How Lutera Can Affect Your Weight
Lutera is a popular brand of combination birth control pills that contains the hormones ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. It is usually prescribed to prevent pregnancy, but can also be used to help manage conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Like other birth control pills, Lutera does have some side effects. One common side effect is changes in body weight. This article explores the evidence around whether Lutera causes weight gain.
Studies on Lutera and Weight Gain
Several studies have been conducted to investigate whether using Lutera leads to an increase in body weight. Overall, research findings are mixed.
A large study published in 2013 looked at the health records of over 1,500 women in the U.S. aged 15 to 44 years. It found that after 12 months of Lutera use, 27% of women gained a modest amount of weight (4.4 pounds or less on average), while 13% lost weight.
Interestingly, a 2018 study comparing four common birth control pills found less weight gain with levonorgestrel pills like Lutera. Over one year, Lutera users gained an average of 4 pounds compared to users of other pill brands who gained up to 8 pounds.
While these studies show that some weight gain is common with Lutera use, the amount of weight change varies considerably among individuals. Many women using Lutera experience little to no noticeable change on the scale.
Possible Reasons for Weight Gain on Lutera
Researchers theorize a few reasons why using Lutera may cause weight gain in some women:
- Increased appetite. The hormones in Lutera may increase hunger levels in some women, leading to overeating.
- Water retention. Lutera seems to have mild fluid retention effects, which could temporarily increase body weight.
- Changes in fat tissue. Some research indicates the estrogen in Lutera may cause more fat storage around the abdomen.
Tips to Maintain Weight on Lutera
While Lutera may make maintaining your usual weight a bit more challenging, there are things you can do to prevent weight gain while using this birth control pill:
- Watch portion sizes. Avoid eating overly large meals or constant snacking.
- Choose healthier foods. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods over empty calories.
- Stay active. Regular exercise can help counter increases in appetite.
- Drink more water. Proper hydration may limit fluid retention effects.
- Monitor weight monthly. Small gains can sneak up unnoticed, so regular weigh-ins are key.
Other Side Effects of Lutera
In addition to potential weight gain, Lutera does have some other common side effects including:
Breast Tenderness
Many women notice breast tenderness shortly after starting Lutera. This usually resolves within 2-3 months as your body adjusts to the medication. Wearing a comfortable bra can help reduce discomfort.
Headaches
Its not uncommon to get headaches when first using Lutera. Like breast tenderness, headaches typically improve over time. Taking an over-the-counter painkiller like acetaminophen can help in the meantime.
Mood Changes
Some women using Lutera report mood swings, anxiety, or depression. Notify your doctor if you experience any concerning mental health symptoms. Mood changes may warrant adjusting your Lutera dose or switching contraceptive methods.
Beyond these short-term effects, using Lutera offers long-term health perks like pregnancy prevention and more regular menstrual cycles. Still, pay attention to your body if unpleasant symptoms persist over several cycles, consult your healthcare provider.
Who Should Not Take Lutera?
While Lutera is considered safe for most healthy women, it is not appropriate for everyone. You may be advised against using Lutera if you:
- Smoke and are over age 35
- Have a history blood clots
- Have certain migraine headaches
- Have liver disease or liver tumors
- Have breast or uterine cancer
- Have uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Have diabetes with vascular complications
Tell your doctor about any medical conditions, medications, or supplements you currently take. This will help determine if Lutera might interact with other drugs or exacerbate existing health issues.
The Bottom Line
Research has shown that some women do gain a small amount of weight after starting the birth control pill Lutera. However, studies find less weight gain effects with Lutera compared to other combined hormonal contraceptives.
If you do gain weight on Lutera, the amount tends to be modest around 4 pounds or less for the average user. Plus, simple lifestyle measures like eating healthy and exercising can help stabilize weight while using Lutera.
While Lutera can have side effects like headaches or mood changes, these often resolve within a few months. If unpleasant symptoms persist long-term or are severe, consult your doctor about adjusting your Lutera dose or switching birth control methods.
FAQs
How much weight do women typically gain on Lutera?
Studies show most women gain between 0-5 pounds after 1 year of using Lutera birth control pills. A small percentage of women do gain more, but large weight gains are uncommon.
Does everyone gain weight on Lutera?
No, not all women gain weight with Lutera use. Clinical studies found that around 40% of Lutera users had no weight change or even lost weight over 1 year. Weight changes vary widely based on the individual.
How long does it take to gain weight on Lutera?
Most Lutera-related weight gain occurs gradually over 6-12 months. Rapid weight gain shortly after starting is less common. Track your weight monthly to catch small fluctuations.
Should I stop taking Lutera if I gain weight?
Not necessarily – modest weight gain up to 5 pounds is common with many birth control pill brands. But if you gain significant weight that does not improve with diet/exercise changes, talk to your doctor about switching methods.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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