GLP‑1 Agonists & Fertility: What You Really Need to Know on Your Journey to Parenthood

A New Class of Medications, A New Set of Questions 

GLP‑1 receptor agonists have quickly become some of the most talked‑about medications in the world. For many, they’ve been life‑changing—helping with weight loss, metabolic stability, and better overall health. But for people trying to conceive, especially those navigating PCOS or fertility treatment, it’s natural to wonder:

Are GLP‑1s safe? Helpful? Harmful?

Do they affect ovulation or IVF?

What if I get pregnant on them?

At Boston IVF, we believe in clear, compassionate guidance grounded in science—and in your goals. So let’s unpack the truth about GLP‑1 medications and fertility, in a way that supports both your health today and your family building plans for tomorrow.

What GLP‑1 Agonists Actually Do

GLP‑1 (glucagon‑like peptide‑1) is a hormone produced in the intestine. It helps regulate:

• Insulin secretion 
• Blood sugar levels 
• Appetite and satiety 
• Gastric emptying

GLP‑1 agonist medications—like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®), liraglutide (Saxenda®), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), and others—mimic this hormone to promote:

• Steady blood sugar 
• Weight loss 
• Decreased appetite 
• Enhanced metabolic stability

These medications were originally developed for type 2 diabetes, but are now widely used for obesity, insulin resistance, and PCOS‑related metabolic concerns.

GLP‑1s & PCOS: Why They’re Being Used More Often

PCOS is driven in part by:

• Insulin resistance 
• Hormonal imbalance 
• Irregular ovulation 
• Metabolic inflammation

GLP‑1 agonists may help address several of these challenges at once. Research has demonstrated:

• Improved insulin sensitivity 
• Weight loss (often 10–15% with semaglutide; up to 30% with newer agents) 
• Improved menstrual regularity 
• Reduced free testosterone 
• Better cardiometabolic markers

Some studies even show improved IVF outcomes when GLP‑1s are combined with metformin in certain PCOS patients with obesity. But—it’s important to remember:

• GLP‑1s treat metabolic issues, not PCOS itself.
• They aren’t recommended for PCOS unless metabolic risk factors or higher BMI are part of the picture.

Where GLP‑1 Medications Help Fertility—And Where They Don’t 

You may have seen “Ozempic babies” trending online. While catchy, this nickname needs clarity.

How GLP‑1s can improve fertility:

Weight loss—whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or both—can:

• Restore ovulation in some people with PCOS 
• Improve menstrual regularity 
• Improve insulin sensitivity 
• Reduce inflammation 
• Support more predictable cycles

This is the main reason some people unexpectedly conceive while taking GLP‑1s, especially if they weren’t ovulating before.

How GLP‑1s don’t improve fertility:

GLP‑1s do not directly boost egg quality, embryo quality, or ovarian reserve. They also do not replace fertility treatment for people who need IVF or IUI for other reasons.

If You Are Trying to Conceive: When to STOP GLP‑1s

This is one of the most important takeaways—and one of the biggest misunderstandings.

If you plan to get pregnant: stop GLP‑1s at least 2 months before trying.

Why?

There’s limited human data, and animal studies show potential risks:

• Reduced fetal growth 
• Organ development abnormalities 
• Possible congenital anomalies

So until we know more, GLP‑1s are not considered safe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

If You’re Doing Fertility Treatment: When to STOP

Egg Retrieval (IVF or Egg Freezing) 

• Stop GLP‑1s at least 2 weeks before starting stimulation 
• This avoids delayed gastric emptying, which can be dangerous during anesthesia 

Embryo Transfer or Trying to Conceive 

• Stop at least 2 months before actively trying 

Egg Banking / Embryo Banking (not transferring yet) 

• Can typically stop right before the stimulation cycle

Are GLP‑1s Safe During IVF?

Short answer: No—not during the conception phase.

However, before IVF, GLP‑1s can:

• Support weight loss 
• Improve insulin resistance 
• Stabilize cycles in PCOS 
• Lower metabolic risk factors

This may improve IVF safety, particularly for anesthesia and response to medications. But you must discontinue them at the proper time.

Side Effects, Long‑Term Use & Other Considerations

GLP‑1s are generally well tolerated, with common side effects including:

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Injection‑site reactions 
• Headaches

Other important factors:

• They are intended for long‑term use 
• Most people regain around two‑thirds of lost weight within a year of stopping 
• No lab monitoring is required
• MUST avoid if there is a history of:  
  
  • Pancreatitis 
  • MEN2 
  • Medullary thyroid carcinoma 
  • Pregnancy or lactation

A Critical Point: Contraception Matters

Because ovulation may return once weight decreases, effective contraception is essential while on GLP‑1s—especially for people with PCOS. Oral contraceptives may be less effective due to delayed gastric emptying, so non‑oral methods (IUD, implant, ring, condoms) are preferred.

So…Do GLP‑1 Agonists Affect Fertility?

Yes—but mostly indirectly. They may improve fertility by:

• Restoring ovulation 
• Improving metabolic health 
• Regulating cycles 
• Supporting safer IVF stimulation

But they may harm pregnancy if taken during conception or gestation.

Think of GLP‑1s as tools—not fertility drugs. Used thoughtfully and with expert guidance, they can be incredibly helpful.

The Boston IVF Approach: Safety + Science + Support

We see GLP‑1 agonists as part of personalized, whole‑body fertility planning—especially for people with PCOS, insulin resistance, or higher BMI. When appropriate, we help patients:

• Use GLP‑1s safely prior to conception 
• Time discontinuation correctly 
• Support lifestyle changes that boost fertility 
• Build long‑term plans that fit their family goals 
• Protect emotional well‑being (because weight conversations can be hard)

Above all, decisions about GLP‑1s and fertility should be shared, compassionate, and grounded in evidence—not hype.

Considering GLP‑1 medications while planning a family? We’re here to help.

Whether you’re navigating PCOS, preparing for IVF, or simply exploring options to improve metabolic health, you deserve a plan that honors both your body and your dreams.

Our team is here to guide you with clarity, care, and expertise. Speak with a Boston IVF fertility specialist to explore how GLP‑1 agonists may fit—safely—into your fertility journey.

Because your health matters. Your future matters. And your path to parenthood should feel informed, supported, and full of hope. 

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every individual’s health, fertility, and treatment plan is unique. If you are currently taking a GLP‑1 medication—or considering starting or stopping one—please speak directly with your Boston IVF physician or your own healthcare team. They can help you understand what is safest and most appropriate for your specific medical history, fertility goals, and timing.

Never make changes to your medication without consulting your provider.