Weight gain due to birth control?

jaybernal

I got on iud thinking it was not going to make me gain weight just like the implonon did as soon as I removed the implonon I lost 30lb. Then in August I got the iud thinking I wasn't going to gain weight but of course I did so I removed it and I'm taking the pill but now I'm 168 so I need to get back to 130!! Did any one have the same problem? Any suggestions of whats the best birth control other then absence? Lol

cathrynfay

The copper IUD, Paraguard, is not hormonal and, as such, does not have the weight gain side effect. It is sometimes associated with heavier bleeding, though. I have a Mirena and have gained a lot of weight since I got it. I'm not sure if it's because of the IUD or because of my habits. I'm considering having it removed, but like you I don't want to use the pill.

Of course, one can use a combination of condoms and cycle monitoring to avoid pregnancy, and they can be effective. You need to be very diligent, though.

kr1stadee

I had the Mirena inserted in September, days after I started here. I'm now down almost 40lbs. No weight gain due to Mirena here!! The only effect I'm seeing is heavier periods, but I'm assuming that they will taper off as I have it in longer, it hasn't even been 6 months yet

dakotababy

COPPER IUD! best decision i have EVER made.

xXxHBICxXx

When I started depo shot I gained like 40 pounds, it sucks.

LLaceFace

I have tried several types of birth control and I HATE them all. I always seem to want to eat everything in sight, I get moody and mean, and I break out all over. I have tried IUD, Pills, and the Ring and I have chosen to just go with nothing because I cannot stand the side effects of BC. I hope you find some relief and are able to find a solution without having to deal with weight gain :-/

javi536

Please, please, please consider taking your Mirena IUD out!! Do your research, look online for Mirena side effects, go to the forums and facebook pages put together just for this reason. I can't emphasize how much I wish I had removed mine before the major problems started. I plan on posting my story in a blog soon, but here's the cliffs notes version:

I had two IUDs back to back, and it took me 10 years to finally connect the dots that this horrible device was causing all kinds of medical problems. The weight gain was only a minor side effect, but for me it was a sign that something was wrong. Over the past few years I was putting on approx 10-15 lbs per year (50+ lbs total), despite cleaning up my diet and increasing exercise. At one point, I was running 10-15 miles per week, doing Insanity 3-4 x per week, and eating very healthy (mostly organic fruits & veggies, lean fish & chicken, and very little processed foods). My doctors couldn't figure out what was happening either, as all of my bloodwork was coming back normal. Actually, my results were really good- low cholesterol, low blood pressure, no imbalances, etc. But they were concerned about the weight gain, especially because it was mostly around my stomach. I gradually became much sicker over a 4 year period, with symptoms such as hair loss, acne, joint pain, severe fatigue, brain fogginess, depression, anger and agitation, uncontrollable sugar cravings, swelling of my hands for no reason, carpal tunnel syndrome, ovarian cysts, vision problems in one eye, heart palpitations (despite haing very low blood pressure), increased inflammation and so much more... I was in and out of doctor offices, where I was diagnosed with everything from depression and hypothyroidism, to fibromyalgia and lupus. The only treatment options I was provided were narcotics, and I didn't want to start drugging myself to numb the pain- I wanted to know what was causing the problem. I started researching whether Mirena can cause hypothyroid problems, and what I found online shocked me. This isn't a random side effect that only affects a small number of people. I've connected with hundreds of women online who are dealing with very similar situations. Their stories helped me know what to bring up to my doctors, what tests to have ordered, and where to go for treatment. Ultimately, I discovered that I had silicone poisoning from the Mirena, which leaches the toxic substance into your bloodstream along with the hormones it releases, as well as a severe imbalance from Mirena malfunctioning and dumping four years worth of synthetic progesterone into my body at once. These two factors combined to cause adrenal and liver burnout, and nearly shut down my endocrine system and thyroid production. Trust me when I say that prior to figuring this all out, I really thought that I was dying. The symptoms may start gradual (like with weight gain), because the Mirena slowly poisons you. There are numerous lawsuits and class action proposals coming out against Bayer for the problems with this device, and not just for perforations. Please look into what this thing really does to your body! I have found endless info on Curezone (online forum) and the Ban Mirena facebook page. You can also contact me if you want any more info... trust me, I have spent more hours researching this topic than I would have liked!

