Do GLP-1 medications affect fertility or contraception?

GLP-1 medications must be stopped at least 2 months before attempting conception due to potential fetal risks. Animal studies showed harm to fetuses, and human data is insufficient to establish safety during pregnancy. The medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For contraception, GLP-1s may reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives due to delayed gastric emptying and possible vomiting. Women using oral contraceptives should use backup contraception (condoms) for at least 4 weeks after starting GLP-1s and after any dose increases, or consider switching to non-oral contraceptive methods (IUD, implant, injection, patch, ring). There's no evidence that GLP-1s affect fertility when discontinued appropriately before conception. If you become pregnant while taking GLP-1s, stop immediately and contact your healthcare provider. The drug clears from your system over several weeks. Women planning pregnancy should discuss timing with their provider to safely discontinue medication before conception attempts.