Health authorities in Northern Ireland are urging women to exercise caution when combining contraception with weight loss injections, such as GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide. These medications, increasingly popular for weight management, may interact with hormonal contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. This raises concerns about unintended pregnancies, particularly for women relying on oral contraceptives.
Recent studies suggest that weight loss drugs can alter hormone absorption, impacting how contraceptives work. Women are advised to consult healthcare providers to discuss alternative contraception methods, such as non-hormonal options like copper IUDs, to ensure reliable protection. Additionally, weight loss injections may cause side effects like nausea or irregular periods, which could complicate reproductive health monitoring.
Dr. Sarah Thompson, a Belfast-based gynecologist, emphasizes the importance of personalized medical advice. “Every woman’s body responds differently to these treatments. Open discussions with your doctor can help balance weight loss goals with contraceptive needs”.
Pharmacists also warn of the risks of obtaining weight loss jabs from unregulated sources, which may lack proper dosing or safety information. Women are encouraged to seek prescriptions through licensed providers and report any adverse effects. As demand for weight loss injections grows, NI health officials are calling for increased education on their safe use alongside contraception. Women are urged to stay informed and prioritize professional guidance to safeguard their health.
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