Birth control is a popular method of contraception among women of all ages. It’s important to note that some forms of birth control can cause potential side effects, such as weight gain. However, there are also types of contraception that can lead to weight loss. In this article, we’ll take a look at what birth control causes weight loss, and look at the potential side effects associated with each.
Oral Contraceptives
Combination oral contraceptives, which contain both synthetic estrogen and progestin, have been used since the 1960s. While combination oral contraceptives have been linked to weight gain in some studies, other studies have shown that combination birth control pills can also cause weight loss. According to one study, women taking combination birth control pills experienced a significant decrease in body fat, as well as a decrease in their waist-to-hip ratio.
The Patch
The patch, which is another form of hormonal contraception, is a thin, adhesive patch that is worn on the skin. It releases synthetic hormones into the body that prevent pregnancy. The patch has been linked to weight loss in some studies. In one study, women who wore the patch for a year lost an average of 1.6 pounds. The patch can also cause a decrease in waist circumference and body fat.
The Ring
The ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina. It releases the hormones estrogen and progestin, and it is typically worn for three weeks out of the month. Studies have found that the ring can cause weight loss, with some women in one study losing an average of 2.3 pounds. The ring can also cause a decrease in waist circumference and body fat.
The Mirena IUD
The Mirena IUD is a small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus. It releases hormones into the body that prevent pregnancy. The Mirena IUD has been linked to weight loss in some studies. In one study, women who used the Mirena IUD for a year lost an average of 5.3 pounds. The Mirena IUD can also cause a decrease in waist circumference and body fat.
The Implant
The implant is a small rod that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases the hormone progestin into the body and prevents pregnancy. The implant has also been linked to weight loss in some studies. In one study, women who used the implant for a year lost an average of 2.6 pounds. The implant can also cause a decrease in waist circumference and body fat.
The Depo-Provera Shot
The Depo-Provera shot is a shot of the hormone progestin that is given every three months. It prevents pregnancy, and it can also cause weight loss in some women. In one study, women who used the Depo-Provera shot for a year lost an average of 3.5 pounds. The Depo-Provera shot can also cause a decrease in waist circumference and body fat.
Are There Any Side Effects?
It’s important to note that all forms of birth control can cause potential side effects. Common side effects of birth control include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and weight gain. It’s important to speak to your doctor about any potential side effects before starting a new form of birth control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several forms of birth control that can cause weight loss. These include combination oral contraceptives, the patch, the ring, the Mirena IUD, the implant, and the Depo-Provera shot. However, it’s important to note that all forms of birth control can cause potential side effects, and it’s important to speak to your doctor before starting a new form of birth control.