Women on popular weight-loss injections are experiencing a surprising side effect: unexpected pregnancies dubbed “Ozempic babies,” prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings about contraception.
At a Glance
- GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy appear to boost fertility by regularizing periods and restoring ovulation
- Health authorities have documented over 40 unexpected pregnancies among women using these medications
- The FDA recommends stopping these medications two months before attempting pregnancy
- Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, requiring additional protection
- These medications are not approved for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Weight Loss Drugs Unexpectedly Boosting Fertility
A wave of unplanned pregnancies is emerging among women using injectable weight-loss medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). These drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, were originally developed to treat diabetes but have gained popularity for their significant weight loss benefits. Women are sharing their experiences of unexpected pregnancies on social media using hashtags like #OzempicBaby, drawing attention to this unforeseen side effect of the medications.
The fertility boost appears to be directly linked to the medications’ effects on weight and metabolism. Significant weight loss from these drugs can restore normal ovulation patterns, regularize menstrual cycles, and rebalance hormone levels, particularly estrogen. For women with obesity-related fertility issues, these improvements can dramatically enhance their chances of conception, sometimes catching them by surprise while using contraception.
Health Authorities Sound the Alarm
The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a public alert after receiving reports of over 40 pregnancies among women using these weight-loss injections. The agency is now urging women to use effective contraception while on these medications. The FDA has also recommended that women stop using GLP-1 RAs at least two months before attempting to conceive due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
“This is because there is not enough safety data to know whether taking the medicine could cause harm to the baby,” the MHRA explained in their warning.
Of particular concern is Mounjaro (tirzepatide), which may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. The MHRA advises: “This only applies to those taking Mounjaro and is especially important for the four weeks after starting Mounjaro and after any dose increase.” Women using this medication are being advised to use barrier methods like condoms in addition to their regular contraception.
The Double-Edged Sword: Weight Loss and Pregnancy Risk
While pregnancy might be welcomed news for some women using these medications, health experts emphasize that GLP-1 RAs have not been proven safe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown potential risks, and there is limited human data available. Women are advised to stop these medications immediately if they become pregnant and notify their healthcare provider. This presents a challenging situation for women who benefit from the weight management these drugs provide.
“Skinny jabs are medicines licensed to treat specific medical conditions and should not be used as aesthetic or cosmetic treatments,” said Dr. Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that obesity itself poses significant risks during pregnancy, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and complications during delivery. Medical professionals are working to balance these competing concerns while addressing the unexpected fertility impacts of GLP-1 RAs. Men may also experience fertility benefits from these medications, with some studies suggesting improvements in semen quality.
What Women Should Know
Women currently using or considering GLP-1 RAs should be aware of the potential fertility effects and discuss appropriate contraception with their healthcare providers. Those who wish to become pregnant should work with their doctors on a plan to safely discontinue these medications before conception. The growing number of “Ozempic babies” serves as a reminder that weight and fertility are closely interconnected, and medications that affect one often impact the other.
“We often have to provide care without adequate evidence,” notes Catherine Spong, M.D., highlighting the challenges healthcare providers face when dealing with relatively new medications and their unexpected effects.
Health authorities also warn against purchasing these medications from unregulated sources or using them without professional guidance. Any adverse reactions or suspected counterfeit drugs should be reported immediately through official channels such as the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. As research continues, a clearer picture of how to safely manage these medications in relation to fertility and pregnancy planning will hopefully emerge.
