You’ve probably seen an ad on TV for Ozempic, but have you heard about Ozempic babies?
Ozempic is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone naturally found in the body that reduces blood sugar (glucose), but it normally breaks down quickly. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the effects of GLP-1 while breaking down more slowly, helping to control blood sugar.
These medications were first used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but certain GLP-1 receptor agonists may also be used as weight-loss drugs to treat obesity.
What are Ozempic babies, though? There’s a connection! Weight loss can have a major impact on fertility. Keep reading to learn more.
Impact of Ozempic on Fertility
Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists help regulate appetite and insulin in the body, which often leads to significant weight loss. Clinical trials found that those using Ozempic lost an average of 13 to 15 pounds within 10 months.
How does weight affect fertility? Carrying extra weight can make it more challenging to conceive, both naturally and through fertility treatment. That’s because fat cells in the body produce estrogen, just like the ovaries do, which can cause the body to react as if you’re already pregnant.
Excess weight can also contribute to (or be caused by) medical conditions that interfere with fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility.
Studies have found that losing weight can improve the likelihood of conceiving for women who were overweight or obese. This includes losing weight through the use of Ozempic and similar medications.
Understanding “Ozempic Babies”
While it’s a proven fact that losing weight can improve fertility in many cases, so-called “Ozempic babies” represent surprise pregnancies for people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. Many women have found themselves pregnant within a few months of starting the drugs, as they begin to shed excess weight.
This can occur for several reasons. As a woman loses weight, there are fewer fat cells producing estrogen. This can cause the body to recognize that it isn’t already pregnant—and prepare itself to become pregnant. For women who have not had irregular menstrual periods due to PCOS or other factors, weight loss can stimulate ovulation even before regular periods return.
In addition, GLP-1 receptor agonists work in part by slowing the rate at which food moves through the body. While this can promote weight loss, it can also interfere with how medications are absorbed by the body, including birth control pills.
Navigating Pregnancy on Ozempic
If you’re taking Ozempic or another GLP-1 receptor agonist and become pregnant, it’s important to get in touch with your OB/GYN or another medical provider. The makers of Ozempic recommend discontinuing the medication at least two months prior to becoming pregnant, so if you become pregnant while using the medication, your provider will likely recommend you stop taking it.
These medications were not studied in pregnant women during clinical trials, so their effects on an unborn baby are unknown. While initial research about the effects on babies from surprise pregnancies hasn’t found major impacts, researchers believe it’s best to discontinue the medication during pregnancy since it can disrupt digestion and the absorption of nutrients.
Your provider can recommend a strategy for safely navigating pregnancy and losing weight after pregnancy. This may include resuming Ozempic after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Broader Implications of Ozempic Use
Ozempic and similar medications can have a very positive effect on overall health. Those taking these medications often experience improved blood sugar, including an A1C level in a healthier range, as well as protected heart health.
With that said, though, GLP-1 receptor agonists disrupt the body’s normal digestion and absorption of nutrients. This can lead to a number of uncomfortable effects, including:
- Digestive issues
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Nutritional deficiencies
Those who experience significant weight loss may also have changes in their facial appearance, such as so-called “Ozempic face,” which is a bony appearance.
It’s important to take GLP-1 receptor agonists only at the recommendation of a medical provider. While taking the medication, you should have regular checkups with your provider that include routine lab tests and examinations to monitor your health.
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