27/05/2026
🌟GLP-1 Medications: What Women Need to Know
I recently attended an evening lecture by Dr Isobelle Smith, Consultant Physician in Endocrinology &
Metabolism, on “GLP-1 medications – What Physiotherapists Need to Know.”
There’s a lot of conversation online about these medications right now.
Here are a few takeaway points.
GLP-1 medications are not designed to be a quick-fix crash diet. They are a tool to support long-term
healthy behaviour change and should be combined with appropriate nutrition and exercise.
These medications work in several ways, including:
🌿 Slowing gastric emptying
🌿 Helping people feel fuller and more satisfied
🌿 Improving blood sugar stability
🌿 Reducing cravings and binge-eating tendencies
🌿 Supporting improvements in fatty liver disease and cardiovascular events
🌿 Possible anti-inflammatory effects, including potential benefits in the endometriosis
space.
Weight loss can lead to improved fertility for some women. It’s currently recommended that GLP1 medications are stopped at least 2 months before trying to conceive.
An important discussion point was the impact of rapid weight loss on muscle and bone mass.
As physios, we know how important strength training is — particularly for women across all life
stages. Resistance training 2–3 times per week, alongside adequate protein intake, can help support
muscle and bone health.
Have questions about exercise while on weight-loss medication, resistance training, or exercising
safely with pelvic floor concerns? Feel free to reach out.