Viral video claiming weight gain sparks distrust among hormonal birth control users
The caption, “This could be why you gained weight after going on the birth control pill #fyp #hypothyroidism #autoimmunedisease,” implies that weight gain is often caused by underlying conditions like hypothyroidism or autoimmune disease. It also falsely claims that birth control pills contribute to “gut permeability”. The overall body of evidence has not found a significant link between combined oral contraceptives and substantial weight gain for most users. Framing weight gain as a direct result of the pill or undiagnosed autoimmune disease risks spreading confusion, stigmatizing both contraception and chronic illness, and may discourage patients from seeking appropriate care or effective contraceptive options.
