Recent research conducted by Flinders University in Australia highlights potential risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications prominently used for weight management, including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic). The study specifically focuses on the implications for women of reproductive age, revealing a concerning trend in contraception use among this demographic.
Initially designed for managing type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists have gained popularity as weight-loss solutions. However, data from Australia indicates that a significant portion of women prescribed these medications are not employing effective contraceptive methods, raising alarms about the potential risks for pregnancy and fetal health.
“We’re witnessing a notable rise in the prescription of these medications to women of childbearing age, yet there is minimal evidence suggesting that contraception considerations are part of standard care,” stated Luke Grzeskowiak, a pharmacist and lead author of the study. “These medications can be beneficial, but they do come with associated risks, particularly during pregnancy.”
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In 2022, over 6,000 Australian women initiated treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists, with more than 90% of these women lacking a diabetes diagnosis. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million women aged 18 to 49 who consulted general practices from 2011 to 2022. Among the 18,010 women who started GLP-1 treatment, only 21% reported using contraception.
Furthermore, the study unveiled that 2.2% of these women became pregnant within six months of beginning GLP-1 therapy, particularly among younger women with diabetes and those in their early thirties without diabetes. Notably, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) exhibited double the likelihood of conception, suggesting that weight loss from these medications may inadvertently enhance fertility.
Data indicates that contraceptive use effectively mitigates the risk of unintended pregnancies: those utilizing birth control at the time of prescription faced significantly lower pregnancy risks. Alarmingly, animal studies have indicated that GLP-1 exposure during gestation may lead to adverse outcomes, such as impaired fetal growth and skeletal anomalies. Although comprehensive human data remains limited, experts urge caution.
“While guidelines in the UK recommend that women taking GLP-1 receptor agonists avoid pregnancy and employ reliable contraception, such advice is not consistently adhered to within Australian practice,” noted Grzeskowiak. “It is critical that reproductive health discussions become a standard part of the consultation when these medications are prescribed to women of childbearing age.”
Grzeskowiak emphasized the necessity for clear practice guidelines for healthcare providers. “We advise individuals to consult with their general practitioners regarding the risks and benefits associated with GLP-1 medications and to ensure that prescriptions are managed by qualified healthcare professionals.”
The authors concluded by advocating for further research to better understand the comprehensive effects of GLP-1 drugs on both pregnancy and fetal development, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and regulatory measures in clinical practice.
For further details, refer to the original study: Thapaliya et al., 2025, Medical Journal of Australia.
