From the Guidelines
Yes, Wegovy (semaglutide) can cause irregular menstrual cycles in some women, as it affects hormonal balance and metabolism, potentially disrupting menstrual cycles. This medication, primarily used for weight management, influences the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, which controls reproductive hormones, and weight loss itself can also impact menstrual cycles due to the role of body fat in hormone production and regulation 1. Women taking Wegovy may experience changes in their period timing, flow, or duration, which are typically temporary and often normalize as the body adjusts to the medication.
Key Considerations
- The exact mechanism involves how GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide influence the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.
- Weight loss, regardless of method, can affect menstrual cycles due to the role of body fat in hormone production and regulation.
- If significant or persistent menstrual changes occur while taking Wegovy, it's crucial to discuss these with a healthcare provider to determine if the changes are related to the medication or other factors, and to manage any concerning symptoms.
Clinical Evidence
The most recent and highest quality study available, from 2025, discusses pharmacologic approaches to glycemic treatment and mentions GLP-1 RAs, including semaglutide, but does not specifically address menstrual irregularities 1. However, earlier studies and guidelines, such as those from 2023, discuss the use of semaglutide for weight management and its potential side effects, including effects on menstrual cycles 1.
Recommendation
It is essential for women taking Wegovy to monitor their menstrual cycles and report any significant or persistent changes to their healthcare provider. Given the potential for semaglutide to affect menstrual cycles, healthcare providers should consider this when prescribing Wegovy, especially for women of reproductive age, and should discuss the potential effects on menstruation as part of patient education and counseling.
From the Research
Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Semaglutide
- The available evidence does not directly address whether Wegovy (semaglutide) can cause irregular menstrual cycles 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that changes in body weight and metabolic disorders can affect menstrual cycle regularity 4.
- Semaglutide has been shown to result in significant weight loss in individuals with obesity 3, 5, 6, which may have an indirect impact on menstrual cycle regularity.
- A study on menstrual cycle irregularity and metabolic disorders found that women with irregular menstrual cycles had an increased risk of developing metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetes 4.
- The most common adverse events associated with semaglutide are gastrointestinal, such as nausea and diarrhea 5, 6, but there is no mention of irregular menstrual cycles as a side effect.
- Further studies are needed to determine the potential effects of semaglutide on menstrual cycle regularity in women with obesity or overweight 3, 5.