Kyleena IUD and Its Association with Decreased Energy and Weight Gain
Yes, the Kyleena (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) IUD can potentially cause decreased energy and weight gain in some users, although the evidence is mixed and these effects are not universally experienced.
Weight Changes with Kyleena IUD
Healthcare providers should consider assessing weight changes and counseling women who are concerned about weight changes perceived to be associated with their contraceptive method 1.
Research specifically on LNG-IUS users showed a mean body weight gain of 2.9 kg after 12 months of use, which was statistically significant (p=0.0012) 2.
LNG-IUS users demonstrated a 2.5% gain in fat mass (p=0.0009) and a 1.4% loss of lean mass over a 12-month period 2.
Although weight gain was observed in LNG-IUS users, it's worth noting that copper IUD users (non-hormonal) also experienced some weight gain (1.4 kg), suggesting that not all weight changes can be attributed solely to hormonal effects 2.
Energy Levels and Hormonal IUDs
While the guidelines do not specifically mention decreased energy as a side effect of Kyleena, hormonal contraceptives containing progestins (like levonorgestrel) can affect energy levels in some women 1.
The levonorgestrel in Kyleena is released directly into the uterine cavity, causing pronounced endometrial suppression, but the dose is low enough that the effect on ovarian function is generally negligible 3.
This localized effect means that systemic side effects like fatigue are less common with hormonal IUDs compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods, but they can still occur in some users 3.
Counseling Recommendations
Healthcare providers should advise women to return at any time to discuss side effects or other problems related to their IUD 1.
At routine visits, healthcare providers should assess the woman's satisfaction with her contraceptive method and whether she has any concerns about method use 1.
For women concerned about weight changes, providers should assess these changes and provide appropriate counseling 1.
Alternative Options
For women who experience unacceptable side effects like significant weight gain or decreased energy, providers should counsel them on alternative contraceptive methods 1.
Weight-neutral contraceptive options that minimize hormonal exposure include barrier methods and copper intrauterine devices 1.
If a woman finds the side effects unacceptable, she should be offered another contraceptive method 1.
Important Considerations
Individual responses to hormonal contraceptives vary significantly, and not all women will experience weight gain or decreased energy with Kyleena 1.
The benefits of using Kyleena (99% efficacy in preventing pregnancy) must be weighed against potential side effects 4.
Weight changes and energy levels should be monitored over time, as some side effects may diminish after the initial adjustment period 1.