Over recent months, I’ve had many women reach out to ask me about weight loss injections — medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. The appeal is understandable: quick results, reduced appetite, and significant weight loss are all being heavily promoted. And yes, they do work for many people. But I also believe we need to approach this topic with care, compassion, and clarity.
Because behind the headlines and before-and-after photos lies a deeper question:
Are we truly informed, or just being swept along by the next big thing?
What Are These Injections?
These medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists — originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes. Over time, it was discovered that they also reduce appetite, slow digestion, and help people lose weight. They’ve since been approved for weight management in people with certain health criteria.
Research shows that:
- People using semaglutide (Wegovy) lost around 15% of their body weight over just over a year.
- People using tirzepatide (Mounjaro) lost up to 22.5% of their weight in some studies.
These are significant numbers — especially for those who have struggled with weight loss for years.
But What About the Risks?
Like any medication, these injections come with side effects. Common ones include nausea, constipation, vomiting, and fatigue. There are also more serious risks like:
- Gallbladder issues
- Pancreatitis
- Potential thyroid concerns (found in animal studies)
- Mental health impacts from rapid weight loss or body image shifts
And then there’s the reality that most people regain the weight when they stop taking the medication. It’s not a cure — it’s a tool, and one that usually needs to be used long-term to maintain results.
What Gets Missed in the Weight Loss Conversation
Weight is never just about food or willpower. For so many women, it’s tied into a complex mix of:
- Hormonal changes (like perimenopause or thyroid dysfunction)
- Past trauma or emotional eating
- Stress, sleep, and burnout
- Disordered eating patterns or diet history
- Societal pressure and internalised shame
No injection can heal those wounds — and in fact, if we don’t address them gently, weight loss might bring more emotional turmoil rather than less.
So What’s the Alternative?
This isn’t about saying no to weight loss injections — but rather about saying yes to informed, empowered choices. It’s OK to be curious. It’s OK to want change. It’s OK to explore all the options. But let’s do it with full knowledge and deep self-kindness.
If you’re considering weight loss medication, ask yourself:
- What am I hoping this will give me (beyond weight loss)?
- Have I addressed the root causes of my weight changes?
- Do I feel safe, supported, and clear about the risks?
- What else could I bring into my life that supports long-term health and confidence?
You are worthy of feeling good in your body — not because of the number on the scale, but because your wellbeing matters. Whatever path you choose, you deserve support that sees all of you — body, mind, and spirit.
If you’d like to talk about gentle, realistic ways to feel more connected to your body through movement, nutrition, breathwork or holistic therapies, I’m always here. This conversation is too important to rush.
With love and understanding,
Nina xx
