There is a myth that certain types of birth control can make a woman's body fat. But there's no need to worry, because there are several options for birth control devices that don't make women fat. By knowing what birth control devices are, you can prevent pregnancy while maintaining an ideal body weight.
Many people think that birth control can increase appetite, thus triggering weight gain. Actually, all types of contraception or family planning (including hormonal contraceptives) are not proven to make the body fat or obese.
The type of hormonal contraception that is currently used has been adjusted in dosage so that it does not have a significant effect on weight gain. After all, weight gain can be prevented, how come.
Weight gain is usually caused by several factors, such as an unhealthy lifestyle (for example, rarely exercising and often eating foods that are high in fat, sugar, or calories), increasing age, or having certain health problems.
Various types of family planning that don't make you fat
If the use of hormonal contraception makes you worried about weight gain, then the following types of contraception can be an option for you:
1. IUD
IUD or Intra Uterine DeviceKB, also known as spiral birth control, is a T-shaped birth control device measuring about 3 cm in size that is inserted into the uterus. There are two types of IUDs that are generally used, namely those that contain hormones or those that do not contain hormones.
The nonhormonal IUD has a copper coil around it and acts as a spermicide that kills sperm. This type of contraception can be used for up to 10 years.
While the IUD that contains hormones is equipped with the hormone progestin which functions to thicken the mucus in the cervix and prevent fertilization in the uterus. The hormonal IUD can be used for up to 3-5 years.
IUDs do not cause the body to gain weight. A small percentage of women who use hormonal IUDs may experience a slight increase in weight, but the increase is not significant enough to make the body obese.
2. Spermicide
Spermicide is a type of contraceptive that serves to kill sperm cells. Birth control devices are available in the form of creams, gels, or tablets that are inserted into the vagina before sex. Some types of condoms are also coated with spermicide.
However, this birth control device can cause allergies or irritation in some people. Symptoms can include burning, itching, or redness of the intimate organs when used during sexual intercourse.
3. Cervical cap
Cervical cap is a contraceptive device that is placed in the mouth of the uterus or cervix, thus blocking the entrance of sperm to the uterus. This tool is made of flexible rubber. Cervical cap will work effectively to prevent pregnancy when used together with spermicides.
4. Diaphragm
Same as cervical capContraceptive diaphragms are also placed in the cervix and block the entry of sperm into the uterus. The difference between the two is the size of the diaphragm contraception which is larger than the diaphragm cervical cap. The diaphragm is also more effective when used with spermicides.
In order for the installation to be more precise and effective in preventing pregnancy, this contraceptive device can be installed by a midwife or doctor.
5. Condoms
Condoms are made of latex which prevents sperm from entering the vagina and uterus. This contraceptive is available for both men and women. In men, condoms are used during sexual intercourse. Meanwhile, female condoms can be inserted into the vagina at least eight hours before having sex.
The various types of contraceptives mentioned above generally do not affect the body's hormones. Therefore, this type of contraception does not interfere with breastfeeding and has no effect on weight gain.
In addition to the types of contraception above, other contraceptive methods, such as hormonal contraception (such as birth control pills or injections) and steady contraception, also did not cause a significant increase in body weight.
Some types of hormonal birth control can indeed make a woman's weight increase slightly. But health research so far shows that weight gain is not significant for causing obesity. If you are still confused or unsure about which type of family planning is the most suitable, you are advised to consult a doctor to get the best advice.