Semaglutide And Pregnancy: Can You Take Semaglutide While Pregnant?

Semaglutide is a medication used for weight management and diabetes care. For women who are pregnant or planning to conceive, understanding the potential risks of using semaglutide is crucial. Many people want to know if semaglutide shots are safe during pregnancy, how they affect the ability to have kids, and if it's okay to use Ozempic^® while pregnant. Semaglutide comes in pill form, as a sublingual suspension, and as an injection. Each form has its pros and cons for semaglutide weight loss, and there are several factors to consider when deciding.

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This article examines how semaglutide and pregnancy relate to each other. It sheds light on key aspects like how semaglutide affects fertility, its use in early pregnancy, and how it might influence pregnancy outcomes. We'll also look at what semaglutide weight loss means for people trying to get pregnant and check the safety of semaglutide during pregnancy.

Key Takeaways

• Semaglutide is a medication used to control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes and for weight management in obesity treatment ^[1].

• The FDA advises against taking semaglutide during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus ^[2].

• Animal studies have indicated that semaglutide may pose risks during pregnancy, including the potential for birth defects, miscarriage, and low birth weight. However, these findings have not been conclusively observed in humans, underscoring the need for caution and consultation with a healthcare provider.

• It's recommended to stop taking semaglutide at least 2 months before planning a pregnancy due to its long clearance time from the body ^{[1] [2]}.

• There's limited data on semaglutide's effects during human pregnancy, with only one reported case of a child born without birth defects after early pregnancy exposure ^[1].

• The safety of semaglutide during breastfeeding is unknown, as no human studies have been conducted ^[1].

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Semaglutide’s Impact On Fertility

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist found in drugs like Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®. Though companies don't sell it as a fertility medicine, its ability to help manage weight and boost insulin sensitivity could create better conditions for getting pregnant [3].

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For women with obesity or insulin resistance, weight loss achieved through semaglutide treatment may improve overall metabolic health, which could indirectly support fertility. Semaglutide is not specifically approved for fertility enhancement, and its use for this purpose should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

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Doctors have found a connection between being overweight and having trouble getting pregnant. Women carrying extra weight often face hormone problems that cause irregular periods and less frequent egg release. Losing just a bit of weight can get hormone levels back to normal, which might make it easier to conceive [4]. 

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For women going through IVF, losing weight with semaglutide can make egg retrieval easier. Too much body fat makes it difficult to see and reach the ovaries during this step [4].

Doctors don't suggest using semaglutide when pregnant. Women who get pregnant while taking these drugs should stop. We don't know enough about how safe these drugs are during pregnancy [3].

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Though semaglutide isn't a cure-all for fertility problems, it might help as an extra treatment for patients who are overweight or have insulin resistance [4]. Like with all medicines, you should talk to your doctor about the good and bad points, especially if you want to get pregnant.

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Semaglutide And Pregnancy: Is It Safe To Take While Pregnant?

Semaglutide, a drug for type 2 diabetes and obesity treatment, has brought up concerns about its safety for pregnant women. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against using semaglutide during pregnancy because it might harm the baby [2].

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Animal studies suggest that semaglutide may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as birth defects, miscarriage, and low birth weight. These findings have led to recommendations against the use of semaglutide during pregnancy. These discoveries have led doctors to advise stopping semaglutide before getting pregnant. The FDA recommends quitting the drug at least two months before trying to conceive [2]. This long wait is needed because semaglutide can stay in the body of healthy adults for up to six weeks [1].

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Researchers haven't conducted many studies on how semaglutide affects pregnant women. Doctors have seen one case where someone kept taking semaglutide for the first 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. The baby was born without any reported birth defects [1]. But this one case doesn't prove that semaglutide is safe to use during pregnancy.

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It's essential to understand semaglutide dosages and guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may experience while using semaglutide. Compounded semaglutide can be used when tailored dosing or specific formulations are needed that aren’t available in standard prescriptions, offering more flexibility for individual patient needs. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the compounded version is safe, effective, and sourced from a reputable source like Eden.

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Doctors don't suggest semaglutide for pregnant women, but they need to balance treating underlying health issues against possible drug risks. Doctors can help choose the best ways to handle diabetes or obesity during pregnancy [2].

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Semaglutide And Breastfeeding

Semaglutide use while breastfeeding concerns doctors and nursing mothers. Currently, there is limited information on how semaglutide affects human breast milk. Due to the lack of clinical studies, the safety of semaglutide use while breastfeeding remains unclear, and its use should be carefully considered with guidance from a healthcare provider.

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Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, has a molecular weight of 4113 daltons and bonds to proteins over 99% of the time [5]. These features point to a very small amount of semaglutide that could show up in breast milk. Because semaglutide is a protein, the baby's digestive system could break it down, potentially making it even less likely to be absorbed [5].

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Research on animals reveals that semaglutide shows up in the milk of rats that are nursing. The levels in milk are about 1.5 times higher than in the mother's blood. The highest amounts appear 8 hours after giving the dose [6]. Although, what happens in animals doesn't always match what happens in humans.

