HomeQ&ADoes GLP-1 affect fertility?

Evidence-graded answer

Does GLP-1 affect fertility?

BReviewed by Jane Novak, MD, MPH· Updated 2026-05-31

In adults with PCOS or obesity-related infertility, GLP-1-mediated weight loss often improves ovulation and fertility. There is anecdotal "Ozempic baby" reports of unplanned pregnancies after years of infertility. GLP-1 is not recommended during pregnancy and should be stopped at least 2 months before conception attempts.

Weight loss of 5-10% reliably improves ovulatory function in PCOS. GLP-1 is one of the most effective pharmacologic paths to that threshold.

Tirzepatide reduces oral contraceptive effectiveness in the first 4 weeks of each dose escalation (see related Q: "Does GLP-1 affect birth control"). Combined with improved fertility, this is the mechanism behind several reported unplanned pregnancies.

Plan ahead: stop GLP-1 at least 2 months before conception attempts (both prescribing labels recommend this).

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