You’ve probably heard the stories of women who struggled with fertility only to find themselves pregnant after starting Ozempic. This has sparked a lot of speculation about a potential link between Ozempic and fertility. However, due to the limited research available, there’s still much we don’t know about how Ozempic might affect fertility.

‍

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication mainly prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes and weight loss. We are hearing from more and more individuals who are considering fertility treatments or planning to become pregnant and have concerns about Ozempic and similar medications and their potential effects on fertility and pregnancy.

‍

“We do know that excess body fat plays a significant role in hormone production,” says Collab founder and medical director Dr. Thalia Segal. “Fat cells produce estrogen, which can disrupt the communication between the brain and ovaries, often leading to irregular ovulation and infertility. When women begin taking Ozempic and lose weight, this excess estrogen decreases, helping to restore the brain/body connection and, thus, regular ovulation occurs. Additionally, many women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) experience infertility. By losing weight, with the help of Ozempic, these women may see improvements in their metabolic health, which can lead to more regular ovulation and an increased chance of pregnancy.”

‍

What happens if you get pregnant while on Ozempic?

At our East Bay Fertility clinic, we follow the current FDA recommendation and advise women to stop taking Ozempic at least two months before trying to conceive or starting fertility treatments, such as IUI or IVF.

‍

If you happen to become pregnant while on Ozempic or any other GLP-1 medication, don't panic. However, scheduling appointments with your doctor immediately for further guidance and care is important. Your doctor can help you safely discontinue the medication and recommend alternative methods for managing blood sugar and weight during pregnancy.

‍

More research involving larger human populations is necessary to fully understand the risks these medications may pose during pregnancy.

‍

Can you freeze your eggs on Ozempic?

For those pursuing egg freezing, we recommend discontinuing Ozempic two weeks prior to the egg retrieval process due to safety concerns related to anesthesia. Ozempic can increase risks during anesthesia, so it's important to follow this guideline.

‍

Can Ozempic cause fertility issues in women?

While the connection between Ozempic and fertility remains unclear due to limited research, it’s important to approach fertility planning and treatment with careful consideration, especially when using semaglutide medications. At Collab Fertility, we understand that navigating these concerns can be overwhelming. That’s why our team of fertility experts is here to guide you every step of the way.

‍

Our clinic is proud to have some of the Bay Area’s top fertility doctors, nurses, and embryologists—each highly skilled and experienced in addressing a wide range of fertility challenges. But beyond our expertise, what truly sets us apart is our compassionate, patient-centered approach. We take the time to understand your unique needs and work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether you're considering IUI, IVF, or other fertility treatments, we collaborate with your healthcare providers to ensure the best possible care.

‍

At Collab Fertility, we’re dedicated to being more than just your medical team—we’re your trusted partners every step of the way. If you have questions about how Ozempic or other medications may impact your fertility, or if you're ready to explore your fertility treatment options, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you on your fertility journey.

‍

________________________

Proudly Supporting Local Communities
Collab Fertility is honored to serve families in Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, Danville, Alamo, Piedmont, and Walnut Creek, as well as many other communities in the Bay Area and beyond, including Oakland, San Ramon, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Santa Rosa, Novato, Napa, Sonoma, and more.

‍