In recent years, the use of GLP–1 medication (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) for weight loss has grown significantly. Originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, GLP-1s mimic a hormone our bodies naturally make after eating, helping to regulate blood sugar levels, slow down digestion, reduce appetite, and promote a feeling of fullness.
Now, this trend is now appearing in the postpartum space, influencing how many women view their bodies after childbirth. But is it safe for new mothers to use GLP-1s?
According to a medical report published by LactMed, research found that a GLP-1 medication is not detectable in breast milk. However, caution is still advised, as oral formulations contain absorption enhancers that may enter breast milk and pose potential risks to nursing infants.
In a recent Q&A, Dr. Jyoti Manekar, family and obesity medicine specialist at Northside Hospital and Bariatric Innovations of Atlanta, shared her professional insights for postpartum women and the use of GLP-1 medications.
What’s the difference between the brand names (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound)?
Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide, but they are approved for different uses. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (and used off-label for weight loss). Wegovy is approved specifically for chronic weight management. Mounjaro and Zepbound both contain tirzepatide, which targets two hormones — GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) — potentially offering even greater metabolic and weight loss benefits. However, Mounjaro is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, whereas Zepbound is approved for weight management.
Though semaglutide and tirzepatide are similar in action, tirzepatide tends to show slightly more weight loss in clinical trials.
What are the common side effects of GLP-1 medications?
Most side effects are gastrointestinal, especially early on. This can be seen through nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, bloating or abdominal pain and decreased appetite. These are typically dose-dependent and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts.
Serious but rare side effects include Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), Gallbladder issues like gallstones or inflammation, thyroid tumors, severe dehydration and persistent nausea and vomiting, or Hypoglycemia, especially if combined with other blood sugar-lowering medications.
It’s strongly advised that these drugs be started only under close medical supervision, with careful dose titration and monitoring.
Are GLP-1s safe to use during the postpartum period?
Currently, GLP-1 medications are not recommended during the postpartum period if you are breastfeeding. There’s limited safety data in lactating women, and it's unclear whether the drug is excreted in breast milk or how it might affect a nursing infant’s growth, metabolism, or pancreatic development.
For women who are not breastfeeding, GLP-1s may be considered after the immediate postpartum recovery period — typically around 6–12 weeks post-delivery, depending on your overall health, healing status and provider’s guidance. However, this should always be a shared decision with your health care provider.
There are no "exemptions" that override the safety concern if you are breastfeeding. But if you're formula feeding or have weaned your baby, you may qualify for these medications if you meet the criteria, such as a BMI greater than 30, or a BMI greater than 27 with a weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or PCOS.
What are compounded weight loss medications? Are they safe for the postpartum period?
Compounded GLP-1s are custom-mixed versions (often of semaglutide or tirzepatide) produced by specialty pharmacies. They are often marketed when commercial versions are in short supply or cost-prohibitive. However, they are not FDA-approved or regulated for consistency, purity or efficacy, and some do not use the same salt form, which may affect how the drug works. There have been recent concerns about contaminants, incorrect dosing, or inactive ingredients, which is why, as a physician, I would advise caution with compounded versions, especially during sensitive periods like postpartum.
If you’re considering a compounded weight loss medication, please involve a licensed health care provider and ensure you receive medication from an accredited pharmacy.
What should people keep in mind as they read this kind of information?
The postpartum period is a complex and physically demanding time and weight loss should never come at the cost of your health or your baby’s. If you’re feeling pressure to “bounce back,” know that there is no deadline for healing.
Nutrition, sleep, stress management and mental health support are equally — if not more — important than medications during this period. For those struggling with obesity-related health issues postpartum, evidence-based tools like GLP-1s may eventually be part of your care plan — but only when it’s medically appropriate and emotionally aligned with your current life stage. Always work closely with your OB/GYN, primary care physician, or a board-certified obesity medicine specialist to create a safe and supportive postpartum wellness plan.
Learn more about GLP-1s and how Northside Hospital can help.
