GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Fertility Restoration, and Reproductive Safety in Women of Reproductive Age: A Narrative Review

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly used for the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes, particularly among women of reproductive age. Emerging evidence suggests potential effects on ovulation, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the reproductive safety of GLP-1RAs, with a focus on their implications for conception, unintended pregnancy, and maternal–fetal outcomes. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and relevant bibliographic sources to identify studies published between 2020 and 2025. The search included clinical trials, observational studies, registry data, case reports, and selected preclinical evidence. Studies addressing reproductive outcomes, including ovulation, fertility, pregnancy exposure, and fetal safety, were included. Evidence was synthesized descriptively in accordance with recommended approaches for narrative reviews. Results: Available evidence indicates that GLP-1RAs may improve ovulatory function and menstrual regularity, particularly in women with obesity or polycystic ovary syndrome, potentially increasing the likelihood of conception. However, human data on pregnancy exposure remain limited. While current evidence does not consistently demonstrate a strong teratogenic signal, findings are based on small samples and heterogeneous study designs. Concerns persist regarding unintended pregnancies due to improved fertility and the absence of robust safety data during early gestation. Conclusions: GLP-1RAs present a complex clinical scenario in women of reproductive age, with potential benefits for metabolic and reproductive health but uncertain safety during pregnancy. Clinicians should exercise caution, provide appropriate contraceptive counseling, and carefully weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing these agents. Further large-scale, prospective studies are needed to clarify reproductive safety and inform evidence-based clinical guidelines.

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Journal
Journal of Clinical Medicine
Published
2026-04-22
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15093204
Primary Topic
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
Type
article
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article

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Fertility Restoration, and Reproductive Safety in Women of Reproductive Age: A Narrative Review

Subhranshu Sekhar Kar, Rajani Dube, Biji Thomas George, Ibrahim Alabid et al.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
article

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Fertility Restoration, and Reproductive Safety in Women of Reproductive Age: A Narrative Review

Subhranshu Sekhar Kar, Rajani Dube, Biji Thomas George, Ibrahim Alabid, Liyan Khadeeja, Ahmad Kharoufeh, Mohamedanas Mohamedfaruk Patni, Thilakavathy Pandurangan, Arshiya Nasreen Bint Shajahan, Malak Moones Abedi
article en

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly used for the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes, particularly among women of reproductive age. Emerging evidence suggests potential effects on ovulation, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the reproductive safety of GLP-1RAs, with a focus on their implications for conception, unintended pregnancy, and maternal–fetal outcomes. Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and relevant bibliographic sources to identify studies published between 2020 and 2025. The search included clinical trials, observational studies, registry data, case reports, and selected preclinical evidence. Studies addressing reproductive outcomes, including ovulation, fertility, pregnancy exposure, and fetal safety, were included. Evidence was synthesized descriptively in accordance with recommended approaches for narrative reviews. Results: Available evidence indicates that GLP-1RAs may improve ovulatory function and menstrual regularity, particularly in women with obesity or polycystic ovary syndrome, potentially increasing the likelihood of conception. However, human data on pregnancy exposure remain limited. While current evidence does not consistently demonstrate a strong teratogenic signal, findings are based on small samples and heterogeneous study designs. Concerns persist regarding unintended pregnancies due to improved fertility and the absence of robust safety data during early gestation. Conclusions: GLP-1RAs present a complex clinical scenario in women of reproductive age, with potential benefits for metabolic and reproductive health but uncertain safety during pregnancy. Clinicians should exercise caution, provide appropriate contraceptive counseling, and carefully weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing these agents. Further large-scale, prospective studies are needed to clarify reproductive safety and inform evidence-based clinical guidelines.

Journal of Clinical MedicineVol. 15(9)
Ras al-Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (AE)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 8%
Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
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