramping, bleeding, or dizziness, after a healthcare professional removes your IUD.

After the removal of Mirena and other hormonal IUDs, some people report additional side effects beyond weight changes, including:

• nausea
• decreased sex drive
• depression, anxiety, and other mood changes
• fatigue and energy loss
• insomnia
• headaches
• hair loss
• acne
• pain during sex
• breast pain or tenderness

These symptoms won’t always happen immediately after removal. You might not notice any changes for several weeks.

The lack of scientific research on the effects of IUD removal means there’s no clear timeline for how long these symptoms last.

Some people report weight changes and other symptoms cleared up within a few weeks. Others say they had a hard time losing weight for months after removal. And still others don’t notice any changes at all.

As the hormones in your body return to typical levels, these side effects will most likely go away naturally. The time this takes can vary, but you’ll usually see improvement within a few months.

Experiencing unwanted weight gain and other side effects after taking birth control can be distressing and overwhelming, especially when symptoms leave you feeling a lack of control over your own body.

Rather than drastically cutting calories or ramping up your exercise routine to the point where you feel exhausted, aim for changes that promote overall wellness and leave you feeling nourished and empowered.

These strategies can help improve both mood and physical health:

• Choose high-fiber, mood-boosting foods.
• Stay hydrated.
• Spend more time outdoors, especially in sunlight.
• Make physical activity a regular habit, if you’re able to exercise.
• Try to sleep between 7 and 9 hours every night.
• Consider wellness practices, like yoga and meditation.
• Reach out to friends and loved ones for emotional support.

If any unwanted side effects linger for more than several weeks after IUD removal, it may be helpful to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Healthy weight loss can take time, but if you’re making an effort to lose weight and see no results over time, a healthcare professional can offer more support.

When these symptoms involve depression, anxiety, and other mood changes, a mental health professional can help you explore possible causes and offer guidance on treatment approaches.

It’s always a good idea to reach out sooner rather than later if your side effects or symptoms begin to affect your everyday life or cause significant distress.

To date, the research on IUD removal doesn’t support the existence of any long-term side effects, including weight changes. Of course, one possible explanation for this is that almost no controlled trials have explored IUD removal.

Future research examining the possible long-term effects of IUD removal would go a long way in understanding potential symptoms and their causes.

For now, just remember: You know your body. Connecting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea if you notice any unusual changes in physical or mental health.

Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health. In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues.

Is Weight Loss Possible After IUD Removal? 12 Things to Know

An intrauterine device (IUD) sits inside your uterus, preventing pregnancy for anywhere from 3 to 12 years, according to Planned Parenthood. This time frame varies depending on the type and brand of IUD you choose.

Most birth control types have the potential to cause side effects, including weight changes, and IUDs are no exception.

Many people report these side effects are mild and almost unnoticeable.

Other people, however, find they experience more severe, long-lasting symptoms. Some say these effects persist for months after the IUD is removed.

IUDs are a highly effective method of birth control, and plenty of people find them convenient as well as effective.

That said, anecdotal reports and various online sources suggest it’s possible to experience unwanted changes in weight, not only while the IUD remains in place but also after its removal.

Once your IUD is removed, you might notice:

• weight gain
• weight loss
• difficulty losing weight, even with changes in diet and exercise

Based on the sheer number of stories from people who experienced weight loss or gain after IUD removal, weight changes are a pretty common outcome.

Many people also describe a collection of symptoms commonly referred to as the “Mirena crash.” These symptoms include weight changes.

For the most part, while people who reported weight changes find them frustrating, there’s little evidence to suggest any gain or loss will negatively affect your physical health.

The lack of scientific research on IUD-related weight changes makes it difficult to determine exactly how weight might change following IUD removal.

Though you may notice weight gain listed as a potential side effect of hormonal birth control, medical literature commonly describes this weight gain as “bloating” and “water weight.” Yet many people report gaining weight beyond a few pounds over the course of several months to a year.

Not everyone responds to birth control in the same way, so these effects can vary from person to person. Due to a lack of scientific studies and controlled trials, no specific statistics indicate whether weight loss or gain is more likely after IUD removal.

That said, the Mirena crash (and associated weight changes) is a fairly well-known phenomenon among former Mirena users — one that’s widely discussed online.

Let’s say, after IUD insertion, you notice some appetite loss — a symptom many people have reported. Since you don’t have much appetite, you eat less and lose weight as a result. After IUD removal, your appetite returns to normal, and you gain back the weight you lost.

Here’s another scenario: You experience some fatigue and energy loss while the IUD remains in place. Regularly feeling tired and unwell means you exercise less and gain some weight as a result.

After removal, you notice your energy levels return to normal. This increase in energy may leave some people more motivated to exercise, and, within a few months after removal, they may lose a few pounds.

People also report a weight plateau after IUD removal. In other words, they’re unable to lose weight, despite making changes in their diet and physical activity.

Some other symptoms that can develop following the removal of your IUD include:

• nausea
• fatigue
• insomnia
• depression

Any of these symptoms can play a part in weight changes over time.

To sum up, you could notice you lose a few pounds right away after your IUD is removed. Yet it’s also not unheard of to gain more weight, or have difficulty losing the weight you gained while the IUD was in place.

Two types of IUDs exist: hormonal and non-hormonal (copper).

