Effectiveness of Complementary Counseling in Controlling Weight Gain among Hormonal Contraceptive Users
Keywords:
Complementary Counseling, Contraceptive Acceptors, Family Planning, Hormonal Contraception, Weight GainAbstract
Background : Hormonal contraception is one of the most widely used family planning methods because of its high effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. However, weight gain remains one of the most frequently reported side effects and often contributes to dissatisfaction, poor adherence, and discontinuation of contraceptive use. Complementary counseling, which integrates education on hormonal contraception with nutritional guidance, physical activity promotion, weight monitoring, and motivational support, has the potential to minimize these adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of complementary counseling in controlling weight gain among hormonal contraceptive users. Methods : This study employed a quantitative quasi-experimental design using a pretest–posttest control group approach. A total of 60 hormonal contraceptive users were recruited through consecutive sampling and equally assigned to an intervention group (n=30) and a control group (n=30). Participants in the intervention group received complementary counseling for eight weeks, whereas the control group received routine family planning counseling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, observation forms, and calibrated digital weight scales. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, paired t-test, independent t-test, and multiple linear regression, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results : Participants who received complementary counseling experienced a mean weight reduction of 0.70 ± 0.48 kg, whereas the control group demonstrated a mean weight increase of 0.90 ± 0.55 kg. The independent t-test indicated a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis identified complementary counseling as the strongest predictor of weight change (β = -0.61; p < 0.001) after adjustment for age, baseline body mass index, and contraceptive type. Conclusion : Complementary counseling is effective in controlling weight gain among hormonal contraceptive users. Integrating contraceptive education with nutritional counseling, physical activity guidance, regular weight monitoring, and motivational reinforcement may improve the quality of family planning services and enhance continuation of hormonal contraceptive use. These findings provide evidence to support the implementation of comprehensive counseling programs in primary healthcare settings.
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