Posts about the “Ozempic children” attracted attention on social media
On social media, some women who have used semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy) or similar medications for diabetes or weight loss have reported an unusual side effect: an unexpected pregnancy.
A Facebook group called “I Got Pregnant with Ozempic” already has more than 580 members. On TikTok and Reddit (a popular platform in the United States), there are also frequent posts about unplanned pregnancies while taking these drugs.
Can Semaglutide facilitate pregnancy?
Reports of ‘ozempic children are anecdotal and no one yet knows how common this phenomenon is.
But, according to experts, significant weight loss can also affect fertility. As insulin resistance improves, hormonal balance is restored and some women who had impaired ovulation may begin to ovulate again.
But there are also those who speculate that drugs known as “GLP-1 analogs” could interfere with the absorption of oral contraceptives, causing birth control failures. This would happen because semaglutide slows down the emptying of the stomach.
Some women report becoming pregnant while taking Ozempic after previously suffering miscarriages or dealing with infertility issues due to polycystic ovaries. For women with this condition, missed periods are common, which can make it difficult to suspect pregnancy.
Nausea is a common side effect
Some commented that they felt nauseated, but since this is the main side effect of the drug, they did not suspect pregnancy. In reported cases, mothers stopped treatment after learning of the pregnancy and babies were born healthy.
The problem is that little is known about the effects of Ozempic and similar drugs on the fetus, as pregnant women were specifically excluded from the drug’s initial clinical trials.
Contacted by the website Novo Nordisk, which produces Ozempic and Wegovy, reiterates that women who were pregnant or intending to become pregnant were not part of the studies and that there is limited data on the subject.
The leaflet says the medicine should not be used during pregnancy and for at least six months before a planned pregnancy. Its use is also not recommended for those who are breastfeeding, as animal studies suggest that semaglutide may be excreted through breast milk.
“Novo Nordisk recommends carrying out any treatment only under medical supervision, always in accordance with the instructions of the responsible doctor and based on an individual assessment of the patient’s needs,” adds the company.
For all of these reasons, women of reproductive age who receive a prescription for semaglutide should discuss the risk of pregnancy with their doctor. And, if you become pregnant, it is essential to contact your doctor and stop treatment as soon as possible.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
