Starting Wegovy (Semaglutide) can bring noticeable changes to your digestion. One side effect some people experience is bloating — that uncomfortable feeling of fullness, tightness, or swelling in the stomach.
While it can be frustrating, there are ways to manage it, so it doesn’t disrupt your day-to-day life. This blog explains why bloating can occur on Wegovy and offers practical strategies to help ease it.
Why does bloating happen?
Bloating happens when your stomach feels unusually full or stretched. You may notice:
- A sensation of pressure or heaviness in the abdomen
- Trapped wind or belching
- Visible swelling in the stomach area
It can be caused by a variety of factors, including eating quickly, swallowing air, certain foods, or underlying digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although usually harmless, bloating can affect appetite, energy, and general comfort.
Why Wegovy can cause bloating?
Some people taking Wegovy experience bloating because Semaglutide (the ingredient in Wegovy) slows the rate at which the stomach empties. When digestion is slower, gas and fluids can build up, leading to that bloated, uncomfortable feeling.
Additionally, reduced appetite and smaller portion sizes may alter how your digestive system responds, sometimes causing temporary discomfort as your body adjusts to the medication.
For many, this side effect eases over time. If bloating persists or becomes more severe, it’s important to speak with your GP or prescribing Phlo Pharmacist.
Tips to Reduce Bloating on Wegovy
Here are some practical steps to help manage bloating while continuing treatment:
- Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals – Try having several small portions rather than three large meals to reduce pressure on your stomach.
- Stay Hydrated – Drinking water throughout the day supports digestion and can help prevent bloating. Aim for 2–3 litres daily, sipping regularly rather than in large amounts at once.
- Keep Active – Gentle exercise such as walking, stretching, or yoga can aid digestion and reduce trapped wind.
- Identify Trigger Foods – Fizzy drinks, meals high in fat, and certain vegetables (such as beans, cabbage, or broccoli) may worsen bloating for some people.
- Eat Slowly – Taking your time and chewing food thoroughly reduces swallowed air and may ease bloating.
If bloating continues or becomes uncomfortable, you can contact your Phlo Clinic Pharmacist who can review your dose or offer personalised advice.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Although mild bloating is usually not serious, contact a healthcare professional if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening abdominal discomfort
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Significant changes in bowel habits
- Rapid or unexplained weight loss
Bloating on Wegovy is a common, often temporary, side effect. Simple adjustments such as smaller meals, staying hydrated, gentle exercise, and avoiding trigger foods can make a real difference.
Remember, our team can provide guidance and support to help you continue treatment comfortably.
