I thought I couldn't have kids until my 'surprise' Mounjaro baby
After being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) aged just 15, Rachael Knight Gullette knew she'd struggle to have children.
PCOS affects how the ovaries work — in particular how eggs grow and how many are released, which can make it difficult to get pregnant.
'It was my greatest fear not being about to have children,' Rachael, 41, says. 'I knew [PCOS] would make it difficult.'
But Rachael and her husband Brad, 44, dreamt of having a child. After looking into IVF, the pandemic hit and 'put things on hold', so Rachael decided to focus on improving her own health to aid her fertility.
She explains: 'I knew I had to change things. I had high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart palpitations and heavy water retention that had already sent me to a cardiologist.'
While she 'always assumed' she'd still require fertility treatments, doctors advised the then 39-year-old that losing weight could help boost her chances of becoming a mum.
'I knew it was kind of now or never for me to have a family,' Rachael, from Kentucky, says.
So in July 2022, she started taking Mounjaro, an injectable GLP-1 medication for weight loss management (also prescribed for treating type 2 diabetes in the UK).
The results were remarkable, and Rachael lost 172lbs (12st 4lbs) in around 18 months, going from 22st 7lbs to 10st 3lbs.
'It changed the way my body and my brain worked,' she recalls. 'It shut off all the food noise, it helps with reward center regulation, and that's what really helped me along with helping my insulin resistance.'
What surprised Rachael the most though, was how quickly the medication and subsequent weight loss affected her reproductive health, even before significant weight loss occurred.
'My cycle went from 90 days to 30 days in the first two months on the medication,' she adds.
Just one month after reaching her maintenance weight, Rachael missed her period and discovered she was pregnant — without any fertility treatment whatsoever.
She adds: 'I was completely shocked. We still anticipated that at 41, I would have to go through fertility treatment in addition to losing weight. But without even really trying, we ended up pregnant.'
Today, Rachael and Brad are parents to seven-month-old Everett, a healthy baby boy.
'At the time, I didn't know the medication would help fertility, beyond the losing weight making it easier,' she says. 'But this was a happy surprise.'
Jason Murphy, prescribing lead at Chemist4U tells Metro that it's 'important to understand' that Mounjaro isn't a fertility treatment, adding: 'It helps by addressing the underlying issue – excess weight – that may be preventing conception.'
'It is important to note that Mounjaro should not be used during pregnancy or when actively trying to conceive,' Jason says.
'Women planning to start a family should discuss stopping the medication with their healthcare provider well before, as it's not well understood how the medicine can affect a growing baby.'
Dr Gareth Nye agrees, adding: 'It's also not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. This is because we do not have sufficient data on the potential danger to the growing baby.
'It is becoming clear that in women who are overweight, Mounjaro reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, particularly in the first four weeks after their first injection.'
Recently, there has been some evidence to suggest that Mounjaro, and other medications like it, can boost a woman's chance of getting pregnant.
Dr Gareth Nye, a lecturer at Salford University and an expert in maternal and foetal health, tells Metro that while 'most of the fertility improvements come from the weight loss directly', there are other ways that Mounjaro might support fertility.
He explains: 'Fat tissue produces a hormone known as leptin. This directly interacts with hormones from the brain which controls and regulates your menstrual cycles and ultimately your fertility.
'Women need some leptin in the system to allow for growth and development of the uterus but levels outside of the normal range, either too high or too low, will prevent menstrual cycles and limit fertility. PCOS sufferers will also have higher leptin levels than women who don't have the disease.
'Mounjaro will ultimately lead to a decrease in fat tissue and therefore a decrease in leptin signals which in some women will improve fertility.
'In addition, GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro have been show to improve egg ovulation.'
But while getting pregnant was exactly the outcome Rachael and Brad had hoped for, that's not the case for every woman using weight loss injections.
Earlier this month, the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) warned that weight loss jabs may make the contraceptive pill less affective. More Trending
The theory is that the pill isn't absorbed properly due to vomiting and diarrhoea, which is a common side effect of the medication. As such, the MHRA has advised that those using Mounjaro who are also on the pill (or who use other methods, such as the coil) should use condoms for four weeks after starting the drug.
