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Can weight loss injections affect fertility?
Weight loss injections have gained popularity in recent months, with many experiencing the benefits of this treatment. Under NHS guidelines, GPs are now permitted to prescribe weight loss injections; however, there are many questions about how they affect overall health, especially fertility.
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Why is it important to maintain a healthy weight for fertility?
Being overweight can sometimes lead to problems with ovulation, especially for individuals with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). During IVF treatment, a higher BMI may require an increased dose of stimulating injections, which are used to enhance follicle growth in the ovaries. This can result in a poorer response to these injections, impacting egg and sperm quality, and potentially leading to fewer eggs being collected during retrieval.
Additionally, during pregnancy, a higher body mass index (BMI) can increase the risks of obstetric complications, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, foetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and stillbirth. In some cases, a high BMI can affect the baby's growth and may lead to issues during labour.
Maintaining a healthy BMI, ideally between 19 and 25, is essential before pregnancy, especially if you are considering IVF treatment, as it can enhance safety, particularly regarding anaesthesia during surgical procedures.
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BMI limits and anaesthesia
During fertility treatment, patients are often given sedation. BMI restrictions are in place due to the technical challenges associated with oocyte retrieval in women with higher BMI and the risks associated with the sedation needed for anaesthesia. Other risks include difficulties accessing veins, airway management issues, and maintaining safe oxygen levels during sedation. At TFP Fertility, we may treat women with a BMI of up to 37 in certain cases, but a specialised anaesthetic assessment is required. However, at TFP GCRM Fertility in Glasgow, our anaesthetists are comfortable managing patients with a BMI of up to 40 Kg/m2. Rest assured, we will discuss BMI limits in detail during your consultation.
What are weight loss injections?
Weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, are known as GLP-1 agonists and mimic the activity of a hormone called GLP-1. These injections effectively slow down digestion, helping you feel fuller for longer and suppressing your appetite, which can lead to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss.
If you are struggling with weight loss or have a BMI of 30 or higher, you may benefit from these injections. Additionally, patients with weight-related health complications, such as diabetes or hypertension, may also be offered weight loss injections.
It’s important to understand that weight loss injections should not be relied upon solely for weight loss. It is only beneficial when it is combined with healthy lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you are considering weight loss injections, it is crucial to speak to your GP first.
Weight loss injections and IVF
If your weight is affecting your fertility, you may be prescribed weight loss injections by your fertility clinic or GP to lower your BMI and enhance your chances of conception through IVF treatment.
These injections may also help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
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It is advised that you stop the injections at least two months before starting your IVF treatment. Due to the lack of sufficient data regarding weight loss injections and the potential risk to embryo development, stopping the injections two months before starting treatment will help ensure that the medication is cleared from your system.
Some individuals may find the break difficult, as weight may fluctuate. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate regular exercise and adopt a healthy diet during the two-month wait before IVF treatment. Rest assured, your fertility clinic or GP will provide you with guidance and advice on how you can incorporate these lifestyle choices into your routine.
What are the risks of weight loss injections?
While weight loss injections are generally safe, it is important to be aware that there are some risks involved with long-term use, which is why a two-month wash-out period is recommended to ensure your safety during IVF treatment.
Long-term use could have negative effects, potentially increasing the risk of miscarriage or pregnancy loss. It may also impact other hormonal pathways.
However, your fertility clinic or GP will discuss how long you should continue using weight loss injections and when to stop them.
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