Tirzepatide after pregnancy – my top questions and what happens, when

Pregnancy, childbirth and feeding your baby – whatever your own journey looks like – is a profound experience. As the dust settles and you step back, you’re getting to know a very different version of you. At least I am, almost ten years into meeting my fertility, pregnancy, birth and postpartum self.

I’m not at all afraid to be vulnerable here. I’ve had a deeply positive but challenging journey to parenthood. And for me, the way I feel in my body now – and yes, what I see in the mirror – isn’t just a version of myself that’s been through a lot. I’d say I’m in real survival mode, and postpartum weight gain has been a slowly increasing part of that picture. 

My starting point

After my IVF journey last summer, I became pregnant with my fourth and fifth children. Now, a good stretch after giving birth to my second set of twins (yep!), I’m dealing with sleep deprivation, fatigue, and the usual postpartum struggles. For me, it’s not just about losing weight – it’s about getting my energy back, feeling good in my body, and finding that balance as I approach my 40s.

With all of this in mind, and having tried various postpartum weight loss plans in the past, I’m super-excited to begin weight loss therapy with Joi Women’s Wellness, starting with the GLP-1 medication tirzepatide.

I’ve stopped breastfeeding (after a feeding journey spanning seven years in total) and it feels like just the right time to put the focus on me, and how I feel in my body going into my 40s, now at age 39. Back at work, and as a super-busy mum of five young children, I need to be feeling and operating at my best.

Could this be a turning point? I’ll let you know in six months, but I really hope so.

Looking for the Joi discount code? TRB readers get 20% off their first purchase site-wide with Joi Women’s Wellness – just use code THERIBBONBOX at checkout. 

Is it harder to lose weight after a c-section?

Having had two c-sections, Eloise wondered if it would be more challenging to lose weight postpartum. 

And really, this is a very individualized timeframe. While some women find that the recovery process and physical changes from a c-section can slow down weight loss, it’s not an impossible task. 

The key is to be patient with your body and allow it to heal. Incorporating gentle exercise and gradually increasing intensity as your body allows can help. Remember, every body is different, and your journey is unique to you.

Can you take weight loss medication while breastfeeding?

The answer here is no. GLP-1 medications are not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential risks to the baby – too little is known still about how and whether a medication like tirzepatide might affect the content of a nursing mom’s breast milk. 

Pumping and discarding milk is an option if you’re transitioning off breastfeeding, but active breastfeeding while on these medications is not advisable. If you’re still nursing, it’s essential to explore other safe weight loss options until you’re ready to wean.

Managing GLP-1 side effects postpartum

A common concern with GLP-1 medications is the potential for side effects, such as nausea and constipation. These issues can be minimized by starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it. Proper hydration and a balanced diet are also crucial – keep reading, we get into these in more detail further on. 

If you’re struggling with constipation, focusing on high-fiber foods, staying well-hydrated, and incorporating light exercise can help. And remember, it’s essential to listen to your body – if side effects become unmanageable, talk to your provider about adjusting your dose.

The importance of diet while on tirzepatide

The crucial aspect here is that you do still need to eat, while taking tirzepatide. 

People do feel better energy-wise, because blood sugar in particular is regulated so well on tirzepatide, but nonetheless you do still need to eat – particularly protein. A bare minimum of 100g per day – that’s a non-negotiable amount – and 125g would be optimal. 

Focus on great quality proteins during this time, like grass-fed beef from a regenerative farmer (probably one of the most nutritious forms of protein you can eat). Other great choices could be: 

• eggs – less expensive, but remember two eggs give you around 12g protein
• Greek yogurt – (I go for fat free or low fat and add a scoop of protein powder)
• chicken – ideally organic, free-range (the meat and seafood delivery options from Butcher Box are my go-to for great sourcing)

Hydration is also super-important – always, but particularly while taking tirzepatide. It will help decrease constipation, keep energy levels stable and electrolytes in balance. I also like to supplement electrolytes at this time – LMNT are fantastic for the best flavor options and cleanest ingredients. Steer clear of liquid IVs, which are difficult to regulate and not always the cleanest option, ingredient-wise. 

