Can You Take Ozempic While Breastfeeding With PCOS?

Ozempic is a pretty new drug, but it’s quickly become one of the most recognizable prescription medications out there. It was originally created to help regulate blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. However, once people began revealing its weight management benefits, Ozempic (semaglutide) was suddenly seen as a miracle drug. 

Since women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often struggle with insulin resistance—a form of blood sugar dysregulation—it’s got lots of Cysters wondering if Ozempic is right for them. And honestly, with symptoms like weight gain, intense cravings, fatigue, brain fog, dark patches of skin, fertility issues, and more? It’s not surprising that Cysters are looking for answers.

However, Ozempic isn’t the key to healing PCOS. It can mask symptoms, but it doesn’t address the root problem. When you stop taking it, those insulin resistance symptoms usually come right back. And, with that in mind, people begin asking, “But do you have to get off it?”  I believe that all medications should have an exit plan, if possible. Beyond that, though, you won’t be able to take Ozempic during pregnancy, and it’s not recommended while breastfeeding either.

In this post, I’m going to go over the potential effects Ozempic could have on you and your baby if taken while breastfeeding. I’ll also cover other options that are safer, side-effect-free, and permanent.

Here’s what you need to know:

Can You Take Ozempic While Breastfeeding With PCOS?

No, most doctors won’t approve the use of Ozempic while breastfeeding. There’s very little research on the effects right now, so better safe than sorry! It’s also important to note that Ozempic actually isn’t FDA-approved for anything but type 2 diabetes. It’s not made or well-studied for PCOS either, which is another reason I don’t recommend as a permanent PCOS solution.  

What is Ozempic?

Lately, maybe you’ve been asking: What is Ozempic? Ozempic is the brand name for the medication semaglutide, one of a few GLP-1 agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Since it’s like a copy of this hormone, it’s considered a “GLP-1 receptor agonist.” 

That’s nice and all, but now you’re probably asking: What does Ozempic actually do? It’s known for improving insulin sensitivity, reducing the amount of sugar your liver releases, and slowing stomach emptying. The results? Weight loss, reduced appetite, and sometimes improved fertility.

But, even if Ozempic helps you get pregnant, you can’t take the drug while pregnant, and it’s not recommended once the baby is born either. There’s concern that semaglutide could negatively impact breast milk quality and supply.

Here’s what medical professionals and researchers are worried about:

How Does Ozempic Affect Breastfeeding With PCOS?

May Disrupt the Infant’s Blood Sugar Levels

Some early studies have shown that Ozempic could enter breastmilk through the mother’s bloodstream. And since semaglutide is a protein, it wouldn’t break down until it reached the baby’s stomach. As a result, these trace amounts could theoretically then interfere with a baby’s blood sugar levels. The risk is even greater with premature infants, who generally have less effective immune systems than full-term babies. 

Could Cause Digestive Issues in the Baby 

Additionally, that protein may be hard to digest! Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are already one of the main side effects of Ozempic in adults. So, if an infant were indirectly exposed through breast milk, there’s a chance they could experience similar issues. 

Can Interfere With the Infant’s Nutrient Absorption 

The semaglutide protein is designed to slow down metabolism—basically prolonging stomach emptying and digestion. This can delay the absorption of vitamins, minerals, and medications in your little one. It could also suppress their appetite, making it even harder for them to get the nutrients they need.

Side Effects May Lower Milk Production 

Ozempic suppresses appetite, which can lead to lower calorie intake, slower nutrient absorption, and potential hormonal imbalances. If prolactin—the hormone that drives milk production—is affected and there isn’t enough food coming in, breastfeeding mothers could see a significant drop in milk supply if they continue taking Ozempic. 

Ozempic and Breastfeeding With PCOS: What You Need to Know

It is not recommended when breastfeeding. 

No medical professional recommends that breastfeeding women take Ozempic. 

Some studies suggest it can pass through milk. 

There’s limited research, but a few early studies show there’s a potential risk of drug transfer in breast milk. Even small amounts could be a risk to your baby, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!

There’s no significant safety data yet.

Though there’s no strong evidence that Ozempic is explicitly unsafe, there’s also no research proving it’s safe for breastfeeding mothers. To put it simply, there is currently no significant safety data for this demographic. 

There are plenty of natural, breastfeeding-safe blood sugar management options. 

Just because Ozempic is off the table doesn’t mean you can’t reduce your insulin resistance and find symptom relief. In fact, there are lots of ways to naturally and holistically get to the root of insulin resistance and support your body’s healing. In other words: real recovery, without the unwanted side effects. Most women with PCOS don’t need Ozempic or any other GLP-1 prescription! 

Here are some things you can do to reverse insulin resistance with PCOS: 

Discuss all medications and supplements with your doctor when breastfeeding. 

There are lots of safe medications and supplements you can take while breastfeeding. However, make sure you discuss your plans with a medical professional. Only take what the doctor prescribes! 

Alternatives to Ozempic for PCOS While Breastfeeding

Have you heard of nature’s Ozempic? Berberine Advanced acts as a natural GLP-1 booster, helping your body release more of the hormone GLP-1. This hormone plays a key role in regulating blood sugar, improving insulin sensitivity, and controlling appetite, making it a powerful tool for managing PCOS naturally.

Beyond boosting GLP-1, Berberine Advanced delivers a range of powerful benefits. Its Berberine Phytosome™ formulation improves absorption, so your body can truly experience its effects—like reduced cravings, improved metabolism, and better hormonal balance. And, unlike Ozempic, it’s gentle on the digestive system, making it safe and effective for breastfeeding moms looking to manage PCOS without prescription drugs.

Do not take Ozempic while breastfeeding. 

Ozempic is not my first recommendation for PCOS management, It’s just a bandaid! It doesn’t get to the root issue, and you have to stop while pregnant and breastfeeding. Which, ultimately, is often when women need the most support and consistency managing symptoms—espeically with healthy healing and sleep.

Instead of asking your doctor about Ozempic, ask him about Ovafit’s Berberine Advanced. It’s high-quality, NSF-certified, and specifically formulated with a PCOS body in mind. It’s the natural GLP-1 booster you need to reach your goals safely while breastfeeding. 

You can get tons more PCOS healing strategies, resources, recipes, workouts, and handy tools on The Cysterhood app. Come join our community to find ways to live symptom-free with PCOS!