From the Research
Men should stop taking Wegovy (semaglutide) at least 2 months before attempting to conceive a child, as recommended for women, due to the lack of definitive human studies on its effects on male fertility and the potential risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. While there are no direct human studies addressing male fertility and semaglutide, a recent study 1 found that semaglutide improved sperm morphology in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus and functional hypogonadism, which may suggest a positive effect on male fertility. However, another study 2 highlighted the potential risks of GLP-1 receptor agonists during pregnancy, including decreased fetal growth, skeletal and visceral anomalies, and embryonic death, although these findings were based on animal studies and not directly applicable to humans. Given the potential risks and benefits, it is essential to prioritize caution and consider the medication's properties, such as its long half-life, when making decisions about conception. The recommended timeframe of at least 2 months allows for the drug to be completely eliminated from the system and covers a complete sperm production cycle, which takes approximately 74 days. If you're taking Wegovy and planning to conceive, consult with your healthcare provider about a discontinuation plan that balances your weight management needs with family planning goals, and consider alternative weight management strategies during this period to maintain the health benefits you've achieved while preparing for conception.
Some key points to consider:
- The lack of definitive human studies on the effects of semaglutide on male fertility
- The potential risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists during pregnancy
- The importance of prioritizing caution when making decisions about conception
- The need to consider alternative weight management strategies during the preconception period
- The potential benefits of semaglutide on sperm morphology and male fertility, as suggested by recent studies 1
It is crucial to weigh the potential benefits and risks of semaglutide and make an informed decision with your healthcare provider, taking into account your individual circumstances and health goals.