Does iud gain weight?

If you’re considering an Intrauterine Device (IUD) as your choice of birth control, you may be wondering if it will make you gain weight. This question has been a concern for many women, and the answer is not straightforward since individual bodies react differently to hormonal changes.

But fear not, dear reader! We’ve dug deep into this topic and will provide some answers backed by science with our signature funny spin. So sit tight and enjoy!

Understanding IUD

Before we delve deeper into whether or not an IUD causes weight gain, let’s first understand what an IUD is. It is a T-shaped device that healthcare professionals insert in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

There are two main types of IUDs available: copper-based and hormone-releasing (progesterone). They both work effectively in preventing pregnancy – more than 99% effective – by preventing fertilization of female eggs.

Copper-Based vs Hormone-Releasing

A copper-based IUD works like magic; instead of hormones, it releases copper ions that kill sperms on their journey towards fertilizing the egg (Take that sperm!) On the other hand, hormone-releasing IUDs use progestin-levonorgestrel to thicken cervical mucous so that pesky swimmers can’t swim. As well as thinning out your uterine lining making implantation less likely (more unwanted visitors rejected!).

Both these methods have proven success rates at preventing pregnancies whilst having fewer side effects when compared to traditional contraceptive options such as pills (no one likes taking pills every single day) or condoms (inhales deeply No one really enjoys using them either..).

However,the big elephant in room: Are they prone to causing weight gain?

Let’s find out!

Myth or Fact: Does An Iud Make You Gain Weight?

IUDs and Hormones

Hormones play an integral role in contraceptive devices, even for non-hormonal copper-based methods. Many hormonal birth control choices such as the pill, patch or injection are associated with weight gain side effects.

But how does it relate to IUDs? Unlike other contraceptives which use estrogen – some studies suggest that progesterone raises your appetite hormones (enter stage right… Ghrelin!) making you hungry all the time! With increased hunger pangs comes more snacking (who loves snacks x2) causing (drum roll please) WEIGHT GAIN!

It seems that one of the biggest reasons women blame their new lumps and bumps on Mirena (hormone-releasing IUD) is due to this specific hormone increase.

So What Does The Research Say?

Studies have examined if there is a correlation between using an IUD and gaining weight, but its findings remain inconclusive. Some research indicates that there may be an association between progesterone use and increased food intake leading to higher body weights (water off a ducks back huh!).

However (deep breath) just last year in 2020 researchers found significant evidence disproving any relationship between hormonal contraception (Including +IUVNO – intra-uterine devices containing levonorgestrel) use and weight gain.

With conflicting reports circulating both online on social media platforms & even our own medical sources; (Urrgghhh Why can’t they agree??), The only conclusion we come up with: each woman’s experience using them differs.

Let’s Break It Down:

Whilst Hormonal birth controls have been thought to cause fluid retention/make-some gain by enhancing their appetites- actual fat-gain is not actually backed up by science per se’. In fact considering these facts proves helpful;

  1. Women who often choose hormonal contraception are more likely to be overweight or obese in the first place (so don’t worry; carry on)
  2. However, with that being said & depending which study you look at, some experience weight GAINS whilst others report significant WEIGHT LOSS (together but separate .. how??)

Before we all jump to conclusions from misconceptions -It’s essential always to Talk your doctor if your birth control measure doesn’t seem to work for you.

Take into consideration different women have different nutrition requirements according to their lifestyle too.

So there it is, a summarized review!

Summing It All Up

There just isn’t enough proof available today stating that IUDs cause weight gain, well not scientifically. Whilst personal tales relating this may ask us questions . The weighty topic boils down to each woman and her unique experiences using them (how very Politically Correct!).

If feeling anxious about starting contraception or unsure what choice is best e.g IUD Insertion appointment intimidating feel free seeking medical advice beforehand.

We hope reading this article has helped break down any anxiety around hormonal contraceptives rise up like “STOP right now” by Spice Girls (and enjoy snacking peacefully knowing an asterisk shot across screen won’t leave our brain !).

Be safe & happy decision-making!

Random Posts