Rachael hopes though, for the women who are do want to get pregnant, Mounjaro will become more readily available.
'I am forever grateful for the opportunity to be on this medication,' she says.
Follow Rachael on TikTok @mylittlelovenest.
Known as tirzepatide and marketed under the brand name Mounjaro, the drug injection helps people to manage blood sugar.
It works in a similar way to semaglutide – sold as Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus – which are in the same family of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist medications.
Administered by weekly injections, tirzepatide changes hormone levels in the body to slow down how fast food is digested.
This make you feel more full, for longer, on less food. Alongside healthy eating and exercise, this can help people lose weight.
Warning it is 'not a magic bullet', Dr Kath McCullough, NHS England's national speciality adviser for obesity, said: 'Weight loss drugs, such as tirzepatide, are an important tool in helping people lose weight while also reducing the risk of other serious long-term conditions such as diabetes, strokes and heart attacks.
'However, on their own, weight loss drugs are not a magic bullet.
'They need to be prescribed by a healthcare professional alongside programmes that help people lose weight and live healthier lives by making changes to their diet and physical activity – and it's also crucial that they are prioritised for those who need them most.'
Mounjaro can cause side effects like nausea, heartburn, constipation, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, gallstones, or inflammation of the gallbladder.
Affecting more than one in 10 people taking the drug, these side effects are usually mild and fade after a few weeks. They can increase with higher doses.
It has also been linked with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, experts warned.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
View More »
MORE: Inside the mind of a parent killer: 'I shouldn't have been part of that family'
MORE: Six UK companies that give dads 52 weeks paid paternity leave
MORE: A doctor said no one would ever love me – I proved him wrong
Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
11 hours ago
- Daily Mail
AMANDA PLATELL: It's not MY fault you're fat... so why should I pay for it?
Though the NHS is in crisis, with 7.4 million people still languishing on the waiting list for appointments and treatment, we are now told that fat-busting drugs such as Mounjaro will soon be as widely available as statins from your doctor, as accessible as a packet of Smarties for the overweight. Jolly good, but since nearly a third of the adult population are now considered obese there's one very big elephant in the room: the question of how much this will cost us taxpayers who do not happen to be fat.
Scottish Sun
12 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
The truth about why weight loss jabs are failing to work for thousands of Brits
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WEIGHT loss jabs have been a godsend for people in the UK living with obesity. But despite 1.5 million people using the weight loss medication in a single month, many users say they haven't seen the expected results from GLP-1 treatments. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 While weight loss plateaus are common, there are reasons weight loss jabs may not be working, with fixable solutions Credit: Getty Weight loss plateaus are common, but in many cases, the reasons are identifiable and fixable. To help those facing this challenge, experts at ZAVA have broken down the most common reasons the weight loss injection Mounjaro may not be working as expected - and what you can do to get back on track. 1. Incorrect medicine Mounjaro's effectiveness often increases as you move up the dosage ladder. The medication is introduced to the body slowly (titration) to reduce side effects, eventually reaching maintenance doses of up to 15mg per week. If you're still on a lower dose or haven't advanced as recommended, your weight loss may be limited. Consistency is crucial. Skipping doses, delaying titration, or not following your provider's schedule can reduce the medication's impact. Many people don't feel the full effect until eight to 12 weeks in, so patience and adherence are key. You should give Mounjaro at least three months before judging its effectiveness. If you're experiencing side effects, it's absolutely fine to remain at a lower dose for longer. The experts advise stepping up more slowly if you're not tolerating side effects well - there's no need to push through discomfort. Women taking fat jabs need 'effective contraception' - as health chiefs warn of serious harm to unborn babies You can always increase the dose later once your body has adjusted. Comfort and tolerability are just as important as consistency for long-term success. Poor diet and lack of exercise While Mounjaro helps reduce