GLP-1 Medications and Fertility: What We Know

Medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® have become widely known for their effectiveness in weight management and metabolic health. These medications classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists are increasingly used by individuals who are also thinking about future fertility, egg freezing, or pregnancy.

As interest grows, so do questions:
Can GLP-1 medications affect fertility? Should you stop them before trying to conceive? Do they impact IVF outcomes?

Here’s what current medical evidence and fertility specialists know so far.

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are medications originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and later approved for chronic weight management. They work by:

Common examples include semaglutide and tirzepatide-based medications.

For individuals with obesity or insulin resistance, weight loss can improve ovulation, menstrual regularity, and overall reproductive health. In these cases, GLP-1 medications may indirectly support fertility by improving metabolic function.

This is especially relevant for patients with conditions like:

Some patients experience more regular cycles as weight and insulin resistance improve. However, GLP-1 medications themselves do not stimulate ovulation and are not fertility treatments.

Importantly, rapid weight loss or nutritional deficiencies can temporarily disrupt cycles in some individuals highlighting the importance of medical supervision.

GLP-1 medications are not recommended during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown potential risks to fetal development, and there is currently limited human data.

Most medical guidelines recommend discontinuing GLP-1 medications at least 2 months before attempting conception, allowing the medication to fully clear the body.

If pregnancy occurs while taking a GLP-1 medication, patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

For patients pursuing fertility treatment, timing and coordination are key.

Each treatment plan should be individualized based on medical history, goals, and fertility timeline.

If you’re using or considering GLP-1 medications and thinking about fertility, egg freezing, or IVF, early conversations matter. At Reproductive Partners Fertility Center – San Diego, our physicians take a personalized, evidence-based approach to help patients navigate weight management, fertility goals, and treatment timing safely and effectively.