The lack of research on IUD-related weight changes makes it difficult to determine how your weight might change following IUD removal. More studies are needed to support the possibility of weight loss or gain.

An intrauterine device (IUD) sits inside your uterus, preventing pregnancy for anywhere from 3 to 12 years, according to Planned Parenthood. This time frame varies depending on the type and brand of IUD you choose.

Most birth control types have the potential to cause side effects, including weight changes, and IUDs are no exception.

Many people report these side effects as mild and almost unnoticeable.

Other people, however, find they experience more severe, long-lasting symptoms. Some say these effects persist for months after the IUD is removed.

IUDs are a highly effective method of birth control, and plenty of people find them convenient as well as effective.

That said, anecdotal reports suggest that it’s possible to experience unwanted changes in weight, not only while the IUD remains in place but also after its removal.

Once your IUD is removed, you might notice:

  • weight gain
  • weight loss
  • difficulty losing weight, even with changes in diet and exercise

Some people describe a collection of symptoms dubbed the “Mirena crash.” These symptoms include weight changes. However, there’s little research that currently supports this effect.

Since the evidence for weight gain (or loss) after IUD removal is largely anecdotal, there isn’t a conclusive scientific explanation for why this happens.

It may relate to changes in hormones, which in turn affect appetite, mood, and energy levels.

Some people notice some weight gain while taking hormonal birth control. When they stop taking birth control, it can take a few months for their hormone levels to return to baseline. Fluctuations in weight could happen as part of this process.

The same goes for the IUD. After removal, the body has to adjust to the sudden drop in progestin. In theory, this hormone imbalance could lead to weight fluctuations and other symptoms people report as being part of the Mirena crash.

It’s worth noting that other potential Mirena crash symptoms, such as depression and insomnia, may also play a part in weight gain.

What’s the reason for the lack of research?

Traditionally, medical research has focused on people assigned male at birth and has not adequately explored health and reproductive health concerns for people assigned female at birth.

The large gender gap in clinical trials means researchers may know far less about how medications and side effects affect those assigned female at birth, including the effects of hormonal birth control.

This may explain why many reports are anecdotal from those who experience it personally.

If you notice significant weight changes despite eating and exercising the same way, it’s not unreasonable that you’d want to consider other factors, such as your IUD or its recent removal.

You might experience short-term side effects, such as cramping, bleeding, or dizziness after a healthcare professional removes your IUD.

After the removal of Mirena and other hormonal IUDs, some people report additional side effects beyond weight changes, including:

These symptoms might not always happen immediately after removal. Some people report noticing changes several weeks later.

The lack of scientific research on the effects of IUD removal means there’s no clear timeline for how long these symptoms may last.

Some people report weight changes and other symptoms cleared up within a few weeks. Others say they had a hard time losing weight for months after removal. And still others don’t notice any changes at all.

As the hormones in your body return to typical levels, these side effects will most likely go away naturally. The time this takes can vary, but many people notice improvement within a few months.

Experiencing unwanted weight gain and other side effects after taking birth control can be distressing and overwhelming, especially when symptoms leave you feeling a lack of control over your own body.

Rather than drastically cutting calories or ramping up your exercise routine to the point where you feel exhausted, aim for changes that promote overall wellness and leave you feeling nourished and empowered.

These strategies can help improve both mood and physical health:

If any unwanted side effects linger for more than several weeks after IUD removal, it may be helpful to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Healthy weight loss can take time, but if you’re making an effort to lose weight and see no results over time, a healthcare professional can offer more support.

If these symptoms involve depression, anxiety, and other mood changes, a mental health professional can help you explore possible causes and offer guidance on treatment approaches.

It’s always a good idea to reach out sooner rather than later if your side effects or symptoms begin to affect your everyday life or cause significant distress.

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To date, the research on IUD removal doesn’t support the existence of any long-term side effects, including weight changes. Of course, one possible explanation for this is limited studies exploring IUD removal.

Future research examining the possible long-term effects of IUD removal may help understand potential symptoms and their causes.

For now, just remember: You know what’s typical for your body. If you notice any unusual changes in physical or mental health, it’s always a good idea to connect with a healthcare professional.

Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health. In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues.