Weight loss after childbirth is a concern for many new mothers. Alongside this, the increasing use of Ozempic, a medication that has gained popularity for weight loss raises important questions about its
safety during the postpartum period. While Ozempic may help some adults lose weight, its use after delivery must be carefully evaluated by a doctor, particularly if the mother is breastfeeding.
Dr Arathi Sreedhara, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Laparoscopic Gynaecology at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, shares what new mothers need to know.
What Is Ozempic and Why Is It Being Considered?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication originally prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by regulating blood sugar levels, reducing appetite, and delaying gastric emptying. These effects often lead to significant weight loss, which is why Ozempic is increasingly being considered for obesity management.
After childbirth, many women struggle to lose pregnancy weight due to hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress, and reduced physical activity. This has made weight-loss medications like Ozempic appealing as a seemingly quick solution.
Is Ozempic Safe After Pregnancy?
Ozempic is not safe to use during pregnancy and is not prescribed due to the potential risk of fetal developmental issues and pregnancy complications.
In the postpartum period, the safety of Ozempic largely depends on one critical factor, breastfeeding. Doctors tend to be extremely cautious when prescribing medications to breastfeeding mothers, as it is not yet fully known whether semaglutide passes into breast milk or what effects it may have on an infant.
Breastfeeding and Ozempic: A Caution Zone
The excretion of semaglutide into human breast milk and its potential impact on infant growth and development remain largely unknown. Ozempic significantly suppresses appetite, which can be problematic for lactating mothers who require higher calorie and nutrient intake to support milk production and postpartum recovery.
Additionally, gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting may further compromise nutritional intake, affecting both the mother and the baby. Due to these concerns, most healthcare professionals recommend waiting until breastfeeding has completely stopped before considering Ozempic.
Use in Non-Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers who are not breastfeeding, Ozempic may be considered after childbirth but only under close medical supervision. While it is not specifically approved for postpartum weight loss, some doctors may prescribe it off-label based on individual circumstances.
Several factors influence this decision, including the mother’s overall health, recovery from childbirth, presence of metabolic conditions such as diabetes or insulin resistance, and mental well-being. Timing is also crucial; Ozempic is generally not prescribed soon after delivery, as the body especially after a caesarean section or complicated birth requires time for healing and hormonal stabilization.
Side Effects and Postpartum Considerations
Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. During the postpartum period, these effects can worsen exhaustion and interfere with adequate nutrition. Rapid weight loss may also negatively impact muscle strength, bone health, and energy levels, factors that are particularly important during recovery and early motherhood.
Ozempic is not indicated during pregnancy and is generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to limited safety data and potential risks to infants. It may be considered for non-lactating mothers only after sufficient postpartum recovery and under strict medical supervision.
Healthcare professionals emphasise that gradual weight loss through a balanced diet, adequate hydration, sufficient rest, and gentle physical activity remains the safest and most sustainable approach after childbirth. Any weight-loss medication should be used only after consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who prioritises both maternal health and infant safety.
