Taking certain types of contraceptives can impede your weight loss goals. Women have many different types of hormonal-based contraceptive choices including the pill, patch and injectable contraception. They work by preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs. Without ovulation, contraception cannot occur. But there are sometimes side effects associated with the hormones contained in these types of contraception. Consult with your physician about the many different methods of contraception available and which is best for you.
Fluid Retention
The myth that birth control pills cause weight gain has been largely debunked. For most women, birth control pills will not cause you to gain weight. Some women may experience fluid retention shortly after they begin taking birth control pills. This fluid retention is temporary and may make your breasts, ankles or thighs appear larger, but this is a temporary condition. Try reducing your daily intake of sodium. Some women may experience a gain in muscle mass. This can add weight, but it is rare, according to MayoClinic.com.
Weight Gain
Women who use contraceptives containing medroxyprogesterone, such as Depo Provera, may experience weight gain. Depo Provera is an injectable contraceptive. Women who take Depo Provera typically receive one shot every three months. In the August 2009 issue of "Obstetrics & Gynecology," Dr. Yen-Chi Lee writes that some women who used medroxyprogesterone experienced a 5 percent weight gain within the first six months. Medroxyprogesterone is associated with increased belly fat.
Increased Appetite
Contraception containing drospirenone can cause symptoms of increased appetite. Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Yaz, reports that an enlarged belly and increased appetite are two possible side effects. Yaz is a pill-based contraceptive that prevents ovulation and also changes your uterine wall lining to discourage insemination. Doctors also prescribe Yaz to treat menstrual-related symptoms such as depression, anxiety, headache, acne and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe set of premenstrual symptoms.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Birth Control Pills
- "Obstetrics & Gynecology"; Early Weight Gain Predicting Later Weight Gain Among Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Users; Yen-Chi Lee, Ph.D.; August 2009
- Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals: Yaz