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The National Institute of Child Health and Development advises caution when using semaglutide while breastfeeding when nursing newborns or preterm infants [5]. This advice comes from the absence of clinical evidence about its use during lactation.

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Breastfed infants may face potential risks, such as low blood sugar, stomach and intestinal problems, and possible impact on breast milk production.

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Moms who take semaglutide while nursing need to keep an eye on their babies for signs like eating less, bloated stomachs, and different stool patterns [5]. Staying in touch with doctors and baby specialists is key to making sure both mom and baby stay healthy.

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Other choices for dealing with diabetes or obesity while breastfeeding include drugs like metformin and insulin, which people think are safer [6]. Doctors also suggest lifestyle changes, such as eating well and doing more exercise, to help manage weight after having a baby [6].

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Because we don't have studies on humans and there might be risks involved, you need to think hard about using semaglutide when you're breastfeeding. You should weigh the good things against the possible bad things. Your doctor can give you advice that fits your own situation and health needs.

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5 Key Things To Keep In Mind Before Taking Semaglutide

#1: Pregnancy and Family Planning

Doctors advise against using semaglutide during pregnancy because it might harm the baby. Tests on animals have revealed higher chances of miscarriages and birth defects [7]. You need to stop taking semaglutide at least 2 months before you try to get pregnant. This is because the drug can stay in your body for up to 6 weeks [7] [1].

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#2: Regular Medical Check-ups

Getting regular check-ups at the doctor's is crucial when you're on semaglutide. Your doctor needs to keep an eye on how you're doing and might ask for blood and urine tests to check for any problems [8]. These visits help make sure the medicine is doing its job and allow for the doctor to make changes if needed.

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#3: Possible Side Effects

Watch out for side effects that might occur while using semaglutide. These could include:

1. Thyroid tumors: Look out for neck lumps or swelling, trouble swallowing or breathing, or a raspy voice [8].

2. Pancreatitis: Pay attention to abrupt and intense stomach pain, shivers, feeling sick, throwing up, or high temperature [8].

3. Gallbladder problems: Watch for signs such as gassy stomach aches, upset stomach, or your eyes or skin turning yellow [8].

4. Diabetic retinopathy: Tell your doctor about any changes you notice in your eyesight [8].

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#4: Blood Sugar Management

Semaglutide doesn't trigger hypoglycemia on its own, but it can occur when you take it with other diabetes drugs. You should get ready to spot and handle signs of low blood sugar, like feeling anxious, confused, or shaky [8]. It's a good idea to have glucose tablets or other fast-acting carbs within reach.

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#5: Lifestyle Considerations

Semaglutide treatment might require you to change your lifestyle. Watch out when you drink alcohol, as it can mess with your blood sugar [8]. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, even the ones you buy without a prescription, and any supplements. If you have diabetes, figure out how to adjust your medicine doses when you change what you eat or how much you exercise [8]. 

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What Is The Best Form Of Semaglutide?

Semaglutide has an influence on weight management and diabetes control. You can choose from several options, but the best one for you depends on what you need and like.

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In 2023, people in the UK saw Wegovy^® (semaglutide 2.4 mg) as the top weight-loss shot. It helped people lose up to 20% of their weight in a year [9]. But now, in 2024, Mounjaro^® looks like it might be preferred. Studies show it can lead to weight loss of up to 25% after a year [9].

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You need a medical consultation with a healthcare provider to get a prescription for compounded semaglutide, for both the injectable form and oral forms. Your doctor will decide if semaglutide is right for you and which type: either the injectable form of semaglutide (Wegovy^®, Ozempic^®) or one of the oral forms of semaglutide (Rybelsus^®, SubMagna™).

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Semaglutide comes in pill form, as a sublingual suspension, and as an injection. Each type has its pros and cons, and there are several factors to consider when deciding between semaglutide tablets vs injections. To ensure you get the most out of semaglutide, it’s essential to pair the medication with a balanced diet and regular exercise. 

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While there isn’t a "natural semaglutide" available, some people seek natural alternatives that support weight management and blood sugar control, such as dietary changes and increased physical activity. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before pursuing these options to ensure they complement your overall treatment plan. Sticking to semaglutide safety guidelines will help you cut down on possible side effects and get the best results as you work to manage your weight.

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Several semaglutide success stories show how this drug can help people lose weight and boost their overall health when paired with a healthy diet and exercise. Semaglutide tackles many parts of metabolism and hunger control, offering a full approach to managing weight and boosting metabolic health, leaving patients satisfied with the results of using semaglutide.

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Try Semaglutide With Eden

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People looking to customize their semaglutide treatment can check out TryEden.com. Here, users have different choices to fit their specific needs. You can get injectable semaglutide, which lets you adjust the dose as needed. Experienced doctors and pharmacies are readily available  [11]. On top of that, TryEden.com offers oral semaglutide if you'd rather not use injections [11].

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Eden offers semaglutide treatments that include health coaching support. This helps people manage their weight in a complete and affordable way [11]. Eden also has an oral semaglutide suspension that you take with an oral syringe. This gives people who don't want to use injections another option to get the benefits of semaglutide [11].

