Social media has been abuzz with concerns about “Ozempic vulva,” a condition seemingly affecting women trying to lose weight with GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide. According to many reports, the usage of such drugs may cause “rare” side effects like changes in the labia, along with dryness or even urinary incontinence. But what exactly is it?
“While these medications can help shed significant weight, some women have reported a troubling and less-discussed side effect, now colloquially referred to as ‘Ozempic vulva or Ozempic vagina’,” said Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic physician, Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic in New Delhi’s Rajouri Garden.
Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology and weight loss expert, Zandra Healthcare and co-founder, Rang De Neela Initiative, stressed the need to address these claims with science and clarity.
“Weight loss through GLP-1 therapy leads to a reduction of fat in multiple areas of the body, which may change physical contours, but there is no medical evidence to support that this causes pathological drooping of the labia. On the contrary, obesity is a well-known risk factor for urinary incontinence, and weight reduction, whether through lifestyle, surgery, or medications like semaglutide, has been consistently shown to improve bladder control,” said Dr Kovil.
Many of my patients report better mobility, confidence, and sexual satisfaction after weight loss, he said. “As for dryness, there is no current evidence directly linking semaglutide to vaginal dryness. Hydration, hormonal status, and menopausal changes remain the primary factors influencing this,” said Dr Kovil.
Notably, Dr Malhotra said the vulva is composed of fatty tissue, and when this volume decreases rapidly, it may give a hollowed or aged appearance. For many women, this leads to a mismatch between their slimmer body and the way their intimate area looks, said Dr Malhotra.
Why should you be concerned? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
According to Dr Shobha Gupta, medical director and gynaecologist, Mother’s Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi and founder, Mumma’s Blessing IVF and Birthing Paradise in Vrindavan, changes in the vulva may not just be cosmetic. “Loss of fatty padding in the vulva can sometimes lead to discomfort, increased sensitivity, or even pain during physical activities and intimacy,” she said.
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Dr Gupta emphasised that the vulvar tissues are hormonally sensitive, and significant weight changes can alter the balance of estrogen and fatty tissue support. This may sometimes result in dryness, irritation, or a higher risk of infections due to friction, said Dr Gupta.
Additionally, common side effects like nausea and appetite suppression can lead to severely reduced food intake and nutrient deficiencies—iron, B12, and essential fats—that are critical for tissue, skin, and mucosal health, said Dr Rajeshwari Panda, head of the dietetics Department, Medicover Hospital, Kharghar Navi Mumbai.
These risks are heightened when Ozempic is used without proper medical and nutritional guidance, contended Dr Panda. “The drug should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Patients need regular monitoring to ensure that muscle mass, hydration, and micronutrient needs are being met,” said Dr Panda.
What women should note?
*Speed matters: Rapid weight loss is more likely to cause skin laxity than gradual, sustainable weight loss, said Dr Gupta.
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*Corrective treatments exist: Aesthetic options (fillers, PRP, radio frequency) and medical support (lubricants, hormonal balance if required) can help, said Dr Malhotra.
*Holistic care is important: Weight loss journeys should include skin care, hydration, and pelvic health awareness. “Focusing solely on weight loss without addressing whole-body health—especially in women—can lead to long-term harm. A medication like Ozempic should never replace sustainable, evidence-based approaches to health and nutrition,” said Dr Panda.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
