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Can I be on Wegovy while breastfeeding?

Understanding Wegovy and Breastfeeding
Wegovy, a brand-name medication containing the active ingredient semaglutide, is primarily prescribed for weight management and to lower cardiovascular risks. However, its use during breastfeeding raises significant concerns due to limited data on its safety in nursing mothers and their infants.
Safety Concerns
Current medical guidance indicates that Wegovy may not be safe to use while breastfeeding. The exact effects of semaglutide on breast milk and consequently on a nursing infant remain unclear. According to available information, it is not known whether the drug passes into breast milk or what potential side effects it could have on a breastfed child . This uncertainty is particularly critical for mothers nursing newborns or preterm infants, as their systems may be more vulnerable to any substances passed through breast milk.
Moreover, Wegovy is classified as a pregnancy category D medication, which means there is evidence of risk to the fetus, and this classification extends to breastfeeding as well. Most medications, including Wegovy, can pass through the placenta and are secreted into breast milk, raising further concerns about their safety during lactation.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the potential risks, healthcare professionals generally recommend exercising caution when considering Wegovy while breastfeeding. It is crucial for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting or continuing the medication. This discussion should include an evaluation of the benefits of weight management against the possible risks to the infant.
In summary, while some anecdotal reports suggest that mothers have used Wegovy without apparent adverse effects on their babies, the lack of comprehensive studies means that the safest course of action is to avoid Wegovy during breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.

Can you be on semaglutide while breastfeeding?

While questions about long-term infant outcomes, the safety of maternal nutrient intake, and the nutrient content of breast milk remain, our findings suggest that semaglutide concentrations in human milk are unlikely to pose clinical concerns for breastfed infants.

Does Wegovy affect birth control?

According to a small-scale 2018 study, oral semaglutide does not affect the bioavailability of the combined birth control pill, which contains ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel.

How to lose 20 pounds in a month while breastfeeding?

How to Lose 20 Pounds While Breast-feeding

  1. Breastfeed as often as the baby shows hunger cues and avoid giving the infant formula.
  2. Decrease your caloric intake to around 1,500 to 1,800 calories a day.
  3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  4. Exercise for 30 minutes or more, on most days of the week.

Can you take Wegovy and breastfeed?

It’s not known whether it’s safe to breastfeed while using Wegovy. Based on animal studies, the drug may pass into breast milk, but it’s unknown what effects (if any) this could have on a child who is breastfed. If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor before starting Wegovy treatment.

Can you take weight loss shots while breastfeeding?

Due to safety concerns, medications for weight loss therapy are not recommended for patients who are breastfeeding.”

What is the safest weight loss while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, you will want to lose weight slowly. Weight loss that happens too fast can make you produce less milk. Losing about a pound and a half (670 grams) a week should not affect your milk supply or your health. Breastfeeding makes your body burn calories which helps you lose weight.

Can I take Wegovy while breastfeeding forum?

You should not take Wegovy during pregnancy. It should not be used if you are breastfeeding.

What can I take to lose weight while breastfeeding?

Aim to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables while minimizing empty carbohydrates and junk food. For some, consuming 1800 calories/day does not allow much room for weight loss via cutting calories however, you can pair dieting with exercise to promote weight loss at a safe pace.

Can you take Wegovy while on birth control?

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may affect the absorption of birth control pills. However, more research is necessary to know whether it makes them less effective or affects other types of birth control.

What if I get pregnant while on semaglutide?

It’s unclear if semaglutide can be harmful in pregnancy. But data from animal studies suggest it should not be used in pregnancy due to potential risks of fetal abnormalities. That’s why the Therapeutic Goods Administration recommends women of childbearing potential use contraception when taking semaglutide.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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