Copper IUDs don’t release hormones into your body. Instead, they work because the copper acts as a sperm repellant.

Weight gain related to birth control tends to be associated with changes in hormone levels. Since copper IUDs don’t affect your hormones, it stands to reason they wouldn’t cause any changes in weight, while in place or after removal.

ParaGard, the copper IUD, doesn’t list weight gain as a potential side effect.

Hormonal IUDs work by releasing progestin into your uterus. Progestin helps prevent pregnancy by:

• reducing (but not eliminating) the chance of ovulation, or the release of eggs from your ovaries
• thickening cervical mucus, making it extremely difficult for sperm to reach any eggs that are released, much less fertilize them

Four different brands of hormonal IUDs are currently available in the United States: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena. These brands release different amounts of progestin over time.

Weight gain during IUD use and after removal is more likely to be associated with these hormonal IUDs.

Since the evidence for weight gain (or loss) after IUD removal is largely anecdotal, there isn’t a conclusive scientific explanation for why this happens.

It may relate to changes in hormones, which may, in turn, affect appetite, mood, and energy levels.

Many people notice some weight gain while taking hormonal birth control. When they stop taking birth control, it may take a few months for their hormone levels to return to baseline. Fluctuations in weight could happen as part of this process.

The same goes for the IUD. After removal, the body has to adjust to the sudden drop in progestin. In theory, this hormone imbalance could lead to weight fluctuations and other symptoms of the Mirena crash.

It’s worth noting that other potential Mirena crash symptoms, including depression and insomnia, may also play a part in weight gain.

Existing research appears to suggest that, while a small amount of weight gain could happen when using IUDs and other hormonal birth control, this side effect may relate to other factors, rather than the birth control itself.

These studies also tend to point out that weight gain is normal during childbearing years — the time period during which people use birth control.

To date, no published scientific studies specifically explore weight changes after IUD removal, or other symptoms associated with the Mirena crash.

But then, research exploring gynecological health and related concerns — that includes reproductive health and health issues affecting the vagina, uterus, and ovaries — has always been somewhat limited.

What’s the deal with this lack of research?

You don’t have to search very hard, whether looking online or asking loved ones, to find plenty of stories about doctors brushing aside “female complaints.” This includes those related to unexplained pain, painful periods, and side effects of medication.

Talking about periods or reproductive health, even when using clinical terms, like “menstruation” or “vagina,” still remains somewhat taboo in casual conversation. Case in point: You’ll still often hear people call their period by a euphemism, like Aunt Flo, their monthly visitor, or the curse.

Traditionally, medical research has focused on people assigned male at birth and neglected to adequately explore health and reproductive health concerns for people assigned female at birth.

The large gender gap in clinical trials also means researchers may know far less about how medications and healthcare devices affect those assigned female at birth.

The problems with limited research, not to mention the avoidance of open discussion around reproductive health, lies beyond the scope of this article. In any case, there’s a lot that experts don’t know about the effects of hormonal birth control.

There are plenty of options to consider, but research on these options and their potential side effects remains limited. That’s why most of the support for weight changes following IUD removal comes from the stories of those who experience it personally.

While you’ll almost certainly gain and lose weight over the course of your life, you also know your body better than anyone else.

If you eat and exercise the same way you always have but suddenly experience significant weight changes, it makes sense to consider other factors, such as your IUD or its recent removal.

You might experience short-term side effects, such as cramping, bleeding, or dizziness, after a healthcare professional removes your IUD.

After the removal of Mirena and other hormonal IUDs, some people report additional side effects beyond weight changes, including:

• nausea
• decreased sex drive
• depression, anxiety, and other mood changes
• fatigue and energy loss
• insomnia
• headaches
• hair loss
• acne
• pain during sex
• breast pain or tenderness

These symptoms won’t always happen immediately after removal. You might not notice any changes for several weeks.

The lack of scientific research on the effects of IUD removal means there’s no clear timeline for how long these symptoms last.

Some people report weight changes and other symptoms cleared up within a few weeks. Others say they had a hard time losing weight for months after removal. And still others don’t notice any changes at all.

As the hormones in your body return to typical levels, these side effects will most likely go away naturally. The time this takes can vary, but you’ll usually see improvement within a few months.

Experiencing unwanted weight gain and other side effects after taking birth control can be distressing and overwhelming, especially when symptoms leave you feeling a lack of control over your own body.

Rather than drastically cutting calories or ramping up your exercise routine to the point where you feel exhausted, aim for changes that promote overall wellness and leave you feeling nourished and empowered.

These strategies can help improve both mood and physical health:

• Choose high-fiber, mood-boosting foods.
• Stay hydrated.
• Spend more time outdoors, especially in sunlight.
• Make physical activity a regular habit, if you’re able to exercise.
• Try to sleep between 7 and 9 hours every night.
• Consider wellness practices, like yoga and meditation.
• Reach out to friends and loved ones for emotional support.

If any unwanted side effects linger for more than several weeks after IUD removal, it may be helpful to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Healthy weight loss can take time, but if you’re making an effort to lose weight and see no results over time, a healthcare professional can offer more support.

When these symptoms involve depression, anxiety, and other mood changes, a mental health professional can help you explore possible causes and offer guidance on treatment approaches.

It’s always a good idea to reach out sooner rather than later if your side effects or symptoms begin to affect your everyday life or cause significant distress.