Although rare, some women report gaining weight temporarily while on thebirth controlpill.
This is because birth control can lead to the retention of fluids for a short period of time.
Read more about birth control and its other risks and symptoms.
Mindful Media / E+ / Getty Images
However, research indicates that the association between weight gain and birth control is limited.
How Does Birth Control Make You Gain Weight?
In the past, birth control formulas included higher levels of hormones, leading to instances of weight gain.
Today, much lower levels ofestrogenare used.
An increase in estrogen levels can cause a person to retain water.
Ultimately, a significant change in weight is not expected with birth control.
Types of Contraceptives That Affect Weight
Fewcontraception methodsimpact weight.
Birth control injections and implants may cause some fluctuation in weight.
It is always recommended to communicate with a healthcare provider when noticing new or worsening symptoms.
This weight gain is attributed to water retention and dissipates over time.
Any potential concerns you may have are valid and can easily be explored with your healthcare provider.
Progestin-only pills do not contribute to weight gain.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Progestin-only hormonal birth control: pill and injection.
InformedHealth.Contraception: do hormonal contraceptives cause weight gain?Updated June 29, 2017.
Cochrane Fertility Regulation Group, ed.Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
2013;7(7):CD008815.
2009;114(2):279-284. doi:10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181af68b2
Planned Parenthood.What are the side effects of the birth control pill?
2011;6(1):45-56. doi:10.1586/eog.10.77
