Mounjaro is a weekly injection medication (a “GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist”). It helps manage blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, but it’s also very effective for weight loss in people with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related health problems. Mounjaro is a tool that can help achieve this weight loss alongside diet and exercise changes.
It works in your brain to reduce hunger, helps you feel full faster and longer after eating, and may help your body use insulin better.
Gynaecological conditions may be helped with Mounjaro
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Irregular periods
- Infertility linked to weight
- Increased risk of endometrial (womb lining) problems
Important Benefits:
- Effective Weight Loss: Many people lose a significant amount of weight (often 15% or more).
- Potential Gynaecological Improvements: Weight loss can help:
- Regulate menstrual cycles
- Improve symptoms of PCOS (like excess hair, acne).
- Improve fertility chances (by restoring ovulation).
- Lower the risk of endometrial hyperplasia/cancer linked to excess weight.
- Other Health Benefits: Can improve blood sugar control, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Key Things to Know
- Prescription Only: You need a doctor’s prescription.
- Weekly Injection: You inject it under the skin (thigh, abdomen, or upper arm) once a week.
- Dose Increases: You’ll start on a low dose, gradually increasing over several months to minimise side effects and find the right dose for you.
- Not a Quick Fix: It works alongside healthy eating and regular physical activity. It’s a long-term treatment for chronic weight management.
- Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain (especially when starting or increasing doses). These often improve over time.
- Serious Risks (Rare): Pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney issues, low blood sugar (especially if also on insulin/sulphonylureas). Tell your doctor about severe stomach pain, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms.
- Pregnancy & Contraception:
- STOP Mounjaro at least 2 months before planning pregnancy. It is not safe during pregnancy.
- Weight loss can make you more fertile. Use effective contraception while taking Mounjaro and for 2 months after stopping, even if your periods were irregular before. Mounjaro might make some oral contraceptives less effective – discuss this with your doctor.
- NOT Fertility Medications: While weight loss can improve fertility, Mounjaro itself is not a fertility treatment.
Women with Gynaecological Conditions:
- Discuss PCOS/History: Tell your gynaecologist about any PCOS, endometriosis, irregular periods, or fertility issues.
- Period Changes: Weight loss can cause changes in your menstrual cycle (it might become regular, irregular, or stop temporarily). This is usually due to the weight loss itself. Report persistent or concerning changes.
- Fertility Plans: Be very clear with your gynaecologist about any plans for future pregnancy so they can advise on timing for stopping Mounjaro.
Before Starting & While Taking:
- Tell your doctor about ALL other medicines, supplements, and medical conditions.
- Report any side effects.
- Attend follow-up appointments for monitoring weight, blood pressure, and any necessary tests.
- Commit to lifestyle changes: Focus on nutritious food choices and regular movement – this is essential for Mounjaro to work best and for long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will Mounjaro help my PCOS?
A: Yes! Weight loss often regulates periods, reduces excess hair/acne and improves insulin resistance.
Q: Can I take it while trying to get pregnant?
A: No. Stop Mounjaro ≥2 months before conception. Use contraception until then.
Q: Will my periods change?
A: Possibly! Weight loss can restore regular cycles, cause temporary irregularity. You should report persistent changes to your gynaecologist.
Q: How long until I see results?
A: It is a gradual progress and early appetite reduction starts in weeks 1–4 but significant weight loss occurs after 3–6 months.
Q: Is it covered by insurance?
A: Often covered for diabetes for weight loss only, coverage varies. Ask your insurer.
Q: Can I drink alcohol?
A: Limit alcohol—it worsens nausea and dehydration.
eGynaecologist Advice
- Mounjaro can be transformative for gynaecological health, but safety in pregnancy is non-negotiable. Always partner with both your gynaecologist and weight management specialist to align your treatment with your reproductive goals.
- Mounjaro can impact the effectiveness of certain types of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly oral forms of progesterone. You may need to adjust your HRT dosage or switch you to a non-oral form like a patch or gel and must speak to your gynaecologist.
- Mounjaro can also interfere with your oral contraception by affecting its absorption and you should consider non oral contraceptives.
