Weight-loss drugs have been making headlines due to their unexpected impact on fertility and pregnancy, leading to the trend of ‘Ozempic babies’ on social media. Medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes, have weight loss as a side effect. Additionally, there are versions of these drugs, namely Wegovy and Zepbound, approved for individuals with obesity.
Surprisingly, some women who have been taking these medications have reported unexpected pregnancies, despite facing fertility issues or even while being on birth control pills. For instance, Deb Oliviara, a 32-year-old mother of two from Michigan, started taking Ozempic with the goal of losing 20 pounds. However, she found herself pregnant despite previous fertility problems and inconsistent birth control usage.
During a segment that aired on March 27, 2024, Oliviara expressed her surprise and openness to the unplanned pregnancy, stating, “It’s very welcome. It may have been a shock and not at all in our plans, but we’re open to it.”
Dr. Tara Narula, a medical contributor to NBC News, shed light on the potential explanations for unexpected pregnancies in women taking weight-loss drugs. Firstly, she explained that obesity or polycystic ovary syndrome can reduce fertility. By inducing weight loss, these drugs potentially regulate the menstrual cycle, improve ovulation, and enhance fertility. Secondly, these medications can slow down stomach emptying, affecting the absorption of oral contraceptive pills. The weight-loss drugs’ common side effects, such as vomiting or diarrhea, can also contribute to changes in contraceptive pill absorption.
While these unexpected pregnancies may bring joy to some women who have struggled with fertility issues, it’s crucial for individuals taking weight-loss drugs to consider the potential impact on their fertility and planned pregnancies. Seeking medical advice and understanding the implications of these medications is essential for women who are considering or are in the process of a planned pregnancy.
