Contraceptives & weight gain: what's fact, what's fear?

Lifestyle changes play big role in weight control

- By Mbalenhle Zuma

The link between contraceptives and weight gain has long been a source of anxiety, debate, and confusion.

For some women, it is a lived experience; for others, it is fear that influences their reproductive choices long before they even step into a clinic.

But what does the science say, and why do some women gain weight while others don’t?

To clear the air, we turned to Dr Dulcy Rakumakoe, a medical doctor and CEO of Quad Care Clinics, who has become a widely trusted voice in providing accessible and compassionate healthcare.

With her insight, we unpack the truths, the myths, and the empowering strategies every woman deserves to know.

While many women believe that contraceptives automatically cause weight gain, research shows the picture is more nuanced.

According to Rakumakoe, most contraceptives cause little to no long-term weight gain.

However, some hormones can trigger increased appetite, temporary water retention, and mild metabolic changes.

The contraceptive most strongly associated with weight gain is Depo-Provera, commonly known as the injection. Some women using hormonal implants or certain birth control pills may also report weight changes.