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Eden’s semaglutide treatments have received positive feedback from customers. One user wrote, "I've lost 45lbs so far and couldn't be happier!" [12] Another commented, "I've lost 15 pounds in two months" [12]. Customers have also praised Eden for its service and support. One customer said, "This is one outstanding company and I plan on telling everyone I know that needs help losing weight to go through Eden" [12].

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Semaglutide And Pregnancy: Final Thoughts

While semaglutide is effective for weight management and diabetes control, its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding requires careful consideration due to potential risks. Women planning to conceive or who are pregnant should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the safest course of action. The possible risks to baby growth and the lack of full human studies stress the need to be careful. People thinking about or using semaglutide must talk openly with their doctors when they plan to have a family or during pregnancy.

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Choosing to use semaglutide requires balancing its advantages and potential drawbacks. It helps people lose weight and manage blood sugar, but we don't know if it's safe during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. 

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FAQ

Does semaglutide affect birth control?

There is currently no direct evidence to suggest that semaglutide affects the effectiveness of birth control. However, because semaglutide may slow gastric emptying, it is theoretically possible that it could alter the absorption of oral contraceptives. Women using birth control pills should discuss this potential interaction with their healthcare provider to ensure adequate contraceptive protection.

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Can semaglutide throw off your period?

Semaglutide's effects on weight loss can influence hormone levels, which may, in turn, affect the menstrual cycle. Some women have reported changes in their periods, such as irregular cycles or changes in flow. If you experience significant changes in your menstrual cycle while taking semaglutide, consult your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

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References

1. Mother To Baby. Semaglutide. PubMed. Published March 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK600385/

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2. Wisner W. Why Doctors Say It’s Not Safe to Take Semaglutide During Pregnancy. Healthline. Published August 25, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/semaglutide-pregnancy

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3. Ozturk F. Ozempic and Increase in Pregnancy: What’s the Fertility Connection? Fertility Institute of San Diego. Published April 2, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://fertilityinstitutesandiego.com/ozempic-and-increase-in-pregnancy-whats-the-fertility-connection/

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4. Pawlowski A. “Ozempic babies”: Why women on weight-loss drugs can get pregnant despite birth control. TODAY.com. Published March 27, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.today.com/health/womens-health/ozempic-pregnancy-fertility-rcna81104

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5. Jones W. Semaglutide and Breastfeeding – Breastfeeding and Medication. Breastfeeding-and-medication.co.uk. Published July 16, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://breastfeeding-and-medication.co.uk/fact-sheet/semaglutide-and-breastfeeding

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6. Dr. V Medical Aesthetics. Semaglutide While Breastfeeding. Dr. V Medical Aesthetics. Published September 25, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.drvaesthetics.com/semaglutide-while-breastfeeding/

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7. Pinto-Garcia P. Does Taking Ozempic Affect Pregnancy? Yes, It Can. GoodRx Health. Published June 2, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/ozempic-and-pregnancy

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8. Merative, Micromedex. Semaglutide (Subcutaneous Route) Precautions - Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. Published April 1, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/precautions/drg-20406730

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9. Puddick R. Best weight loss injections in 2023 | Weight loss medications. Secondnature.io. Published December 22, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.secondnature.io/us/blog/best-weight-loss-injections-2023?srsltid=AfmBOooV2yyLbed7tLGW7_oM0dd_TwraEC6Gz_1i7Z92lt4wcNIik0tA

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10. Munoz-Mantilla D. Top Weight Loss Medications. Obesity Medicine Association. Published January 26, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://obesitymedicine.org/blog/weight-loss-medications/

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11. Eden. Oral vs Injectable. Tryeden.com. Published 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.tryeden.com/lp/oral-semaglutide-versus-injectable-semaglutide?srsltid=AfmBOoqQ7aAwfvaCeAbbsb-p-CiUzudRosYFDrbfHNefhpJAMGCnkDbV

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12. Eden. Reviews | Authentic reviews from Eden members. Tryeden.com. Published 2021. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.tryeden.com/reviews?srsltid=AfmBOorGp_6vy0vKDE_DFBu8eFzwP7hfG_XPoVNm8djVNn0NvkDOH4R2

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13. Kassel G. Ozempic and Birth Control: Interaction, Efficacy, Considerations. Healthline. Published September 1, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health/ozempic-and-birth-control

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14. Taylor A. Does Ozempic affect birth control? Plannedparenthood.org. Published June 7, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/does-ozempic-affect-birth-control

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15. Scherer L. Taking a New Obesity Drug and Birth Control Pills? Be Careful. WebMD. Published October 18, 2023. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.webmd.com/obesity/news/20231018/new-obesity-drugs-may-interfere-with-birth-control

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16. Genesis Lifestyle Medicine. HOW DOES SEMAGLUTIDE AFFECT YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE? genesislifestylemedicine.com. Published August 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.genesislifestylemedicine.com/blog/how-does-semaglutide-affect-your-menstrual-cycle/

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17. Hassan A. Does Semaglutide Affect Period? Speculations vs Reality. Linkedin.com. Published February 6, 2024. Accessed August 19, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/does-semaglutide-affect-period-speculations-vs-reality-ali-hassan-ijn2f

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog. 

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