Can Weight Loss Pens Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?

Weight loss pens have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a promising solution for those struggling to shed excess weight. As a pharmacy with our own weight loss clinic, we often hear questions from our customers about our weight loss injections and how the side effects may affect them. 

One common concern amongst women is whether these pens could affect their menstrual cycle. It’s a valid question. After all, our bodies are complex systems, and changes in weight or hormone levels can sometimes impact monthly cycles. 

What are weight loss pens?

Weight loss pens, also known as weight loss injections, are self-administered prescription treatments that look similar to insulin pens. They contain medications designed to help reduce appetite and promote weight loss.

These pens typically contain drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone that naturally occurs in your body and helps regulate appetite and food intake. The medications in these pens mimic this hormone, making you feel fuller for longer.

Some common types of weight loss pens include:

• Semaglutide (brand names: Wegovy, Ozempic)
• Liraglutide (brand name: Saxenda)
• Tirzepatide (brand name: Mounjaro) 

Do weight loss pens cause irregular periods?

Weight loss pens have become popular for managing obesity, and some female users have reported changes in their menstrual cycles. Although there’s limited research on this specific side effect, the experiences of many users suggest a potential link.

Weight loss pens may affect menstrual cycles through their influence on hormonal pathways. These medications interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which regulates menstrual cycles. Some women using these injections have reported experiencing symptoms like irregular bleeding, changes in menstrual flow, and, in some cases, a temporary pause in menstruation.

Ozempic is a diabetes medication that is often used off-label for weight loss. It can indirectly affect menstrual cycles by regulating blood sugar levels and disrupting hormonal balance, which may lead to changes in menstrual patterns. There could be a chance that fluctuations in blood sugar levels while taking Ozempic impact your menstrual cycle. The connection between blood sugar, body weight, and reproductive hormones highlights the need for awareness of possible menstrual changes when using these medications.

It’s important to note that not all women will experience menstrual irregularities, and for many who do, the effects are temporary. As the body adjusts to the medication and losing weight, menstrual cycles often return to normal. 

Does weight loss impact your menstrual cycle?

It may not be the weight loss injections specifically that are affecting your period, but rather the impact of the weight loss itself. Weight loss, whether achieved through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise or medical interventions, can have significant effects on your menstrual cycle. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, significant weight loss in a short space of time can lead to amenorrhea (stopping menstruation). This is because the body may interpret rapid weight loss as a sign of stress or insufficient nutrition, potentially affecting reproductive functions.

It’s not just fast weight loss that can affect menstruation. Even modest weight loss can have a positive impact on metabolic, reproductive and psychological factors, especially those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Studies have shown that 5–10% weight loss can improve insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, glucose tolerance, menstrual function, ovulation, and pregnancy. A study into the use of semaglutide in obese PCOS patients found that even low doses reduced their body weight by up to 80%, despite not seeing results with other weight loss plans. 

The extent of these effects can vary greatly from woman to woman, as factors like starting weight, rate of weight loss, overall health, and any pre-existing menstrual irregularities will determine how weight loss might impact your cycle. While some will likely experience changes in their menstruation during weight loss, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you think something might be wrong. 

Start Your Weight Loss Journey with Click2Pharmacy

At Click2Pharmacy’s online weight loss clinic, we offer a range of weight management solutions, including prescription weight loss pens. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges associated with weight management and hormonal changes and offers different types of medications to suit your needs. 

Whether you’re considering weight loss pens or exploring other options to help with weight loss, our online clinic provides a convenient way to access these treatments. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from achieving your health goals. Visit Click2Pharmacy today to learn more and take the first step towards a healthier you.