Women Report Pregnancies Linked to GLP-1 Medication Use

WHO:

ABC News - Molly Orr, diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

ABC News - Areli Ruiz, diagnosed with secondary infertility after having her first daughter 17 years ago.

ABC News - Dr. Katherine Saunders, a medical professional discussing GLP-1 medications.

WHAT:

ABC News - Women are sharing stories on social media about becoming pregnant after taking GLP-1 medications.

ABC News - Molly Orr became pregnant about a year after starting a GLP-1 medication.

ABC News - Areli Ruiz became pregnant eight months after starting a GLP-1 medication and reported having three pregnancies linked to GLP-1 use.

ABC News - Dr. Saunders stated that GLP-1 medications are not fertility treatments but may improve fertility for women with insulin resistance.

WHERE:

ABC News - The experiences of women are shared on social media platforms, particularly TikTok.

WHEN:

ABC News - Molly Orr's interview aired on "Good Morning America" on a Thursday.

ABC News - Areli Ruiz reported her pregnancies occurring eight months, six months, and one month after starting GLP-1 medications.

WHY:

ABC News - Women reported improved fertility after using GLP-1 medications due to the treatment of metabolic pathways affected by obesity and insulin resistance.

HOW:

ABC News - Dr. Saunders emphasized that the decision to use GLP-1 medications should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

ABC News - The FDA recommends using a backup method of contraception or switching to a non-oral form of birth control for the first four weeks after starting GLP-1 medications and for four weeks after every dose increase.

(UPDATED July 31, 2026 07:56 UTC)

Women are sharing their experiences on social media about becoming pregnant after taking GLP-1 medications, with Molly Orr reporting her pregnancy about a year after starting the treatment and Areli Ruiz becoming pregnant eight months later, having experienced three pregnancies linked to GLP-1 use. Dr. Katherine Saunders explained that while GLP-1 medications are not specifically fertility treatments, they may enhance fertility for women dealing with insulin resistance. She also advised that anyone considering these medications should consult with a healthcare provider and follow FDA guidelines, which recommend using backup contraception for the first four weeks after starting the medication and after any dose increases.