Birth Control & Women's Health

Does Nuvaring Cause Weight Gain?

Faith Coleman

Medically reviewed by Faith Coleman, University of New Mexico School of Medicine on August 20th, 2026.

NuvaRing is a combined hormonal contraceptive vaginal ring. It may be associated with modest weight gain in some women, but research shows mixed results. Clinical studies indicate that about 4-8% of users experience weight changes, with these gaining 1-3 pounds over the first year. The hormones in NuvaRing (ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel) can increase appetite and cause fluid retention, leading to temporary weight fluctuations. However, long-term studies suggest that significant weight gain is uncommon, and many reported changes may be due to lifestyle factors rather than the ring itself. Individual responses vary considerably, with some women experiencing no weight changes at all.

Still have questions about this?

Ask your AI Doctor

Keep exploring

Related Questions

From the blog

More from Doctronic