Weight Loss Contraception
Free Contraception for Women Using Weight-Loss Treatment
Why Contraception Matters During Weight-Loss Treatment
Weight loss treatments, including Mounjaro and Wegovy, help improve health and support long term weight management. The MHRA has stated that GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy should not be used in pregnancy or breastfeeding and should not be used in patients that are trying to get pregnant. Due to these factors, contraception for many is not only a lifestyle option but also an important safety consideration.
Free Contraception for Women Using Weight-Loss Treatment
Patients who use weight loss treatments such as Mounjaro, Wegovy or other GLP-1 medicines as part of a weight management plan should use an effective form of contraception. Official guidance advises that GLP-1 medicines should not be used during pregnancy. If you are a woman or a person who could become pregnant and are currently using weight loss treatments, having contraception is a crucial part of your care.
Patients using weight loss services may need practical, clear support around contraception. Here at Dr Weightmans, we have taken this feedback on board and partnered with DrPillmans to help patients access contraception free of charge. DrPillmans also helps provide clear and practical support around contraception to help avoid unplanned pregnancy whilst on weight loss treatments.
Weight Loss May Increase Fertility
For some individuals, losing weight can improve menstrual regularity and ovulation. This can result in pregnancy becoming more likely, even in those individuals where periods were previously irregular. Patients who are not planning a pregnancy should consider reliable contraception before and during weight loss treatment.
Some Weight-Loss Medicines Should Be Stopped Before Pregnancy
For individuals planning pregnancy, official guidance advises patients to stop taking certain GLP-1 medicines before trying to conceive. The College of Sexual Reproductive Healthcare (CoSRH) patient information leaflet states that Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) should be stopped one month before a planned pregnancy, while Semaglutide (Wegovy) should be stopped two months before a planned pregnancy
Vomiting or diarrhoea can affect the pill's absorption.
Common side effects of weight-loss medications include vomiting or diarrhoea. If such an event occurs whilst taking an oral contraceptive pill, the pill is less likely to be absorbed properly and can be less effective. Patients should follow missed-pill or sickness guidance and seek advice if unsure.
Important Advice for Patients Taking Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
Mounjaro, also known as Tirzepatide, requires particular care when it comes to contraception. The MHRA advises that if you are prescribed Mounjaro, you should use a barrier form of contraception (e.g., condoms) and should not rely on oral contraception alone.
Tirzepatide may reduce the effectiveness of oral hormonal contraceptives because it delays gastric emptying. This effect is most notable after starting treatment and subsequent dose increases.
Contraception Advice for Patients Taking Wegovy or Semaglutide
Wegovy contains Semaglutide and is used for both weight loss and weight maintenance. Semaglutide should not be used during pregnancy, and if a patient wishes to become pregnant, Semaglutide should be stopped for a minimum of two months before a planned pregnancy because of its long half-life. Patients should also still consider the effect of vomiting or diarrhoea on pill absorption and follow appropriate contraceptive guidance if they feel unwell to ensure that contraception is still effective.