Remember, it’s not just about the number. Where do you feel good? It’s about how you feel in your clothes – this changes your confidence, and in turn boosts your motivation – it’s a spin off of positives.

Think fat loss, not muscle

If it fits into your budget, a bathroom or home scale which estimates your body fat and muscle percentage can be helpful. Eloise mentioned she’s quite recently finished breastfeeding, and at this time your body is very much still adjusting, postpartum. 

But if you can, keep an eye on that muscle loss versus fat loss. GLP-1 medications can cause ‘global’ weight loss, meaning both fat and muscle. And the best way to tip the scales towards fat loss – which is the goal, here – is by making sure you’re hitting your protein goals, and building in some strength training (as soon as you have the energy!)

Don’t feel like you have to go to the gym and start lifting loads of weights – you can start with body weight resistance exercises (Peloton have some great ones), and aim for at least three times a week.

A note on sleep

Sleep is so important for energy, weight management, blood sugar regulation – all of these are so interconnected, and a key factor in supporting your success.

In Eloise’s case, with newborn twins and three older children, sleep is going to be a little bumpy right now. I’m sure many, many postpartum mamas will resonate with this state of play, and that’s okay! 

Ideally, to get the best results from your tirzepatide plan and dosage, sleep quality will be a focus. And bar illness, kids keeping you up at night, shift patterns and so on, if you’re able to make sleep a priority, it will show in your results.

Dosage

At Joi, we always start on a low dose. If you’re seeing favorable changes – reduced cravings, for example – and still have an appetite, then great. That dose should be good for you, and where you’re at. It’s important not to feel like you have to keep upping the dose, to see dramatic results. 

Again, you have to be able to eat – you need to keep an appetite. And ideally, you don’t have a lot of nausea or constipation. Upping the dose can drive these symptoms, so always discuss with one of the team at Joi. Slowly but surely is the approach, here!

Avoiding side effects

If you’re dosing appropriately and not losing weight too rapidly – listening to your body is crucial – then side effects should be minimal. 

Again, focus on keeping yourself healthy, supporting your weight loss with good hydration, nutrition and the other factors we’ve covered. If you’re just focusing on that number on the scale, side effects can be a problem. 

I really recommend Dr Tyna Moore’s content, focused on building resilient health, particularly while taking GLP-1s for sustained, healthy weight loss. From articles to podcasts and YouTube content, she’s created a fantastic library of support.

When will you see results?

Eloise’s goal is to lose 30-40 pounds in total. And on average, I only like people taking tirzepatide to lose around 1 pound a week. You may see that come out a little higher at the start of taking a GLP-1, but you ideally want your weight loss to slow down to around 1 pound a week. 

This is because faster weight loss often translates to gaining the weight back when you stop taking your GLP-1. Some people stay on GLP-1 – at a micro dose – long term – they may simply feel better on it, which is fine. It really does reduce a lot of inflammation, and keeps insulin in check. 

To lose around 30-40 pounds on tirzepatide, you’re looking at around 6 months in total, to see those results.

Why is tirzepatide not working for me?

This could be due to various factors. Dosage adjustments are common, especially if cravings start to return or weight loss slows down. However, it’s crucial not to rush into increasing your dose too quickly, as this can exacerbate side effects like nausea or constipation. 

Ensure that you’re supporting your weight loss journey with proper nutrition, hydration, and exercise. If you’re still struggling, discuss your concerns with your provider – they may recommend a dosage adjustment or explore other contributing factors.

Starting weight loss therapy with Joi Women’s Wellness is – so far – a turn key in my postpartum recovery, now after several rounds of IVF, and my family complete. 

With the team at Joi’s support and a focus on sustainable habits, I’m on track to reach my goals. It’s not just about shedding pounds – it’s about regaining energy, feeling confident, and taking control of my health. I can’t wait for my journey to unfold, and have a pin in the schedule to report back to the community at TRB with my results in a few months time. 

Considering GLP-1 therapy postpartum? TRB readers save 20% on their first purchase site-wide with Joi Women’s Wellness – just use code THERIBBONBOX at checkout. 

Make sure to consult with an expert professional provider, and tailor the approach to your unique needs.