GLP1 Periconception Exposure and OB Outcomes

About this episode

This episode discusses the implications of GLP-1 agent exposure during the periconception period and its potential effects on obstetric outcomes.

There is no denying it, you know of one or MORE individuals or patients currently on a GLP1 agent. Although not FDA approved for PCOS as a stand-alone diagnosis, there is growing evidence supporting their offlabel use in PCOS, and international guidelines now include them as a conditional recommendation. In women, the weight loss associated with these medications may trigger the return of spontaneous ovulation, making mistimed pregnancy a possibility. A key study by Sanz and Blázquez (back in 2011) demonstrated that both GLP-1 and the GLP-1 receptor are present in mouse embryos as early as embryonic day 6 (E6) and continue through the first trimester, as well as in pluripotent mouse embryonic stem cells. In these undifferentiated cells, GLP-1 modified the expression of endodermal, ectodermal, and mesodermal gene markers, as well as critical developmental signaling molecules. So, there is a concern about embryogenesis if inadvertent exposure to these meds occurs in early pregnancy. In this episode, we will summarize 2 recent and separate systematic reviews (March 2026; April 2026) on fetal/OB outcomes after periconceptional exposure. This builds on the Parker data set from 2025…

People in this episode

Host: Hector Chapa

Topics covered

• GLP-1 agents
• PCOS
• periconception exposure
• fetal outcomes
• embryogenesis
• systematic reviews

Keywords

• GLP-1
• PCOS
• pregnancy
• embryogenesis
• systematic review
• fetal outcomes
• weight loss
• ovulation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Ozbek L, Shah E, Al-Shiab R, Inal A, Guldan M, Afsar B, Covic A, Kanbay M, Parker

Books & works: Safety of GLP-1 and Dual GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonists in Preconception, Pregnancy, and Lactation: A Systematic Review of Maternal, Fetal

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