Do IUDs cause weight gain. What are the side effects of Skyla and other IUDs. How do copper and hormonal IUDs affect your body. Is there a connection between IUDs and weight changes.

Understanding IUDs: Types and Mechanisms

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small, T-shaped contraceptives inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. They are one of the most effective reversible birth control methods available. There are two main types of IUDs:

Copper IUDs

The copper IUD, such as ParaGard, is a non-hormonal option that uses copper wire wrapped around a plastic frame. How does it prevent pregnancy. The copper creates an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that is toxic to sperm, effectively preventing fertilization. Copper IUDs can remain effective for up to 10 years before needing replacement.

Hormonal IUDs

Hormonal IUDs, like Mirena and Skyla, release progestin into the uterus. This hormone thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm from reaching eggs, and also thins the uterine lining. In some cases, it may also prevent ovulation. Skyla can last up to 3 years, while Mirena remains effective for up to 5 years.

Common Side Effects of IUDs

While IUDs are generally safe and effective, they can cause some side effects. These vary depending on the type of IUD:

Copper IUD Side Effects

• Anemia
• Backaches
• Cramping
• Vaginitis
• Painful intercourse
• Irregular bleeding
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Severe menstrual pain
• Vaginal discharge

Hormonal IUD Side Effects

• Acne
• Depression
• Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns
• Missed periods
• Headaches, including migraines
• Potential weight gain (minimal)

IUDs and Weight Gain: Separating Fact from Fiction

One of the most common concerns about contraceptives, including IUDs, is their potential effect on weight. Does using an IUD lead to weight gain. Let’s examine the evidence:

Copper IUDs and Weight

Research suggests that copper IUDs do not cause weight gain. The National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health reviewed several studies and found no evidence linking copper IUD use to weight changes.

Hormonal IUDs and Weight

While hormonal IUDs list weight gain as a possible side effect, the actual impact appears to be minimal. A 2020 study comparing weight changes among users of hormonal IUDs, copper IUDs, and birth control implants found that hormonal IUD users gained an average of 0.72 kg (about 1.59 lbs) after 12 months. This suggests that any weight gain associated with hormonal IUDs is likely to be slight.

Factors Influencing Weight Changes During Reproductive Years

It’s important to consider that weight changes during reproductive years are common, regardless of contraceptive use. Several factors can contribute to weight fluctuations:

1. Natural aging process
2. Changes in metabolism
3. Lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, stress)
4. Hormonal changes
5. Pregnancy and postpartum periods

These factors often play a more significant role in weight changes than the choice of contraceptive method.

Managing Weight While Using an IUD

If you’re concerned about maintaining a healthy weight while using an IUD, consider the following strategies:

• Monitor your weight regularly
• Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Stay hydrated
• Get adequate sleep
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Remember, significant weight changes are more likely to be related to overall lifestyle factors rather than IUD use.

When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider

While minor weight fluctuations are normal, when should you discuss weight changes with your doctor. Consider consulting your healthcare provider if:

• You experience rapid or unexplained weight gain
• Weight changes are accompanied by other unusual symptoms
• You have concerns about your IUD or its side effects
• You’re interested in exploring alternative contraceptive options

Your healthcare provider can help determine if your weight changes are related to your IUD or if other factors are involved.

Alternative Contraceptive Options

If you’re concerned about potential weight gain or other side effects of IUDs, there are numerous alternative contraceptive methods available. These include:

• Birth control pills
• Contraceptive patches
• Vaginal rings
• Contraceptive injections
• Implants
• Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms)
• Natural family planning methods

Each method has its own set of benefits and potential side effects. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider to find the best fit for your individual needs and preferences.

The Importance of STI Protection

While IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). How can you protect yourself and your partner from STIs while using an IUD. It’s crucial to use barrier methods, such as condoms, in addition to your IUD if you’re at risk of STIs. This dual approach provides comprehensive protection against both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Regular STI screenings are also important for sexually active individuals, regardless of their chosen contraceptive method. Discuss your risk factors and testing needs with your healthcare provider.

