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Weight Gain Causes in Women

For many women, eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise is not enough to stave off weight gain, because of underlying causes such as a hormonal imbalance. In addition to sudden weight gain, Patients Medical states that "Some physical indicators of a possible hormonal imbalance include acne, hair loss, night sweats and reduced libido."

  1. Hypothyroidism

    • The thyroid is a gland located in the neck responsible for regulating your metabolism as well as maintaining function of other hormones. When this gland is underactive, it is known as hypothyroidism. Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN NP, explains that, "Patients with an underactive thyroid tend to have a very low basal metabolic rate. One of the most noticeable symptoms of hypothyroidism is weight gain and difficulty losing extra weight." A TSH test can tell you if you have an abnormal or normal amount of thyroid hormones.

    Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

    • Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) have many cysts on their ovaries and this creates problems within the body such as excessive hair growth, infertility and weight gain. According to Insulite Laboratories, insulin resistance is a major factor in weight gain because of glucose being converted into energy. "Sugar is sent to the liver where it is converted into fat and then stored throughout the body. The end result can be weight gain and obesity." Although there is no cure for PCOS, having a balanced diet, frequent exercise and taking medicine that controls insulin may help prevent further weight gain.

    Menopause

    • Of menopausal women, 12 to 15 percent gain excess weight, notably in their abdomen. Fluctuating hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, androgen and testosterone are contributing factors to increased weight. During menopause, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels drop, leading to increased appetite, water retention and weight gain. Androgen levels increase, resulting in fat depositing in the abdomen instead of the hips. To combat excess weight, implement lifestyle changes and try herbal supplements to balance hormone levels.

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