appetite, it doesn't override the fundamental rule of weight loss: you must burn more calories than you consume. Even with a smaller appetite, eating more than your body needs will still cause progress to stall. To maintain an effective calorie deficit for weight loss, men are generally advised to consume around 1,900 calories per day (down from the typical 2,500), while women should aim for about 1,400 calories per day (down from around 2,000). Healthy diet tips: Be strict with calorie tracking until portion control becomes second nature Aim for a 600-calorie daily deficit to lose weight steadily Prioritise whole foods over high-sugar, high-fat processed options Follow a diet plan tailored to your needs, and explore healthy recipe ideas to stay on track The experts say to also remember that initial weight loss may come from water, especially if you've reduced salt or started exercising. As your body adjusts, weight loss may temporarily plateau or appear to reverse. Finally, stay hydrated and limit alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with your metabolism and reduce the effectiveness of Mounjaro. 3. Stress and sleep issues 3 Not getting enough sleep could act as a major weight loss blocker Credit: Getty Chronic stress and poor sleep are major weight loss blockers. Stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to fat retention, especially around the abdomen. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (fullness hormone), making you more likely to overeat and less likely to move. You're also more impulsive and less motivated when sleep-deprived, making it harder to stick to your diet and exercise routine. As a solution, the experts say to prioritise stress management techniques (like mindfulness or journaling), and aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. 4. Health conditions and medications Medical issues such as PCOS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance can all interfere with weight loss. Similarly, certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may cause weight gain or inhibit fat loss. If weight loss stalls despite doing everything right, consult your GP to rule out or address any underlying conditions. If you have a known medical condition, it's important to stay up to date with your routine reviews and inform your GP or specialist about any weight loss treatments you're using. The experts advise regular follow-up helps ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. 5. Unrealistic expectations 3 It's important to remember weight is a long-term process Credit: Getty It's natural to hope for rapid results, especially with a promising medication like Mounjaro. But weight loss is a long-term process. Initial drops (often water weight) can be misleading. Progress will slow, and that's okay. Avoid comparing yourself to others or obsessively checking the scale, say the experts. Focus on consistency, not speed. Your journey is unique, and sustainable weight loss takes time. 6. Lack of support Motivation by itself often isn't enough. Without support from those who understand your goals, the journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. The experts recommend: Lean on friends and family who encourage you Join online communities or local support groups, including NHS-recommended programs Consider working with a dietitian or coach for personalised guidance and accountability How to boost weight loss on Mounjaro, according to a doctor Dr Crystal Wyllie, a qualified and UK registered doctor who is part of the clinical team at Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA, says while Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point. She advises: "To enhance your results, it's important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits. "However, if you're experiencing side effects, it's perfectly acceptable to step up more slowly. "Your GP may recommend staying on a lower dose for longer until your body adjusts, comfort and tolerability should always guide the pace of titration." Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a vital role in supporting your weight loss journey, says Dr Wyllie. She adds: "If progress stalls despite these efforts, consulting your healthcare provider is essential to evaluate your plan and make necessary adjustments." For individuals who find Mounjaro less effective or unsuitable, there are several other weight loss medications to consider. Dr Wyllie recommends: "Injectable options like Wegovy and Nevolat work similarly by curbing appetite, while oral medications such as Orlistat, Xenical, and the over-the-counter Alli provide different mechanisms to support weight loss. "Each treatment has unique advantages and considerations, so working closely with your doctor ensures you receive the safest and most personalised approach to achieve your goals.' Before beginning any weight loss treatment, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone.