Long-Term Health Considerations for IUD Users

When considering long-term use of an IUD, what health factors should you keep in mind. Here are some key points to consider:

Bone Health

Some studies have suggested that long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, including hormonal IUDs, may have a slight impact on bone density. However, this effect is generally considered minimal and reversible upon discontinuation of the method. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Cancer Risk

Research has shown that IUD use may actually provide some protective effects against certain types of cancer. For instance, both copper and hormonal IUDs have been associated with a reduced risk of endometrial cancer. Some studies have also suggested a potential reduction in ovarian cancer risk.

Fertility After IUD Removal

One common concern is whether IUD use affects future fertility. The good news is that fertility typically returns quickly after IUD removal, regardless of how long the device was in place. Most women can conceive within a few months of IUD removal if they choose to do so.

Menstrual Changes

Long-term use of hormonal IUDs often leads to lighter periods or even absence of menstruation in some users. While this can be beneficial for those with heavy periods, it’s important to understand that this is a normal effect of the hormones and not a health concern.

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential for monitoring your overall health and addressing any concerns related to long-term IUD use.

The Future of Contraception: Advances in IUD Technology

As research in contraceptive technology continues to advance, what new developments can we expect in IUD design and function? Here are some exciting areas of research and development:

Biodegradable IUDs

Scientists are working on developing biodegradable IUDs that would not require removal. These devices would gradually dissolve over time, potentially offering a more convenient option for users.

Smart IUDs

Researchers are exploring the possibility of “smart” IUDs that could release hormones or medications in response to specific bodily cues. This could potentially reduce side effects and increase effectiveness.

Multi-Purpose IUDs

Future IUDs may serve multiple purposes beyond contraception. For example, some researchers are investigating IUDs that could deliver medications to treat conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids while also preventing pregnancy.

Improved Insertion Techniques

Ongoing research aims to develop less invasive and more comfortable insertion methods for IUDs, potentially making them accessible to a broader range of users.

While these advancements are still in development, they highlight the ongoing efforts to improve contraceptive options and address the diverse needs of users.

In conclusion, while concerns about weight gain with IUD use are common, the evidence suggests that any weight changes are likely to be minimal, particularly with copper IUDs. Hormonal IUDs may contribute to slight weight gain in some users, but this is generally not significant. It’s important to consider that weight changes during reproductive years are influenced by many factors beyond contraceptive choice.

If you’re considering an IUD or have concerns about your current method, don’t hesitate to discuss your options with a healthcare provider. They can help you make an informed decision based on your individual health needs and preferences. Remember, the best contraceptive method is one that fits your lifestyle, is comfortable for you to use, and provides effective pregnancy prevention while minimizing unwanted side effects.

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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How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

May 5, 2023

Written By

Natalie Silver

Edited By

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May 12, 2021

Medically Reviewed By

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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. 

Which drugs make you gain weight

If you are prescribed a drug and start to gain weight, the two events are not necessarily related. Some groups of drugs can really affect weight gain, but not in the way you think.

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Excess weight

The fight against excess weight

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Perhaps you are taking some kind of medication and have started noticing how the numbers on the scale are getting bigger. Look in the instructions for the group of your drug and perhaps it will be on this list.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

1. Why does the drug cause weight gain?

By itself, the drug does not form fatty tissue from nothing. Reasons your drug may cause weight gain include side effects such as:

• increased appetite

• water retention

• intense accumulation of fat from incoming food (faster than usual)

• slow metabolism 900 31

• fatigue, lethargy or weakness

2. Medicinal drugs

2.1 Antidepressants

Some antidepressants can cause weight gain by affecting the neurotransmitter serotonin, which affects our mood. You become more relaxed, your well-being improves, and with it your appetite. Other antidepressant options can cause drowsiness and fatigue, which reduces your level of activity, and therefore the expenditure of energy, which is then stored as adipose tissue.

