Do oral contraceptives affect a woman's metabolism?
Our evidence-based analysis features 5 unique references to scientific papers.
Written by Kamal Patel
Last Updated:
Last Updated:
No negative effect on metabolism has been found.[1][2]
Other studies found that women on oral contraceptives had slightly (3-5%) raised metabolism.[3][4]
We can safely concluded that there is no negative effect on your metabolism from oral contraceptives, and it may actually increase it slightly.
Oral contraceptives based on antiandrogens may make it harder to gain muscle mass,[5] but there is still far too little research in that area to make a statement of certainty.
Related Articles
- How do I calculate my metabolism?
- How do I stay out of "starvation mode?"
- Is my “slow metabolism” stalling my weight loss?
- Does vinegar increase metabolism?
- Do you need to eat six times a day to keep your metabolism high?
- Does metabolism vary between two people?
- What supplement or food changes are recommended for pregnant or expecting women?
- Will my breasts shrink with weight loss?
- I am a female. Will lifting heavy weights make me bulky?
- If you’re female, is sex healthy?
- Can I take something to alleviate premenstrual symptoms?
References
- ^ Roy S, et al. Comparison of metabolic and clinical effects of four oral contraceptive formulations and a contraceptive vaginal ring. Am J Obstet Gynecol. (1980)
- ^ Godsland IF, et al. Relationships between blood pressure, oral contraceptive use and metabolic risk markers for cardiovascular disease. Contraception. (1995)
- ^ Diffey B, et al. The effect of oral contraceptive agents on the basal metabolic rate of young women. Br J Nutr. (1997)
- ^ Piers LS, et al. The validity of predicting the basal metabolic rate of young Australian men and women. Eur J Clin Nutr. (1997)
- ^ Ruzić L, Matković BR, Leko G. Antiandrogens in hormonal contraception limit muscle strength gain in strength training: comparison study. Croat Med J. (2003)
