Consideration of Use of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Prior to Pregnancy

Abstract

In reproductive-age females with elevated body mass index (BMI), weight loss is often recommended independent of their reproductive and family planning goals. However, it is clear that lifestyle methods for losing weight often fall short of achieving and maintaining weight loss. As approaches to addressing obesity and weight optimization evolve beyond the simplistic notion of “eat less and move more,” there has been a growing acceptance of weight loss medications as part of comprehensive weight management strategies. It should also be noted that health optimization cannot be solely attributed to reducing BMI or kilograms of body weight. The objective of this paper is not to contribute to the well-established weight stigma in medicine, but rather to highlight a thoughtful approach to the use of weight loss medication in a cohort where the prevalence is expected to rise independent of the indication.