Does an IUD Cause Weight Gain? What You Need to Know
When you're considering birth control, it's natural to have questions about potential side effects, and weight gain is a common concern. So, can an IUD cause weight gain? The answer isn't a simple yes or no, as it largely depends on the type of IUD you have. Let's break down the two main types of IUDs and their relationship with weight. The Hormonal IUD Hormonal IUDs like Mirena, Kyleena, Skyla, and Liletta release a type of progestin hormone called levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. This hormone is highly effective at preventing pregnancy. The Link to Weight Gain: Some people who use hormonal IUDs, particularly Mirena, do report experiencing weight gain. However, medical studies and clinical trials have not found a strong, direct link between hormonal IUDs and significant weight gain. What's Really Happening: The weight gain that is sometimes reported is often not an increase in body fat, but rather water retention and bloating . The progestin hormone can ...