Can you take Wegovy® while pregnant?

If you’re taking Wegovy® and are planning to get pregnant—or find out you are pregnant while taking the medication—you’re not alone in wondering what to do next. 

It’s an important question that comes with a simple answer: Wegovy® is not recommended during pregnancy.

Let’s walk through why, what the risks are, and what steps to take if you find out you’re pregnant while on Wegovy®.

What is Wegovy®?

Wegovy® is a prescription medication used to treat chronic weight management. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications help regulate appetite, slow gastric emptying, and support blood sugar balance. Clinical trials have shown significant weight loss when treatment is paired with a balanced, nutritious diet and regular movement.

Why Wegovy® isn’t recommended during pregnancy

The main concern comes down to how medication affects both maternal nutrition and fetal development. In general, weight loss isn’t recommended during pregnancy, since this is a time the body needs adequate nutrition and energy to support fetal growth.

Furthermore, there are no well-controlled studies of Wegovy® use in pregnant humans, so safety cannot be guaranteed. In animal studies, semaglutide has been associated with fetal growth issues, structural abnormalities, and pregnancy loss at certain doses. 

For these reasons, the U.S. FDA advises against using Wegovy® during pregnancy.

Planning pregnancy while on Wegovy®

If you’re taking Wegovy® and thinking about getting pregnant, here are a few things you should know:

• Semaglutide has a long half-life, so a two-month “washout” period is recommended by most sources to ensure medication is out of your system before conception. At Shed, we recommend 3 months before attempting pregnancy, which has been affirmed by multiple OB GYN specialists we have spoken with.
• Don’t stop medication without consulting with your provider first. They will help you build a safe transition plan.
• Sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits are an important part of any pre-pregnancy plan, especially if you’re going off a GLP-1.

What if you get pregnant while on Wegovy®?

While Wegovy® and other GLP-1s don’t directly affect infertility, weight-loss effects like improved metabolic health can potentially lead to surprise pregnancies. Side effects like vomiting and significant diarrhea can also interfere with the reliability of oral contraceptives, which is why OBGYNs often recommend backup contraception when starting GLP-1 treatment or after dose increases.

So if you find yourself pregnant while you’re actively on medication, don’t panic. The general recommendation is to stop the medication and contact your provider immediately about next steps. They will consider your unique needs and medical history to help you move forward safely.

After pregnancy: When it’s safe to start Wegovy®

You can start (or restart) Wegovy® after pregnancy, but timing matters here, too.

Wegovy® is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it’s unclear whether semaglutide passes into breast milk and how it might affect the baby.

Most people can consider taking Wegovy® after pregnancy is complete and breastfeeding has ended. Discuss timelines and risks with your provider for individualized counseling.

In summary

There isn’t a lot of research on how Wegovy® affects fetal development and maternal health, so it is not recommended for pregnant women, or those planning to get pregnant. Let your healthcare provider know if you plan to try for a baby and they can help you weigh your options and create a safe plan for you and your future family.

FAQs: Wegovy® and pregnancy

What happens if I accidentally took Wegovy® early in pregnancy?

Stop your medication and contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early exposure doesn’t automatically mean harm, but your provider may monitor you closely for a while to be safe.

Is it safe to lose weight while pregnant?

Intentional weight loss is not recommended during pregnancy. The focus should be on supporting healthy fetal growth, and adequate nutrition intake is an important part of that.

Can I switch to another GLP-1 while pregnant?

No. Other GLP-1 medications follow similar guidance and are not recommended during pregnancy. 

Should men take Wegovy® while trying to conceive?

There is no definitive guidance stating that men must stop Wegovy® when trying to conceive, as research in this area is limited. A good rule of thumb is to discuss this issue with your doctor before trying to conceive.

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.

Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk. Our compounded medications are not affiliated with, nor endorsed by, Novo Nordisk, and are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.