Will taking emergency contraceptive pills cause weight gain, and how long does it last?

Taking emergency contraceptive pills may lead to weight gain, though this typically lasts only about a month. If taken just once, weight gain might not occur at all, and individual responses vary. The details are as follows:

1. Yes

Emergency contraceptive pills mainly contain estrogen and progestin. Estrogen may cause water and sodium retention. Long-term use of these pills could lead to weight gain due to excessive fluid retention. Therefore, taking emergency contraceptives might result in weight gain. If weight gain occurs, it can be managed through dietary adjustments and increased physical activity, usually returning to the desired weight within a month. Emergency contraceptive pills should be taken no more than once per month and no more than three times per year to avoid potential harm to the body.

2. No

If only a single dose is taken, the levels of estrogen and progestin introduced into the body are low and generally not enough to cause obesity. Even though emergency contraceptives may not necessarily lead to weight gain, they should not be used as a regular method of birth control. It is recommended to use proper protection during sexual intercourse to avoid frequent reliance on contraceptive pills.

Women are advised to take emergency contraceptive pills within 72 hours after intercourse; the sooner they are taken within this window, the more effective they will be. Ideally, the pill should be taken on an empty stomach to prevent food from interfering with its absorption and effectiveness.