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2.2 Contraceptives

This class of drugs is most often blamed for weight gain. In general, birth control pills are not associated with weight gain, especially the newer pills with lower doses of estrogen and progestin. A significant effect can be observed only with injections. And so again we return to the revision of the calorie content of the diet and the level of physical activity.

2.3 Antihistamines

Blocking histamine activity may increase appetite. Used to treat allergic conditions.

2.4 Antipsychotics and treatment of mood disorders

Although all antipsychotics have been shown to cause some metabolic and weight changes, each drug has its own risk profile. They have a similar effect to antidepressants. This class of drugs is used for mental illness.

2.5 Beta blockers

Beta blockers are a class of heart drugs used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). They can cause fatigue. A person lacks energy and slows down, which can affect the number of calories burned per day

2.6. Corticosteroids

Steroids can affect the metabolic rate and lead to increased appetite and overeating. This class of drugs can lead to additional deposits of fat in the middle part of the body (in the abdomen). They are often used for a short time

2.7 Diabetes medicines

May cause weight gain, both by increasing appetite and by increasing glucose uptake into cells. Too many calories in the form of glucose will lead to weight gain (as insulin injections can). But remember that nutrition and physical activity can control such effects.

2.8 Anticonvulsants, mood stabilizers and migraine medicines

Have a similar weight gain mechanism to the previous classes. Long-term use of this group of drugs can cause significant weight gain

3. What should I do?

Other drugs will not have any significant effect on your weight. Get back to the basics:

1. a balanced diet

2. regular physical activity

3. quality sleep and rest

If you are all – you are still taking one of the above drugs, consult your doctor, but do not stop the drug yourself .

(Also: How antidepressants affect weight: here’s what scientists say)

Psychopharmacotherapy. Is weight gain inevitable?

A very popular question from patients: “ Is it possible to avoid weight gain when taking psychotropic therapy? ”

I can answer that it is possible to take drugs without a significant increase in body weight, and there are even options for weight loss during treatment with psychopharmacotherapy.

The problem is not only related to taking drugs, it is multifaceted. Much depends on the patient himself – habits and lifestyle, the implementation of the doctor’s recommendations, there are factors that are associated with the metabolic processes of the body, hereditary predisposition. Weight gain comes not from drugs, but from what you eat. You eat more calories than you burn. Sweet gives a feeling of pleasure with minimal effort and cost. And after a long stress, the desire to receive it is very great. Although it can also be obtained from physical activity, from hobbies, etc., but it takes effort and most people follow the path of least resistance – ate a chocolate bar, went to McDonald’s, etc. Given that against the background of stress, there is usually a decrease in body weight, often significant, and there is confidence that this will not harm.

For many patients, stress does not affect appetite, and even eating a lot of sweets does not affect the scales, because. because of the experiences, everything “burns out”.

But against the background of treatment, the level of anxiety and irritability decreases, which leads to a slowdown in metabolic processes, and if the patient continues to consume the same amount of easily digestible carbohydrates, this leads to weight gain.

There are also patients who seize anxiety and, on the contrary, note an increase in weight against the background of stress, and so, with rare exceptions, they have a decrease in body weight during treatment with psychotropic drugs.

I would also like to note an alternative – there are a number of drugs that, while improving mood and reducing anxiety, do not affect appetite, and some even reduce it, and most patients lose body weight.

I would like to emphasize that each case is individual and you should not rely on reviews on the Internet, as a rule, they are written by patients with negative experiences, people with positive ones do not write about it. All your individual characteristics can be identified at a consultation with a psychiatrist (psychotherapist), and all side effects of the recommended therapy can be discussed in detail. And most importantly, follow all the doctor’s recommendations, not only those related to taking medications. Remember, it is not psychotropic drugs that increase weight, but excessive calorie intake.