GLP-1 and GIP Medications: The Weight Loss Baby Boom and Fertility Connection

Over the last few years, weight loss injections like semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have changed how we approach weight management, diabetes, and metabolic health. But one unexpected outcome has caught everyone’s attention — an apparent “baby boom” among people using these medications.

So what’s really going on, and why does fertility seem to improve on these drugs? More importantly, what happens if you get pregnant while taking them?

Why fertility can improve on GLP-1 and GIP medications

GLP-1 and GIP are natural gut hormones that play key roles in appetite control, glucose regulation, and fat metabolism. These medicines mimic those hormones, leading to reduced hunger, slower digestion, lower blood sugar spikes, and sustained weight loss.

But as body composition improves, so does hormone balance — and that’s where fertility comes into play.

In women

• Weight loss can restore ovulation, particularly in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where excess weight and insulin resistance disrupt normal cycles.

• Lower insulin and androgen levels lead to more regular menstrual cycles and improved egg quality.

• Reduced inflammation and better blood flow to reproductive organs can make conception more likely.

In men

• Losing abdominal fat improves testosterone production, sperm count, and motility.

• Reduced insulin resistance and inflammation enhance overall reproductive health.

• Weight loss also improves sleep and libido — both key in fertility.

The result? People who previously thought pregnancy was unlikely are suddenly conceiving — often by surprise.

Why this can be risky: GLP-1 and GIP drugs are not safe in pregnancy

These medications are strictly contraindicated in pregnancy because animal and limited human data show potential risks to foetal development.

Here’s what we know so far

• Studies on animals given semaglutide or tirzepatide have shown increased rates of miscarriage, stillbirth, and foetal malformations (particularly involving the skeleton and organs).

• These effects are believed to come from restricted nutrient transfer to the foetus and altered glucose metabolism.

• The drugs delay gastric emptying, which can interfere with nutrient absorption in the mother.

• Rapid maternal weight loss and reduced appetite during pregnancy can lead to poor foetal growth or low birth weight.

Because these risks can’t be fully studied in humans, regulatory bodies such as the MHRA, EMA, and FDA all recommend avoiding GLP-1 and GIP medications during pregnancy and stopping them at least two months before trying to conceive.

Why contraception is essential during treatment

Because fertility often improves as weight and hormone balance stabilise, reliable contraception becomes vital.

Even if you’ve struggled to conceive before, that may change quickly once you start losing weight and your hormones normalise.

Recommended contraception

• Long-acting methods such as implants, IUS, or contraceptive injections are the most dependable.

• If using oral contraception, remember that GLP-1 medications can delay absorption of pills. This is most relevant:

  • When starting or increasing the dose

  • If you experience vomiting or diarrhoea

• In these cases, a barrier method (condoms) should be used for at least four weeks after any dose change.

If you’re planning pregnancy, discuss a plan to discontinue treatment safely with your clinician.

What to do if you become pregnant while taking these medications

1. Stop the medication immediately.
   Do not take another dose once pregnancy is confirmed or suspected.

2. Contact your prescriber or GP.
   They will discuss the safest next steps and arrange a review.

3. Do not panic.
   The risk is theoretical — not all pregnancies exposed to these medications have complications — but close monitoring is advised.

4. Do not restart the medication after pregnancy or during breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a qualified prescriber.

Common Questions Answered

1. Why am I more fertile on GLP-1 or GIP medication?

Weight loss and better blood sugar control help restore natural hormonal balance, making ovulation and sperm production more regular. Essentially, your body becomes healthier and more receptive to conception.

2. Can I take GLP-1 medications if I’m trying for a baby?

No. These medicines should be stopped at least two months before conception. They remain in your body for several weeks, so a washout period is needed before pregnancy.

3. What if I’m breastfeeding?

They should also be avoided during breastfeeding. There isn’t enough data to confirm safety, and the medication could pass into breast milk and affect the baby’s growth or blood sugar.

4. What happens if I didn’t know I was pregnant and continued treatment?

Don’t blame yourself — this happens more often than people realise. Stop the injections and let your healthcare provider know. They’ll arrange additional monitoring and guide you on what to expect.

5. Does this apply to both Wegovy and Mounjaro?

Yes. The same rules apply to all GLP-1 and GIP-based therapies, including semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound).

6. Can these drugs help if I have PCOS but want to conceive later?

Yes — in fact, they can help restore ovulation and improve long-term fertility potential. But you’ll need contraception during treatment, and to stop the medication well before trying to conceive.

Balancing the benefits and the risks

Used correctly, these medicines have enormous health benefits beyond weight loss:

• Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes

• Improved cardiovascular outcomes

• Lower inflammation

• Restored metabolic and reproductive health

But without proper supervision and contraception, they can also lead to unplanned and potentially risky pregnancies.

At Bramley Pharmacy, our prescribing clinicians take the time to discuss your fertility goals, contraceptive choices, and long-term health plans before starting treatment. Every patient receives tailored medical advice, follow-up, and monitoring to ensure the treatment remains both safe and effective.

Key takeaway

• GLP-1 and GIP medications can restore fertility, even when you thought it wasn’t possible.

• They are not safe during pregnancy — stop immediately if you conceive.

• Always use reliable contraception during treatment.

• Speak to your pharmacist or prescriber before stopping or starting any medication.