“Ozempic babies” is a trending topic on social media at the moment, with women talking about unexpected pregnancies following the use of the medication which is a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat diabetes and aid in weight loss.
One of those women is Movie actress Rebel Wilson. who in an interview with the Sunday Times, sppoke about her own use of the drug. Wilson’s initial consideration of Ozempic for fertility purposes underscores the multifaceted reasons why individuals may explore prescription weight-loss drugs. In her case, it was tied to her desire to optimize her chances for in vitro fertilization (IVF), highlighting the intersection of health and personal goals.
But what is this drug, and does it enhance fertility? we turned to Dr Karacan from IVF Turkey and asked him for some guidance:
Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable medication primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon secretion after meals. Additionally, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic have been found to slow down gastric emptying and promote satiety, which can lead to weight loss in some individuals.
While Ozempic (semaglutide) is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and aid in weight management, there is some discussion about its potential effects on fertility. Some individuals, like Rebel Wilson, may have considered using Ozempic as part of efforts to improve fertility, as weight loss can positively influence reproductive health outcomes.
Weight loss achieved through the use of medications like Ozempic can potentially improve fertility in individuals who are overweight or obese. Excess weight can negatively impact fertility by affecting hormone levels, menstrual regularity, and ovulation. By helping individuals achieve weight loss, medications like Ozempic may indirectly enhance fertility in some cases.
However, it’s important to note that the primary purpose of Ozempic is not to enhance fertility.
Any decision to use Ozempic or similar medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into consideration individual health needs, potential risks, and benefits. Additionally, if someone is considering using Ozempic specifically for fertility purposes, they should discuss alternative treatments and approaches with their healthcare provider to ensure the most appropriate course of action for their specific situation.