With growing awareness of how weight can affect fertility, many people are asking: Can weight loss drugs help with conception?
With increasing awareness of how body weight can influence fertility, many patients are asking: Can weight loss medications support my journey to parenthood?
Medications like Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) have gained popularity, not only for managing Type 2 diabetes but also for their effectiveness in weight loss. At Flinders Fertility, we understand the unique challenges faced by individuals struggling with weight-related fertility issues. That’s why we now offer a Metabolic Weight Optimisation Program designed specifically to support reproductive health.
Here’s what you need to know about weight loss medications, fertility, and how our program can help.
The Connection Between Weight and Fertility
Weight is a key factor in reproductive health. Being either overweight or underweight can disrupt hormonal balance, impair ovulation, and reduce the chances of conception. This is especially true in conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), where insulin resistance and weight gain are common and often difficult to manage.
Even a modest weight loss—just 5–10% of total body weight—can restore ovulatory cycles and improve the likelihood of natural conception. The method of weight loss, however, matters. Sustainable lifestyle changes, medical support, and, in some cases, weight loss medications can all play a role in a successful fertility journey.
What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?
Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro belong to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications help regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and promote satiety, making them powerful tools for weight management.
While Ozempic is currently approved in Australia for diabetes (not for weight loss), Wegovy has received TGA approval for weight management on private prescription.
Can These Medications Improve Fertility?
Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 medications may indirectly enhance fertility by improving:
- Ovulation frequency, particularly in individuals with PCOS
- Hormonal balance through reduced insulin resistance
- Egg quality and reduced systemic inflammation
Our Metabolic Weight Optimisation Program
At Flinders Fertility, we now offer a comprehensive Metabolic Weight Optimisation Program tailored to individuals trying to conceive. This program combines:
- Personalised support from endocrinologist Assoc Prof Vasant Shenoy and fertility specialist Dr Toby Angstmann
- Medically supervised use of GLP-1 medications (where appropriate)
- Advice on diet and lifestyle
- Ongoing monitoring to support sustainable, safe weight loss
Our goal is not just to help you lose weight, but to do so in a way that optimally supports your fertility.
Even modest weight loss can significantly improve reproductive outcomes. For example:
- Regular ovulation may resume in women with weight-related anovulation
- Spontaneous pregnancy rates may rise
- Risks of miscarriage and pregnancy complications may be reduced
Should You Consider Weight Loss Medications for Fertility?
If you’re navigating weight-related fertility challenges, you’re not alone, and there are options. Our fertility team can help you:
- Assess whether GLP-1 medications are appropriate for you
- Set realistic, personalised weight and fertility goals
- Transition off medications safely before conception (typically, GLP-1 meds should be stopped at least 6 weeks before trying to conceive)
