Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a popular and effective method of birth control, offering convenience and reliability for several years. However, like many forms of contraception, IUDs can come with potential side effects, leading some individuals to wonder about a possible link between Mirena (a hormonal IUD) and weight changes. While anecdotal reports suggest a connection, scientific research remains limited. This article aims to explore the relationship between Mirena, weight loss, and weight gain, providing a comprehensive overview of the available evidence and potential contributing factors.
IUDs: A Primer
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped plastic device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy. According to Planned Parenthood, IUDs prevent pregnancy for anywhere from 3 to 12 years. This time frame varies depending on the type and brand of IUD you choose. IUDs are a highly effective method of birth control, and plenty of people find them convenient as well as effective, boasting a less than 1% risk of pregnancy each year. They are a great choice for those who often forget to take their daily birth control pills and can be used by women of all ages, according to the CDC.
There are two main types of IUDs:
- Hormonal IUDs: These IUDs, such as Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, and Skyla, release small amounts of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel into the uterus.
- Copper IUDs: These IUDs are hormone-free and utilize plastic and copper coils. Copper acts as a natural spermicide, killing sperm before it can reach an egg.
Anecdotal Reports: Weight Changes and the "Mirena Crash"
Many people report these side effects as mild and almost unnoticeable. Other people, however, find they experience more severe, long-lasting symptoms. Some say these effects persist for months after the IUD is removed. Anecdotal reports suggest that it’s possible to experience unwanted changes in weight, not only while the IUD remains in place but also after its removal. Once your IUD is removed, you might notice weight gain, weight loss, or difficulty losing weight, even with changes in diet and exercise. Some people describe a collection of symptoms dubbed the “Mirena crash.” These symptoms include weight changes. However, there’s little research that currently supports this effect.
The Role of Hormones
Since the evidence for weight gain (or loss) after IUD removal is largely anecdotal, there isn’t a conclusive scientific explanation for why this happens. It may relate to changes in hormones, which in turn affect appetite, mood, and energy levels. Some people notice some weight gain while taking hormonal birth control. When they stop taking birth control, it can take a few months for their hormone levels to return to baseline. Fluctuations in weight could happen as part of this process. The same goes for the IUD. After removal, the body has to adjust to the sudden drop in progestin. In theory, this hormone imbalance could lead to weight fluctuations and other symptoms people report as being part of the Mirena crash.
Read also: Weight Loss with Mirena and PCOS
Understanding Weight Gain with Hormonal IUDs
Weight gain can happen with hormonal IUDs due to the hormone, progestin. Any IUD weight gain is likely not an increase in body fat, but instead an increase in water retention. The hormone progestin may increase water retention that causes bloating, typically adding about five pounds. It’s important to know that gaining any weight post-insertion is likely due to the patient’s lifestyle as opposed to the IUD itself. Consider making some lifestyle changes to avoid weight gain after getting an IUD. Should bloating not subside three months after IUD insertion, consider speaking with a healthcare professional about other options.
Mirena and Weight Gain: What Does the Research Say?
Mirena has not been shown to cause weight gain. Less than 10% of Mirena users experienced weight gain in its manufacturer clinical trials. There was not enough evidence to show that these participants’ weight gain was caused by Mirena. If you experience weight gain with Kyleena, try to find the cause of the weight gain. Was there a recent change in your life that may be causing it? There is a multitude of reasons that someone can gain weight. Kyleena does not have evidence of weight gain by itself, but an initial weight gain of a few pounds due to water retention should not be alarming. Practicing a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent weight gain.
Copper IUDs and Weight
Studies have shown that Copper IUDs do not cause weight gain. This is because they do not have progestin, the hormone present in hormonal IUDs that causes water retention. If you gain weight unexplainably with a copper IUD, speak to a healthcare provider.
The "Mirena Crash": A Closer Look at Post-Removal Symptoms
After the removal of Mirena and other hormonal IUDs, some people report additional side effects beyond weight changes, including:
- Nausea
- Decreased sex drive
- Depression, anxiety, and other mood changes
- Fatigue and energy loss
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Hair loss
- Acne
- Pain during sex
- Breast pain or tenderness
These symptoms might not always happen immediately after removal. Some people report noticing changes several weeks later.It’s worth noting that other potential Mirena crash symptoms, such as depression and insomnia, may also play a part in weight gain.
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Limited Research: Why the Uncertainty?
The lack of scientific research on the effects of IUD removal means there’s no clear timeline for how long these symptoms may last. To date, the research on IUD removal doesn’t support the existence of any long-term side effects, including weight changes. Of course, one possible explanation for this is limited studies exploring IUD removal. Future research examining the possible long-term effects of IUD removal may help understand potential symptoms and their causes.
Traditionally, medical research has focused on people assigned male at birth and has not adequately explored health and reproductive health concerns for people assigned female at birth.This may explain why many reports are anecdotal from those who experience it personally.
Managing Potential Side Effects and Promoting Wellness
Experiencing unwanted weight gain and other side effects after taking birth control can be distressing and overwhelming, especially when symptoms leave you feeling a lack of control over your own body. After multiple discouraging responses from my doctor, I finally realized I was the only one going to advocate for myself. My body and mind went through an enormous amount of change due to birth control, all of which was denied by my medical system at that time. I continue to worry about the long term effects Levonorgestrel will have on my body and other women’s bodies. Sharing is Caring. I would like to recognize that hormonal birth control works different in every women’s body. There are women who love and use birth control for many many years without issue. The reason I share is because I was made to believe my birth control was harmless. When in reality, it was destroying me from the inside. There is a massive disconnect in the education and awareness around birth control, women’s health, and their bodies. I was truly made to believe that this was the best thing for my body, when in reality, it brought me years of health problems.
Rather than drastically cutting calories or ramping up your exercise routine to the point where you feel exhausted, aim for changes that promote overall wellness and leave you feeling nourished and empowered. These strategies can help improve both mood and physical health:
- Choose high fiber, mood-boosting foods.
- Stay hydrated.
- Spend more time outdoors, especially in sunlight.
- Make physical activity a regular habit if you’re able to exercise.
- Try to sleep between 7 and 9 hours every night.
- Consider wellness practices like yoga and meditation.
- Reach out to friends and loved ones for emotional support.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If any unwanted side effects linger for more than several weeks after IUD removal, it may be helpful to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Healthy weight loss can take time, but if you’re making an effort to lose weight and see no results over time, a healthcare professional can offer more support. If these symptoms involve depression, anxiety, and other mood changes, a mental health professional can help you explore possible causes and offer guidance on treatment approaches. It’s always a good idea to reach out sooner rather than later if your side effects or symptoms begin to affect your everyday life or cause significant distress.
Read also: Beef jerky: A high-protein option for shedding pounds?
IUDs and Endometrial Health: A Note on Progestin and Weight Loss
This study found that weight loss improves response rates in women with obesity and atypical hyperplasia or low-risk endometrial cancer undergoing conservative management with intrauterine progestin. Intrauterine progestin is a treatment option for women with atypical hyperplasia or low-risk endometrial cancer who wish to preserve their fertility, or whose poor surgical fitness precludes safe hysterectomy. We hypothesized that in such women with obesity, weight loss during progestin treatment may improve oncological outcomes. This study found that weight loss improves response rates in women with obesity and atypical hyperplasia or low-risk endometrial cancer undergoing conservative management with intrauterine progestin. Obesity is the major risk factor for type I endometrial cancer and its precursor lesion, atypical hyperplasia (1).
The Importance of Individualized Care
Choosing the best contraceptive product is very individualized. The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.