GLP-1 drugs show early promise for improving fertility in males and females

• An early analysis from the ongoing RESTORE trial suggests semaglutide may improve fertility-related outcomes in females with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as PCOS.
• A review also suggests that GLP-1 drugs may support male reproductive health in those with obesity by improving testosterone levels, reproductive hormones, and sperm quality while also improving metabolic health.
• The findings support the idea that treating obesity and metabolic dysfunction with GLP-1 drugs could help restore hormonal balance and reproductive function in both women and men. However, larger, longer-term studies are necessary to confirm these effects.

Fertility is closely linked to metabolic health, with obesity being a significant factor that can negatively affect reproductive function in both males and females.

Having overweight or obesity can contribute to hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and altered reproductive hormone signaling, all of which may impair fertility.

In females, obesity is often associated with conditions such as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly knows as PCOS, while in males, it can reduce testosterone levels and adversely affect sperm quality.

Thus, lifestyle changes, such as adopting balanced dietary plans, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help enhance reproductive outcomes and support fertility.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy, which contain the active ingredient semaglutide, are a class of medications widely used for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Now, emerging research suggests these medications may also have positive effects on reproductive health. Two studies indicate that GLP-1 drugs may offer reproductive benefits, in addition to supporting weight loss and metabolic health.

Firstly, an analysis published in Fertility and Sterility found potential improvements in fertility-related outcomes among women with PMOS.

Secondly, a review of clinical trials presented at ENDO 2026 — which is yet to appear in a peer-reviewed journal — found that GLP-1 drugs may improve testosterone levels and sperm quality in some men with obesity.

While the findings add to growing interest in the relationship between metabolic health, weight management, and reproductive function, the study authors advise caution and note that further research is necessary to investigate this association.