Intrauterine Devices

It is a contraceptive device used as a reversible birth control method. It is inserted into the female uterus. There are two types of IUDs i) Copper Intrauterine Device and ii) Hormonal Intrauterine Device. 

Copper Intra Uterine Device – It is a plastic T-shaped device, wrapped with copper wire. It causes an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that is harmful to sperm. This helps in avoiding unwanted pregnancy. The device can be there for ten years before it needs to get replaced. It has side effects such as cramping, backaches, heavy bleeding, vaginal discharge, severe pain, anemia that are commonly seen.

Hormonal Intra Uterine Device – It is a plastic T-shaped device that releases hormone progestin inside the uterus. It causes thickening of cervical mucus which further prevents the sperm from reaching eggs thereby avoiding fertilization. The hormone also causes thinning of the uterine lining that stops releasing of eggs.

A hormonal IUD lasts for three to five years before it needs to replace. Common side effects include irregular periods, changes in menstrual bleeding, depression, acme, headaches. 

Weight gain can be due to lifestyle 

Weight gain is a result of lifestyle choices and not your birth control technique. Studies show that IUD methods may contribute to some amount of weight gain. However, there can be many other causes of weight gain other than this method. Placement of an IUD has to be done by a registered medical practitioner and not by anyone else. You have to contact your doctor if you see any other side effects other than those mentioned above after getting IUD placed. Getting an IUD placed does not mean that you can not get a sexually transmitted infection. You still have to use barrier methods like condoms in order to protect yourself and your partner from STDs. 

There are several studies that indicate that IUDs will not cause weight gain. However, a woman may gain weight during her reproductive years irrespective of any birth control method. If any women feel that she has gained weight post implementing IUD, should talk to the doctor immediately. 

Maintaining healthy body weight

In order to lose weight, one may avoid having calories and start burning extra calories. Eating a balanced diet, full of fruits and vegetables, proteins and minerals, avoiding high-fat meats, fried foods, reducing consumption of high-calorie beverages, drinking plenty of water, are some of the tips which help in losing one’s weight. 

Maintaining a healthy weight needs regular exercises and work out. One must include yoga, pranayama, aerobic exercises, stretching, bodyweight exercises. Daily brisk walking of 30 minutes is also beneficial in this. 

Doctor Consultation is important

Before opting for any birth control method, you need to figure out what is the right method for you as per your body profile. One has to manage the body weight as it is an important factor in maintaining overall health. Talk to your doctor if you have any queries related to the IUD method. If you still find a significant weight gain even after doing exercise and eating a well-balanced diet, it may be because of any medical problem. A doctor can easily help to find the best IUD method as per the lifestyle and reproductive plans.