20+ Ways to Say No to Weight-Loss Talk or Being Weighed at the Doctor’s Office
You’re allowed to say NO (but it can be hard to do). Save this post for your next appointment so you can feel confident advocating for yourself.
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I asked not to be weighed at the doctor's for the first time last year, and I’m pretty sure that when she took my height, she still did it. Not only is that not okay, but asking in the first place was HARD. UGH.
You grow up thinking the doctor is the one in charge. They know what’s best. Right? In some cases, sure. But as I’ve taken ownership over my health, especially in my healing journey, I’ve learned that I also know a hell of a lot about my body and what it needs—and doesn’t need. In this case, to be weighed.
In the same vein, many of us don’t want to even discuss weight loss as an option or a health solution. (Because more often than not, that’s NOT the solution.)
If you’re feeling the same way, but are also nervous to ask (it really is awkward and challenging!), this resource is for you. Save this post and revisit it before heading to your next doctor’s appointment. Being prepared makes such a difference in how confident you feel advocating for yourself.
Note: In some cases, being weighed is a medical necessity. I am not saying what is or isn’t necessary or whether this is right for you. This does not replace medical advice. It is a resource for support purposes only.
When You Want to Opt Out of Being Weighed
You’re allowed to decline the scale. Here’s how to make it clear.
“I prefer not to be weighed unless it’s medically necessary—can we skip it today?”
“I decline to be weighed. Please note that in my chart.”
“I have a history of disordered eating and being weighed is not supportive for me.”
“Is the weight necessary for today’s care? If not, I’d like to opt out.”
“Can we do a blind weight if you absolutely need it for medication or dosage?”
“I’m working toward body trust and would rather not engage with the scale right now.”
When You Want to Set the Tone Early
Get ahead of it before the weight convo starts. These help you lead with clarity.
“Just a heads-up—I’m not open to weight-loss advice or weight-focused care today.”
“Let’s focus on the reason I came in. Weight is not a concern I want to address.”
“Please make a note in my chart that I prefer weight-neutral care.”
“I’ve had harmful experiences with weight-focused providers. I’m looking for a different approach.”
When They Bring Up Weight Anyway
If they push, you don’t have to fold. (It’s hard, we know!) Try these firm but clear responses.
“I’d like to revisit my boundaries; I’m not interested in weight-loss as a goal.”
“That suggestion isn’t supportive for me. Let’s explore other options.”
“Can we return to the concern I actually came in for?”
“Is there evidence this would help regardless of weight?”
“What would you recommend to a patient in a smaller body?”
When You Want to Name Mental Health or Lived Experience
If it feels safe, sharing your history can be a powerful way for the doctor to see why this is important to you and other patients.
“I’m in healing from disordered eating, so I need weight-neutral care.”
“Weight talk is a major trigger for me and not conducive to my healing.”
“I’ve harmed myself in the past trying to change my body. I’m not going back to that.”
When You’re Ready to Push Back or Walk Out
Self-advocacy sometimes means walking away from the wrong provider.
“If weight loss is the only suggestion, I’ll need to get a second opinion.”
“I’m looking for a provider who can see beyond my weight.”
“This conversation doesn’t feel aligned with the care I need. I’m ending the appointment here.”
So good!!! I wish more women felt empowered to say "NO thank you 😇" at the doctor's office!!