MBChB, PGDipObstMedGyn, MRMed, FRANZCOG, CREI Subspecialty trained
MBChB, PGDipObstMedGyn, MRMed, FRANZCOG,
CREI Subspecialty Fellow
Orange Flower
Orange Flower
Orange Flower

GLP-1 agonist medications and fertility

fertility

Those “skinny jabs,” or GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda are getting a lot of attention lately. These medications are not just for weight loss; they also play a role in managing diabetes and metabolic health and work by signaling to your body that you've had enough to eat and help to regulate your digestion and appetite. 

For women who are overweight and dealing with metabolic changes, GLP-1 agonist medications can have surprising benefits. Not only do they help with weight loss, but they can also help regulate ovulation, which may improve chances of conception. Furthermore, it has been suggested that these medications may reduce inflammation and even help with fibrosis in the ovaries and uterus, both of which can have a positive impact on fertility. However, it’s important to note that these medications should always be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. 

Contraception:

All women on these medications should be on effective contraception and this is especially important with Mounjaro. All women should be on non-oral or barrier contraception during the first four weeks after starting Mounjaro or after any dose increase. 

Trying for pregnancy:

It’s important to discontinue these medications at least two months before trying to conceive. If you accidentally get pregnant while on any of these medications, you should stop taking them immediately and talk to us.

Before surgery:

If you're planning to undergo surgery, including an egg collection, it’s important to tell us when you were last on the GLP-1 agonist medication as this will affect the fasting advice.