Quick Answer
Most women gain little to no weight on Nexplanon. Studies show average weight gain is 2-4 lbs over 3 years. However, some women gain more due to increased appetite. Weight gain varies per individual. Those already overweight/obese tend to gain more.
How Does Nexplanon Cause Weight Gain?
Nexplanon contains the hormone progestin, which can increase appetite and lead to fluid retention in some women. This combination can promote weight gain in the following ways:
Increased Appetite
Progestin mimics the hormone progesterone. Higher progesterone levels can stimulate appetite and cause food cravings in some women. This leads to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain over time. One study found 15% of Nexplanon users reported increased appetite.
Fluid Retention
The progestin in Nexplanon may also cause the body to retain more fluid in the breasts, hips, and thighs. This leads to temporary weight gain from water retention. The extra fluid also makes some women feel bloated while on Nexplanon.
Fat Storage
There is some evidence progestin can promote fat storage, particularly in the abdomen, hips, and thighs. So while on Nexplanon, women may notice more fat storage in these areas. However, research is still limited on progestin’s effects on fat distribution.
Slowed Metabolism
Some research indicates progestin can slightly lower metabolic rate, allowing the body to burn fewer calories at rest. A slower metabolism makes it easier to gain weight over time if calorie intake remains high. However, studies show only a minor metabolic effect from progestin.
Emotional Eating
For some women, side effects like mood changes on Nexplanon can trigger emotional eating. Fatigue, irritability, anxiety, and depression may lead to overeating behaviors as a coping mechanism. Comfort foods and binge eating episodes can contribute to gradual weight gain.
So in summary, Nexplanon can directly increase appetite and possibly slow metabolism. But it may also contribute indirectly to overeating behaviors due to side effects like fluid retention, fatigue, and mood changes. These factors explain why some women gain more weight than others on Nexplanon.
How Much Weight Do Women Typically Gain on Nexplanon?
Most studies show the average weight gain on Nexplanon is around 2-4 pounds over the 3 year period. However, there is significant individual variation:
- Up to 15% of women lose weight on Nexplanon
- Around 55% maintain their original weight
- 20-30% gain a modest amount of weight (5 lbs or less)
- 10-20% gain more significant weight (>5 lbs)
Overall, substantial weight gain is uncommon. Only about 5% of Nexplanon users gain more than 11 pounds over 3 years according to clinical trials.
However, some women do report gaining 10, 15, 20 pounds or more. Weight gain is also more likely in certain subgroups:
- Those overweight/obese before starting Nexplanon
- Previous pregnancies or fluid retention during menses
- History of binge/emotional eating
- Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet
- Sensitivity to hormones/side effects
- Genetic predisposition to carry weight in hips/thighs
So while the average gain is fairly small, women prone to fluid retention, appetite changes, and weight gain from hormones tend to gain the most on Nexplanon.
Weight Gain Over First Year vs Years 2-3
Research shows weight gain on Nexplanon is most likely to occur in the first year. This is attributed to initial fluid retention and appetite stimulation from the higher hormone dose.
One study of over 200 women found:
- Average gain in Year 1: 2.1 lbs
- Average gain in Year 2: 1.7 lbs
- Average gain in Year 3: 0.4 lbs
So weight gain slowed down significantly after the first year as the body adjusted to Nexplanon’s effects. By the third year, weight gain was minimal for most women.
However, other studies show weight gain is still possible into the second and third years for some Nexplanon users. Appetite, fluid retention, and other effects may persist long-term for certain women.
This indicates the first year is critical for monitoring weight changes. Women who gain a noticeable amount of weight in the first 12 months are more likely to experience continued gains in years 2-3.
Typical Weight Gain Distribution on Body
Where women tend to gain weight on Nexplanon also varies:
Abdomen
Some gain is often seen in the stomach area from visceral fat deposition. One study found abdominal fat increased by 6% in Nexplanon users.
Breasts
Fluid retention and tissue growth related to the progestin effects on breast cells can increase breast size for some women.
Hips/Thighs
Many women notice the most obvious weight gain in their hips, thighs, and buttocks. Fat storage and fluid retention prominently affect these areas due to hormone sensitivity.
Upper Arms
Mild fat storage in the arms is also common with Nexplanon use according to anecdotal reports.
However, where women store fat is largely genetic. Those prone to central weight gain tend to deposit fat in the abdominal area. But peripheral weight gain shows up more in the hips, thighs, and backside.
Can Weight Gain on Nexplanon Be Prevented?
While some gain is common, there are steps women can take to minimize and manage weight on Nexplanon:
Exercise Regularly
Aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate exercise per week to help offset metabolic changes and appetite increases. Mix cardio and strength training.
Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods
Emphasize whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts and seeds. Avoid empty calorie foods.
Manage Fluid Intake
Drink 64-80 oz water daily to avoid extreme fluid retention. Limit sodium intake.
Address Increased Appetite
Plan healthy snacks. Avoid mindless eating in response to cravings.
Weigh Regularly
Weigh weekly or bi-weekly to catch gains early before they escalate. Monitor weight after the first 3-6 months when most gain occurs.
Consider Switching Contraceptives
If excessive weight gain occurs despite lifestyle efforts, discuss a different birth control option with your healthcare provider.
While Nexplanon does alter weight for some women, staying active, eating a balanced diet, and monitoring weight can help minimize gains. However, consult your doctor if weight becomes concerning on Nexplanon.
Will Weight Gain on Nexplanon Reverse After Removal?
Many women wonder if Nexplanon-related weight gain is permanent or reversible.
Research indicates most women slowly lose any weight gained on Nexplanon within 6-12 months after removal.
One study showed the average participant lost:
- 79% of gained weight at 6 months post-removal
- 95% of gained weight at 12 months post-removal
However, some women find it very difficult to shed the pounds after Nexplanon removal, especially with long-term use.
Factors that make losing Nexplanon weight gain more challenging:
- Genetic predisposition to hold onto weight
- History of yo-yo dieting
- High weight gain during use (>15 lbs)
- Long duration of Nexplanon use (over 2 years)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Switching to a contraceptive with similar hormones after removal
The first six months after discontinuing Nexplanon are key for focusing on healthy eating, exercise, and losing any unwanted weight.
For most women, sticking to a reduced calorie diet, boosting activity levels, and following other weight loss tips leads to gradual but successful weight loss post-removal. But patience and persistence are required, as it took months or years to gain the excess weight.
Returning to their original weight or clothing size is achievable for many who gained a noticeable amount on Nexplanon. But it depends on establishing the right diet and fitness habits after discontinuing use.
Conclusion
Nexplanon can cause mild weight gain in some users, but average gains are only 2-4 pounds over 3 years. Fluid retention, increased appetite, and possible metabolic changes promote gradual weight gain in a subset of women. However, for most, any increases will be small and reversible after removal with proper diet and exercise. Monitoring your weight, activity levels, and nutrition intake can help minimize excessive gains on Nexplanon. But discuss alternate birth control methods with your doctor if weight becomes a significant concern.