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Is it safe to breastfeed while on Wegovy?

Is It Safe to Breastfeed While on Wegovy?
As the popularity of Wegovy, a medication primarily used for weight management, continues to rise, many new mothers are left wondering about its safety during breastfeeding. Wegovy, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, has been shown to aid in weight loss by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite. However, the implications of using this medication while nursing are not entirely clear.
Limited Data and Caution Advised
Current research on the effects of semaglutide during breastfeeding is limited. Health professionals generally recommend exercising caution when considering the use of Wegovy while nursing, particularly for mothers with newborns or preterm infants. The lack of comprehensive studies means that the potential risks to the infant are not fully understood.
While some anecdotal reports from mothers suggest that they have not observed any adverse effects on their babies while using Wegovy, these personal experiences do not replace the need for scientific evidence. The variability in individual responses to medications makes it crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare providers before starting or continuing Wegovy.
Potential Risks and Considerations
The primary concern with using Wegovy during breastfeeding revolves around the possibility of the drug passing into breast milk. Although there is no definitive evidence indicating that semaglutide is harmful to breastfeeding infants, the uncertainty surrounding its transfer into milk necessitates a cautious approach. Mothers are encouraged to weigh the benefits of weight management against the potential risks to their child.
Healthcare providers may suggest alternative weight management strategies that are safer during breastfeeding, especially for those who are nursing exclusively. It is essential for mothers to discuss their specific circumstances with their doctors, who can provide personalized advice based on the latest research and guidelines.
Conclusion
In summary, while some mothers may choose to use Wegovy while breastfeeding, the prevailing advice is to proceed with caution due to the limited data available. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure the safety of both mother and child. As research continues to evolve, clearer guidelines may emerge, but for now, informed decision-making is key.

What happens if I get pregnant 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.

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.

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.

Are Wegovy and Ozempic the same?

Ozempic and Wegovy are different brand names for the same injectable drug, semaglutide. The difference is that Wegovy is approved to manage weight in adults and kids 12 and up who have obesity. Ozempic is approved to lower blood sugar when you have type 2 diabetes.

Can you breastfeed while on semaglutide?

Moreover, the max RID was 1.26% when adjusted for changes in milk concentrations after drug administration. These findings suggest that semaglutide in human milk is unlikely to pose significant risks to breastfed children.

Can I take Wegovy while breastfeeding forum?

You should not take Wegovy during pregnancy. It should not be used if you are breastfeeding. If you are planning a pregnancy, it’s very important to speak to a healthcare professional if you are using this medication.

Can I breastfeed on Mounjaro?

Your doctor will likely recommend not using Mounjaro while breastfeeding. It’s not known whether the drug is safe to use during this time. Researchers have not yet studied Mounjaro’s effects on breast milk. If you’re breastfeeding or considering it, talk with your doctor before starting Mounjaro treatment.

Are weight loss injections safe while breastfeeding?

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

Can you be on Wegovy while breastfeeding?

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 I use Ozempic for weight loss while breastfeeding?

As a result, since the potential risks to nursing infants are not fully understood, healthcare professionals typically advise against using Ozempic while breastfeeding unless the benefits of the medication significantly outweigh the potential risks.

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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