Birth control is a common way for women to control pregnancy, but did you know it could also impact your body weight? Studies have shown that certain types of birth control can cause weight gain in females.

In this article, we’ll explore the correlation between birth control and increased body weight in females and what factors may increase the likelihood of gaining weight as a result of birth control.

Types of Birth Control

There are several types of birth control available on the market, and some of them may be more likely to cause weight gain than others.

Hormonal birth control methods such as the birth control pill, the patch, and the shot all contain hormones that can disrupt the natural balance of hormones in the body, leading to weight gain. Non-hormonal birth control methods such as the copper IUD and condoms do not pose the same risk for weight gain.

Studies on Birth Control and Weight Gain

A number of studies have explored the relationship between birth control and weight gain. One study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology looked at the weight gain in women taking the birth control pill over a six-month period.

The study found that women who took the pill gained an average of 3.5 pounds more than women who did not take the pill.

Another study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that women who took the birth control shot gained an average of 6.6 pounds over a two-year period.

This weight gain was more significant in women who were already overweight or obese at the beginning of the study.

Factors that Influence Weight Gain on Birth Control

While not every woman who takes birth control will experience weight gain, certain factors can increase the likelihood of gaining weight while on birth control. These factors may include:.

Age: Women who are younger may be more likely to experience weight gain while on birth control.
Family history: Women who have a family history of weight gain or obesity may be more likely to also gain weight on birth control.
Lifestyle factors: Women who eat a high-fat diet and have a sedentary lifestyle may be more likely to gain weight while on birth control.
Birth control type: Certain types of birth control, such as the birth control shot and the implant, are more likely to cause weight gain than others.

How to Manage Weight Gain on Birth Control

If you are concerned about weight gain while on birth control, there are several things you can do to help manage your weight:.

Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help prevent weight gain while on birth control.
Exercise regularly: Exercise can help burn calories and prevent weight gain while on birth control.
Choose the right birth control: Consider non-hormonal birth control options if you are concerned about weight gain.
Talk to your doctor: If you are experiencing weight gain or other side effects while on birth control, talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Conclusion

While birth control can be an effective way to prevent pregnancy, certain types of birth control can also cause weight gain in females.

Factors such as age, family history, lifestyle, and birth control type can all impact the likelihood of gaining weight on birth control. However, making healthy choices such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and choosing the right birth control method can help prevent weight gain while on birth control.