A new kind of baby boom could be taking place, as some women taking GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have reported unexpected pregnancies. The term “Ozempic babies” has been coined on TikTok, with many women sharing their experiences online.
One Michigan mom, Deb Oliviara, shared her surprise “Ozempic pregnancy” with her boyfriend on social media. She described the pregnancy as unexpected, especially since she had experienced fertility issues in the past.
Dr. Angela Fitch, a medical expert, confirmed the correlation between weight loss and fertility, suggesting that it could be the main driver behind the sudden increase in “Ozempic babies.” However, she emphasized the importance of using contraception while taking these drugs, as their effects on fertility have not been extensively studied.
Fertility expert Dr. Rachel McConnell also highlighted the importance of caution when taking GLP-1 drugs, as their impact on babies is unknown. She recommended using backup contraceptives while on these medications to prevent any potential risks.
While the possibility of no negative effects could be beneficial for conditions like gestational diabetes, experts warn of the unknown effects of these drugs on babies. Patients are advised to have a plan for maintaining a healthy lifestyle once they stop taking GLP-1 medications.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, has created a Wegovy Pregnancy Registry to collect health data from women who take these medications during pregnancy. The registry aims to better understand the safety of these weight-loss drugs during pregnancy.
Overall, while the correlation between weight loss and fertility is intriguing, experts urge caution and emphasize the importance of using contraception while taking GLP-1 drugs. The impact of these medications on babies is still unknown, and patients are advised to prioritize their health and well-being.
