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Ozempic (semaglutide) is widely used for type 2 diabetes management and is frequently prescribed off label for weight loss. As use increases, more people are asking whether Ozempic is safe during pregnancy and whether it affects fertility. Reports of unexpected pregnancies sometimes called Ozempic babies have added to the confusion.
At this time, Ozempic is not considered safe to use during pregnancy. There are no controlled studies in pregnant humans and animal research shows potential fetal risk. Because of this uncertainty, healthcare providers recommend avoiding semaglutide during pregnancy and stopping it well before attempting to conceive.
How Ozempic Works
Ozempic belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications work by:
• Increasing insulin when blood sugar is high
• Reducing glucagon release from the liver
• Slowing the rate of stomach emptying
• Reducing appetite by acting on hunger centers in the brain
These effects improve blood sugar control and often lead to significant weight loss. Some people experience more regular menstrual cycles and improved fertility because insulin resistance decreases especially those with PCOS.
However, the metabolic benefits of Ozempic do not mean it is safe to take during pregnancy.
Is Ozempic Safe During Pregnancy?
The safety of Ozempic during pregnancy is unknown. There is no confirmed research showing it is safe for pregnant humans. Existing evidence is too limited and animal studies raise concerns.
Key issues include:
• No adequate human studies in pregnant women
• Animal studies showing birth defects and pregnancy loss
• A long medication half life meaning it remains in the body for weeks
Because of these factors, clinicians advise:
• Avoiding Ozempic during pregnancy
• Using contraception while taking the medication
• Stopping semaglutide well before trying to conceive
What Risks Have Been Seen in Animal Studies?
In rats and rabbits, semaglutide exposure during pregnancy was linked to:
• Developmental abnormalities
• Pregnancy loss
• Growth restriction
These findings occurred at doses similar to those used in humans. Researchers cannot yet determine whether these effects occur in humans, but the results are concerning enough for experts to take a cautious approach.
Human safety data will not be available for several more years.
When Should You Stop Ozempic Before Trying to Conceive?
You should stop taking Ozempic at least two months before trying to become pregnant.
Reasons for the two month period:
• Semaglutide stays in the body for up to six weeks
• This window allows time for the medication to clear
• Your provider may need to transition you to alternatives such as insulin or metformin
If you use Ozempic for diabetes, blood sugar must be managed with safer medications during pregnancy.
What Should You Do If You Become Pregnant While Taking Ozempic?
If you find out that you are pregnant while taking Ozempic:
- Stop taking the medication unless your provider advises otherwise.
- Contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Transition to a treatment that is safe during pregnancy.
Do not panic. Early exposure does not guarantee harm.
Limited human data shows:
• No increased rate of major birth defects in individuals exposed to semaglutide early in pregnancy
• A small study showing similar pregnancy outcomes between semaglutide users and insulin users
These early findings are somewhat reassuring but the sample sizes are extremely small. More research is needed to understand true risk.
A pregnancy registry for Wegovy users is currently collecting data. Results are not expected until after 2027.
Can You Breastfeed While Taking Ozempic?
There is very limited human research on breastfeeding safety.
What is known:
- Animal studies show semaglutide passes into breast milk
- A small human study with only eight participants did not find semaglutide in breast milk samples
Because the research is not strong enough to determine safety, most experts advise avoiding Ozempic while breastfeeding.
Does Ozempic Interfere With Birth Control?
It may interfere with absorption of oral birth control pills because Ozempic slows stomach emptying. Evidence is not yet conclusive but caution is advised.
Non oral birth control options are preferred:
• IUDs
• Implants
• Hormonal patches
• Vaginal rings
You may also choose to use a backup method if taking oral birth control.
Can Ozempic Increase Fertility?
Yes in some cases indirectly. People with PCOS or insulin resistance may experience:
• More regular ovulation
• Lower androgens
• More predictable menstrual cycles
This may lead to both planned and unplanned pregnancies. Because of this, a reliable birth control method is recommended while taking GLP-1 medications if you do not wish to conceive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ozempic cause birth defects?
We do not know. Human studies are insufficient and animal studies show possible risk.
Is it safe to take Ozempic during early pregnancy?
There is no confirmed safety data. Stop the medication and contact your provider.
Can Ozempic be used for gestational diabetes?
No. It is not approved or recommended during pregnancy.
What medications are safest for diabetes in pregnancy?
Insulin is the standard treatment. Metformin is also used in some cases.
The Bottom Line
Ozempic is not considered safe during pregnancy. Human research is extremely limited and animal studies show potential fetal risks. Anyone planning pregnancy should stop semaglutide at least two months beforehand and transition to safer alternatives. If you become pregnant unexpectedly while taking Ozempic, stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider promptly. Early exposure does not automatically result in harm and many individuals go on to have healthy pregnancies.
