While weight gain is listed as one of the common side effects on most types of birth control, this may be misleading, according to MayoClinic.com. Birth control itself doesn't cause weight gain. It can, however, cause you to retain water or increase the size of your fat cells, which can create the appearance of weight gain. The hormonal changes also can increase your appetite. If you eat more calories that aren't offset by more exercise, you'll also gain weight. If you feel you've gained weight since starting birth control, takes steps to get your former body back.
Step 1
Use your current method of birth control for three months---it may take your body this long to completely adjust to the medication, according to KidsHealth.org. After this three-month window, women often notice the side effects lessening or going away.
Step 2
Start a food journal. Write down all your meals and snacks. Study your daily entries to ensure you're not eating too many calories. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, recommends the American Heart Association.
Step 3
Increase the amount of physical activity you do to offset any additional calories you've been eating and to help burn off excess body fat. Choose an activity you love and do it at least five days a week for at least 30 minutes a day, recommends the American College of Sports Medicine.
Step 4
Increase your fluid intake. Adequate water consumption helps decrease water retention. Limit the amount of salt you eat to prevent your body from holding on to excess fluids.
Step 5
Switch your birth control to a brand with less estrogen if you continue to have problems, recommends MayoClinic.com. Estrogen is the hormone in birth control that leads to weight gain-like symptoms.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Birth Control Pill FAQ: Benefits, Risks and Choices
- MayoClinic.com: Water Retention: Are There Any Natural Diuretics?
- American Heart Association: No-Fad Diet Tips
- American College of Sports Medicine: Physical Activity & Public Health Guidelines
- TeensHealth: Birth Control: Birth Control Pill
