In this episode of the Conceive Baby Podcast, expert Fertility Naturopath and Nutritionist Tasha Jennings engages in an eye-opening discussion with colleague Wendy Burke, about the relationship between GLP1 agonists like Ozempic and fertility.
Initially developed for diabetes management, these medications have surged in popularity for their weight loss benefits, potentially, indirectly, positively impacting pregnancy outcomes.
The episode delves into how these medications work, their safety, side effects and critical support strategies.
Throughout the episode, Tasha and Wendy examine the evolving landscape of utilizing GLP1 agonists beyond their traditional applications. Addressing key concerns around metabolic health, weight management, and fertility, they provide insights into the use of these medications as potential enhancers of fertility through weight loss and inflammation reduction.
However, they emphasize that these are not standalone solutions but part of an integrative approach that includes nutrition, exercise, and possibly other supportive medications or supplements to help ensure the best outcomes.
Key Takeaways:
- Complex Effects on Fertility: GLP1 agonists like Ozempic, though not initially intended for fertility use, impact fertility by managing weight and metabolic health, aiding in improved reproductive outcomes.
- Gut-Health Connection: The release and function of GLP1 agonists are closely linked with gut health, affecting inflammatory responses and overall metabolic function.
- Integrated Approach is Vital: Successful outcomes with GLP1 agonists require a comprehensive plan, including diet, exercise, and medical monitoring, rather than relying solely on medication.
- Potential Candidates: Women with PCOS or those with insulin resistance might benefit significantly from these medications when used in a holistic treatment plan.
- Precautionary Measures: This episode delves into the importance of planning, preparation, understanding side effects, limitations, the crucial impact of gut health and holistically supporting metabolic health as well as ensuring a monitored withdrawal before conception.
About the Guest:
Wendy Burke is a mum, a wife and a perimenopausal human who also happens to be a naturopath and business owner. She is the owner of the Healthy Hormone Naturopath located in Brisbane, which is a clinic that loves to treat all things female hormones from vaginal infections, menstrual concerns, fertility right through to menopause.
Previously in corporate and once a very unhealthy person. Her own experience of recovering from postnatal depression through diet and lifestyle changes is what prompted her to go back and retrain as a naturopath. And recently, fascinated by the rise in this new class of weight loss medications, and with her background of living in a larger body providing a unique perspective on them, she has spent hundreds of hours pouring through the research so she can support her patients and now kindly sharing her insights with us.