I just want to add that I am the last person to complain or ask for help- my family didn't understand what was happening for a long time because I didn't want to look weak or helpless, and I would push through and act like I was okay. Towards the end, I wasn't able to hide the pain or physical symptoms, and I know they were really scared for me. I am a single mom of two, I work full-time, and spend my days driving my kids around to endless sports, classes and groups. I have a great family and close friends, love my job, and an overall good life. I am not a hypochondiac who reads a list of symptoms on WebMD and diagnoses myself with a life-threatening illness. I do wish I had put the pieces together sooner and found out what this birth control actually does, instead of spending so many years (not to mention lots of money and energy) being frustrated and scared. Prior to realizing it caused my problems, I thought Mirena was great. No periods, no pain, 10 yrs of birth control. In hindsight, it wasn't worth any of it. Since having it removed 8 months ago, I'm about 80-90% better- losing weight, no acne, no hair loss, joint and muscle pain gone, fatigue and brainfog gone, vision problems nearly corrected... it's been a long road, but it's one towards healing. We can only do something about it once we know. I know everyone's body tolerates things differently, but there is a lot about the IUDs that is unknown long-term, so I really urge you to look into it and make the best decision for yourself!!

Best of luck to all of you,
Jenny

SandersWifey

I got on iud thinking it was not going to make me gain weight just like the implonon did as soon as I removed the implonon I lost 30lb. Then in August I got the iud thinking I wasn't going to gain weight but of course I did so I removed it and I'm taking the pill but now I'm 168 so I need to get back to 130!! Did any one have the same problem? Any suggestions of whats the best birth control other then absence? Lol

I gained 50 pounds on the Depo shot. I have taken the pill for years and I don't seem to have a problem with it regarding weight gain. I take a pill with a low hormone dosage.

Erica0718

I got Mirena in July 2012 and have felt bloated and swollen ever since. I am now thinking about getting it removed and getting the copper IUD. The Mirena is nice because some people like myself do not have periods. However I have side effects like breast tenderness and feeling sluggish, I did not have these on the pill.

saelre

Deleting the post and sending as a message...

emilyc85

I have a NuvaRing I am currently in the process of getting changed around. I have lost a grand total of 2 pounds in 2.5 months. I believe the Ring is at fault because the first side effect listed is weight gain, and listed several times when you look up the side effects. So, I have LOVED having birth control, but just not recently because of this one side effect

Hbazzell

Every time I change BC I gain a little (like 3-5 lbs) and it is really hard to get off. When I am off birthcontrol (the few times I have done that) I didn't lose anything.

Ginger_Gal

It's very difficult for me to lose weight, and I am thinking it is the Mirena. I go to the Dr in March because my 5 years is up, and I'm thinking of going back to the pill, or the copper IUD.

Filletsteak

I gained 20lbs in 3 weeks when I changed birth control pills, went back to the old one straight away but the weight is still here!

Dfracassa

I definitely have gained weight since I got back on the pill, and it's apparently impossible to lose. I have always had an easy time losing weight while off the pill, and so I know it's the culprit. I'm working really hard, but it doesn't seem to matter.

Taterpoof

I've heard horror stories about the depo shot. People gaining a ton of weight, bleeding constantly, etc. I've been on it for about a year now and while it's definitely harder to lose weight, I haven't gained anything, and the no periods thing is a huuuuuge yay. I think different BC's effect people differently.

brandyanne0204

When I started depo shot I gained like 40 pounds, it sucks.

I know what you mean, I have been off it for a while and is having a hard time getting rid of the weight.

brandyanne0204

I've heard horror stories about the depo shot. People gaining a ton of weight, bleeding constantly, etc. I've been on it for about a year now and while it's definitely harder to lose weight, I haven't gained anything, and the no periods thing is a huuuuuge yay. I think different BC's effect people differently.

You should do some research. I wasn't even on it for a whole year and had to get off of it. I was having bad headaches, hair was thinning, and I gained about 50 pds. I have a friend who was on it for years and she experience heavy bleeding and a possibility of bone deterioration.

AnniePenny

I take the pill with the minimum hormone dosage and I haven't noticed any weight gain or odd new habits.. It works well for me, Give it a try and see how it goes?

k8blujay2

Progesterone only BC, such as the Depo shot and the mini pill, make it much easier for me to gain weight.... even if my eating habits haven't changed.

Smuterella

The Mirena made me gain about 14lbs in a matter of weeks. Evil thing. I'm going back to basics and using condoms. i hate them but i hate feeling fat more.

now_or_never13

I don't believe the pill will actually cause fat gain. IT may make you gain water weight due to the changes in hormones... it may make you gain fat because of the changes in hormones making you feel hungrier or more tired. I have been on the pill for years and have only gained weight due to my own habits. I have also lost a lot of weight while on the pill.

