Let’s talk birth control. With perfect use, most forms of hormonal contraception are 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s no wonder, then, that hormonal birth control pills, implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are among the most popular contraceptives used by women today.
But despite their widespread use, many women are concerned about the side effects of birth control such as headaches, nausea and changes to their period. But its weight gain that typically tops the list of worries. The fear of packing on extra pounds is enough to steer many women away from hormonal contraceptives. Or women might abruptly stop taking them if they perceive that the scale’s number creeps upward, which raises the chances of an unplanned pregnancy if other measures aren’t used.