The Sun
12 hours ago
- The Sun
The truth about why weight loss jabs are failing to work for thousands of Brits
WEIGHT loss jabs have been a godsend for people in the UK living with obesity. But despite 1.5 million people using the weight loss medication in a single month, many users say they haven't seen the expected results from GLP-1 treatments. 3 Weight loss plateaus are common, but in many cases, the reasons are identifiable and fixable. To help those facing this challenge, experts at ZAVA have broken down the most common reasons the weight loss injection Mounjaro may not be working as expected - and what you can do to get back on track. 1. Incorrect medicine Mounjaro's effectiveness often increases as you move up the dosage ladder. The medication is introduced to the body slowly (titration) to reduce side effects, eventually reaching maintenance doses of up to 15mg per week. If you're still on a lower dose or haven't advanced as recommended, your weight loss may be limited. Consistency is crucial. Skipping doses, delaying titration, or not following your provider's schedule can reduce the medication's impact. Many people don't feel the full effect until eight to 12 weeks in, so patience and adherence are key. You should give Mounjaro at least three months before judging its effectiveness. If you're experiencing side effects, it's absolutely fine to remain at a lower dose for longer. The experts advise stepping up more slowly if you're not tolerating side effects well - there's no need to push through discomfort. Women taking fat jabs need 'effective contraception' - as health chiefs warn of serious harm to unborn babies You can always increase the dose later once your body has adjusted. Comfort and tolerability are just as important as consistency for long-term success. Poor diet and lack of exercise While Mounjaro helps reduce appetite, it doesn't override the fundamental rule of weight loss: you must burn more calories than you consume. Even with a smaller appetite, eating more than your body needs will still cause progress to stall. To maintain an effective calorie deficit for weight loss, men are generally advised to consume around 1,900 calories per day (down from the typical 2,500), while women should aim for about 1,400 calories per day (down from around 2,000). Healthy diet tips: Be strict with calorie tracking until portion control becomes second nature Aim for a 600-calorie daily deficit to lose weight steadily Prioritise whole foods over high-sugar, high-fat processed options Follow a diet plan tailored to your needs, and explore healthy recipe ideas to stay on track The experts say to also remember that initial weight loss may come from water, especially if you've reduced salt or started exercising. As your body adjusts, weight loss may temporarily plateau or appear to reverse. Finally, stay hydrated and limit alcohol. Alcohol can interfere with your metabolism and reduce the effectiveness of Mounjaro. 3. Stress and sleep issues 3 Chronic stress and poor sleep are major weight loss blockers. Stress increases cortisol, a hormone linked to fat retention, especially around the abdomen. Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and decreases leptin (fullness hormone), making you more likely to overeat and less likely to move. You're also more impulsive and less motivated when sleep-deprived, making it harder to stick to your diet and exercise routine. As a solution, the experts say to prioritise stress management techniques (like mindfulness or journaling), and aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. 4. Health conditions and medications Medical issues such as PCOS, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance can all interfere with weight loss. Similarly, certain medications (like antidepressants or steroids) may cause weight gain or inhibit fat loss. If weight loss stalls despite doing everything right, consult your GP to rule out or address any underlying conditions. If you have a known medical condition, it's important to stay up to date with your routine reviews and inform your GP or specialist about any weight loss treatments you're using. The experts advise regular follow-up helps ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. 5. Unrealistic expectations 3 It's natural to hope for rapid results, especially with a promising medication like Mounjaro. But weight loss is a long-term process. Initial drops (often water weight) can be misleading. Progress will slow, and that's okay. Avoid comparing yourself to others or obsessively checking the scale, say the experts. Focus on consistency, not speed. Your journey is unique, and sustainable weight loss takes time. 6. Lack of support Motivation by itself often isn't enough. Without support from those who understand your goals, the journey can feel lonely and overwhelming. The experts recommend: Lean on friends and family who encourage you Join online communities or local support groups, including NHS-recommended programs Consider working with a dietitian or coach for personalised guidance and accountability How to boost weight loss on Mounjaro, according to a doctor Dr Crystal Wyllie, a qualified and UK registered doctor who is part of the clinical team at Asda Online Doctor by ZAVA, says while Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, it's normal to encounter a plateau at some point. She advises: "To enhance your results, it's important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits. "However, if you're experiencing side effects, it's perfectly acceptable to step up more slowly. "Your GP may recommend staying on a lower dose for longer until your body adjusts, comfort and tolerability should always guide the pace of titration." Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a vital role in supporting your weight loss journey, says Dr Wyllie. She adds: "If progress stalls despite these efforts, consulting your healthcare provider is essential to evaluate your plan and make necessary adjustments." For individuals who find Mounjaro less effective or unsuitable, there are several other weight loss medications to consider. Dr Wyllie recommends: "Injectable options like Wegovy and Nevolat work similarly by curbing appetite, while oral medications such as Orlistat, Xenical, and the over-the-counter Alli provide different mechanisms to support weight loss. "Each treatment has unique advantages and considerations, so working closely with your doctor ensures you receive the safest and most personalised approach to achieve your goals.' Before beginning any weight loss treatment, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. These treatments may not be suitable for everyone.