For any pill you decide (or method for that matter) reserach it but don't always believe everything you read online... people only report horror stories and the bad side effects. People don't tend to write reviews when they have great things to say about the pill. It will affect everyone differently.

XXXMinnieXXX

I have the copper one. First 5 months periods were very grim, but they've calmed down now and as I'm not allowed anything with hormones in I find it a good option. Also there's no hormonal side effects which Is a bonus.
Zara

Jemmuno

About a year ago I lost 30lbs and I wanted to go on Depo. I had heard however that a lot of people who go on Depo gain weight. So, I asked my doctor about it and she said that the reason why people gain weight on Depo is because of the hormones it releases makes us feel hungry when we're not, so I would have to be strong and keep to my calorie, but of course that didn't happen so now I'm off birth control all together and just focusing on a healthy lifestyle.

brevislux

I'm using a pill called Qlair, but I don't know if you can get it where you are... I've had many attempts with many types until I found this one, it comes the closest to normal, changing hormonal levels in women and I didn't have any side-effects. Look it up maybe...

Edit: Google shows it's called "Qlaira" abroad.

road2peachtree

Please, please, please consider taking your Mirena IUD out!! Do your research, look online for Mirena side effects, go to the forums and facebook pages put together just for this reason. I can't emphasize how much I wish I had removed mine before the major problems started. I plan on posting my story in a blog soon, but here's the cliffs notes version:

I had two IUDs back to back, and it took me 10 years to finally connect the dots that this horrible device was causing all kinds of medical problems. The weight gain was only a minor side effect, but for me it was a sign that something was wrong. Over the past few years I was putting on approx 10-15 lbs per year (50+ lbs total), despite cleaning up my diet and increasing exercise. At one point, I was running 10-15 miles per week, doing Insanity 3-4 x per week, and eating very healthy (mostly organic fruits & veggies, lean fish & chicken, and very little processed foods). My doctors couldn't figure out what was happening either, as all of my bloodwork was coming back normal. Actually, my results were really good- low cholesterol, low blood pressure, no imbalances, etc. But they were concerned about the weight gain, especially because it was mostly around my stomach. I gradually became much sicker over a 4 year period, with symptoms such as hair loss, acne, joint pain, severe fatigue, brain fogginess, depression, anger and agitation, uncontrollable sugar cravings, swelling of my hands for no reason, carpal tunnel syndrome, ovarian cysts, vision problems in one eye, heart palpitations (despite haing very low blood pressure), increased inflammation and so much more... I was in and out of doctor offices, where I was diagnosed with everything from depression and hypothyroidism, to fibromyalgia and lupus. The only treatment options I was provided were narcotics, and I didn't want to start drugging myself to numb the pain- I wanted to know what was causing the problem. I started researching whether Mirena can cause hypothyroid problems, and what I found online shocked me. This isn't a random side effect that only affects a small number of people. I've connected with hundreds of women online who are dealing with very similar situations. Their stories helped me know what to bring up to my doctors, what tests to have ordered, and where to go for treatment. Ultimately, I discovered that I had silicone poisoning from the Mirena, which leaches the toxic substance into your bloodstream along with the hormones it releases, as well as a severe imbalance from Mirena malfunctioning and dumping four years worth of synthetic progesterone into my body at once. These two factors combined to cause adrenal and liver burnout, and nearly shut down my endocrine system and thyroid production. Trust me when I say that prior to figuring this all out, I really thought that I was dying. The symptoms may start gradual (like with weight gain), because the Mirena slowly poisons you. There are numerous lawsuits and class action proposals coming out against Bayer for the problems with this device, and not just for perforations. Please look into what this thing really does to your body! I have found endless info on Curezone (online forum) and the Ban Mirena facebook page. You can also contact me if you want any more info... trust me, I have spent more hours researching this topic than I would have liked!

