Wegovy constipation explained: What causes it and how to find relief

For women seeking long-term weight loss, Wegovy has been a game-changer. From reducing cravings to supporting sustainable fat loss, it's opened a path for women who felt like they'd tried everything. But like any medication, it can come with a few bumps along the way, and constipation is one of the most common.

If you're feeling a little more backed up than usual since starting Wegovy, you're not alone. Constipation is one of the most common side effects of Wegovy and other weight loss medications, particularly during the early stages of treatment. However, the good news is that there are ways to manage it (and it doesn't mean the medication isn't working).

Let's break down why it happens, what to expect, and how to feel more comfortable while staying on track with your weight loss journey.

What is Wegovy and how does it work?

Wegovy is a once-weekly injection designed to help with long-term weight management. Its active ingredient is semaglutide. It mimics a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite, slows digestion, and helps you feel fuller for longer [1].

By reducing cravings and supporting a calorie deficit, Wegovy helps many women lose significant body weight over time, up to 15% in clinical trials when combined with healthy lifestyle habits [2]. And when it's part of Juniper's Weight Reset Programme, outcomes can be even better.

In addition to supporting weight loss, it can improve blood sugar control, which lowers the risk of heart disease and related medical conditions.

Is constipation a common side effect of Wegovy?

Yes, and it's nothing to be embarrassed about. Constipation is one of the most frequently reported side effects of Wegovy, especially in the first few weeks of treatment. In clinical trials, around 24% of participants experience constipation [3].

While uncomfortable, this side effect is usually temporary and tends to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Some women may notice digestive changes only at higher doses, while others might feel the effects from the start.

Other commonly reported gastrointestinal adverse events include nausea, diarrhoea, and mild abdominal pain [3].

Why Wegovy can cause constipation

Wegovy slows down how quickly food moves through your digestive system, which is part of how it helps you feel fuller for longer [4]. But this slower digestion can also lead to firmer, less frequent stools.

Other possible causes of Wegovy-related constipation include [5]:

• Reduced appetite can lead to eating less, which in turn results in less waste to pass
• Not drinking enough water (especially when appetite is low)
• Eating fewer fibrous foods like fruits, veg, and wholegrains
• Less physical activity or changes to routine

It's a bit of a domino effect, but fortunately, there are ways to reset your system without needing to stop the medication.

Patients with health conditions like thyroid gland disorders or gallbladder problems may have an increased risk of digestive discomfort, including severe abdominal pain [8]. It is best to discuss these conditions with your prescriber to ensure you are eligible for Wegovy treatment.

How long does constipation last on Wegovy?

For most people, constipation improves within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication. That said, it can come and go depending on your hydration levels, fibre intake, dosage, and lifestyle habits.

If you’re experiencing constipation that lasts longer than a few weeks or becomes difficult to manage, speak to your prescriber, as there may be simple ways to relieve it without disrupting your treatment.

How to relieve Wegovy constipation

The goal is to continue taking Wegovy while making small, sustainable changes to improve your digestive health and relieve constipation.

Lifestyle and dietary tips

Start with the basics. These changes may seem small, but they are often most effective:

• Drink more water: Aim for 6-8 glasses a day to keep everything moving [6]
• Eat more fibre: Add more fruits, vegetables, oats, legumes and whole grains
• Move more: Gentle daily movement like walking, stretching or yoga can help stimulate digestion
• Don't skip meals: Regular eating can keep your gut active, even if you're not hungry
• Monitor your stress: Stress can impact digestion, so try to use mindfulness, breathwork or journaling to help [7]

Try increasing fibre gradually to avoid bloating, and pair it with hydration for best results.

Over-the-counter options

If dietary changes aren't quite doing the job, short-term use of gentle remedies can help.

• Bulk-forming laxatives (like Fybogel or ispaghula husk) increase stool size and soften texture
• Osmotic laxatives (like Lactulose or Movicol) draw water into the bowel to help things move
• Stool softeners (like Docusate Sodium) can relieve discomfort from hard stools

Always follow the label and check with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist, especially if you're taking other medications.

When to speak to your doctor

Constipation is usually mild and manageable, but there are times when it's worth seeking medical advice. Speak to your doctor if you experience:

• Constipation that lasts longer than a few weeks
• Severe pain, bloating, or cramping
• Nausea, vomiting, or difficulty eating
• No bowel movement for over a week
• Rectal bleeding or unexplained weight loss

Your provider may recommend a temporary dose reduction or explore other options to help ease symptoms without disrupting your weight loss progress.

In rare cases, constipation may signal a more serious side effect of Wegovy. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or intense pain — these could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Does Wegovy constipation signal progress?

It might sound strange, but some experts believe constipation could be a sign that Wegovy is doing its job.

Because the medication slows digestion and reduces appetite, less food is being consumed, and less waste is being produced. This reduced volume, combined with slower gut movement, can naturally result in fewer or firmer stools.

So while it's not exactly a pleasant side effect, it may also be a subtle sign that your body is adjusting and shifting into fat-burning mode.

Juniper supports you through every step

Managing side effects like constipation is just one part of the bigger picture. That's why our program is designed to go beyond just medication; it's about creating a weight loss plan that works for real life.

Juniper's Weight Loss Reset Programme combines weight loss medication with dietitian-led health coaching and tracking, so you can lose weight and reach your goals for good.

Kickstart your weight loss journey with Wegovy or Mounjaro, two groundbreaking weight loss medications that mimic the GLP-1 and GIP hormones, respectively, to help control cravings, delay stomach emptying, and keep you feeling fuller for longer. These clinically backed treatments help members experience up to 20% body weight loss.

Plus, we have a team of expert dietitians and health coaches you can consult with to help you work through any challenges you're experiencing during your weight management journey. This approach sets you up for sustained weight loss, rather than a quick-fix solution.

This means you can continue to enjoy the things you love in moderation without ever feeling deprived.

Ready to see if Juniper is right for you? You can check your eligibility here.

With the right support, Wegovy can help you lose weight, feel better, and stay regular, all at once.

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