I just want to add that I am the last person to complain or ask for help- my family didn't understand what was happening for a long time because I didn't want to look weak or helpless, and I would push through and act like I was okay. Towards the end, I wasn't able to hide the pain or physical symptoms, and I know they were really scared for me. I am a single mom of two, I work full-time, and spend my days driving my kids around to endless sports, classes and groups. I have a great family and close friends, love my job, and an overall good life. I am not a hypochondiac who reads a list of symptoms on WebMD and diagnoses myself with a life-threatening illness. I do wish I had put the pieces together sooner and found out what this birth control actually does, instead of spending so many years (not to mention lots of money and energy) being frustrated and scared. Prior to realizing it caused my problems, I thought Mirena was great. No periods, no pain, 10 yrs of birth control. In hindsight, it wasn't worth any of it. Since having it removed 8 months ago, I'm about 80-90% better- losing weight, no acne, no hair loss, joint and muscle pain gone, fatigue and brainfog gone, vision problems nearly corrected... it's been a long road, but it's one towards healing. We can only do something about it once we know. I know everyone's body tolerates things differently, but there is a lot about the IUDs that is unknown long-term, so I really urge you to look into it and make the best decision for yourself!!

Best of luck to all of you,
Jenny

^^^This

I have the same issues and it is scary. I have had mine for quite some time and I am getting mine taken out in the next month or so. I'm ready to have my body back. If I had just done what I wanted to do after I had my last kid, I wouldn't be in this mess but I let the doc talk me out of it (tubes tied). Hindsight is 20/20 though right?

I am hoping for weight gain improvement after it's out. If I could reach up there and take it out myself I would. LOL Try the Copper IUD. That is the one I think I will try next.

k8blujay2

I've heard horror stories about the depo shot. People gaining a ton of weight, bleeding constantly, etc. I've been on it for about a year now and while it's definitely harder to lose weight, I haven't gained anything, and the no periods thing is a huuuuuge yay. I think different BC's effect people differently.

You should do some research. I wasn't even on it for a whole year and had to get off of it. I was having bad headaches, hair was thinning, and I gained about 50 pds. I have a friend who was on it for years and she experience heavy bleeding and a possibility of bone deterioration.

Yeah I had to get off of it after a second dose... because I was having spotting for a month and I had gained 30-40 pounds within 3 months.... I know it was the Depo shot because like I said in my comment... Progesterone only does that to me... I had only gained 11 pounds during pregnancy and was my pre-pregnancy weight right after having our baby... ate healthy before (I was trying to lose weight), during, and after (I was breastfeeding)... and I had gained 15 pounds during those few months I was on the mini-pill and I was having light periods every 2 weeks. Talked to my PCP and she told me the Depo shot and the mini-pill are both progesterone only... after we have our next child, I am going to go with the non-hormonal IUD, I think...

kbeech06

I'm on a low dose BC pill (not for preventing pregnancy but for of control horrible periods). I haven't gained any weight while on it. When I went to see my GP a couple of weeks ago, I told her how I was starting a new lifestyle and trying to lose weight and get into shape. She asked me a bit later if I wanted to try the Mirena. I had never heard of it....I went home and looked it up and was completely baffled why she would suggest something that causes weight gain when I just told her I was happy on my pill and trying to lose weight. I honestly don't think she listened to a word I was saying when I was in there.

toscarthearmada

I've been on so many different BC during my life and the only one that I found was worth anything was the Nuvaring. When I started the ring I didn't gain a pound! Also if you forget to change it, it takes only a week to get back on the cycle. AND you can take antibiotics on it. I swear by this medication!

mollylookalike

I was on DEPO for 2 years and literally had NO bleeding, and didn't for 8 months after my last shot. Then the flood gates opened and I bled extremely heavy for 2 months. I had ultrasound after test after test, and my gyno said that it was just my body's way of getting rid of the buildup of my uterine lining. It's been 3 years since my first shot, and I've gained 30 lbs. Before I started my "life change" at the beginning of this year, I didn't eat TERRIBLE, but I most definitely was in the "maintaining" calorie intake range - and I also did roller derby for 7 months in 2011-2012. Trust me - I should've been shedding the pounds like crazy because we had two (sometimes three) 3-hour practices a week and there was no rest.

I'm now on a low dose pill and I'm just now finishing up my first pack (started it at the same time I decided IT'S TIME to lose the weight and keep it off), and I've lost 7lbs so far, but I've also been busting my butt.

Everyone is different, and you just need to find something that works for you. Try something for 3 months, and if it's not working, go back to the doctor. Just don't play Russian Roulette and be surprised when you get pregnant.

kr1stadee

Googling the side effects of any medication is enough to make you run and hide.

I've had zero issues with the Mirena thus far, and I've lost almost 40lbs since having it inserted. Not one person reacts the same as another when it comes to any medication.