The unexpected ways weight-loss medications are affecting marriages.

When Jeanne* started taking weight-loss medication, she expected physical changes. What she didn't expect was the profound impact it would have on her 15-year marriage.

Everything shifted, she told The New York Times. Not just her body, but her whole relationship dynamic. And the changes weren't subtle.

While Jeanne and her husband Javier* had always been "the life of the party," she found herself becoming more withdrawn. And their once-comfortable dynamic began to crack.

"I used to love feeling her body next to me in bed, the softness of it," Javier shared. "The extra tummy and extra booty was comforting and reassuring."

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But as her body changed, so did their relationship.

"I don't recognise you. I need a road map," Javier admitted, struggling with the transformation. "I think she's become a different person."

As she shared in the interview, the tension became palpable. Their fights grew more frequent, and underlying insecurities bubbled to the surface. Jeanne revealed that her bigger body had given her husband "a sense of security," noting, "He was like: 'Cool. She's not going to leave me.'"

Now, she's grappling with the unexpected emotional fallout. "I don't want to continue to be angry to the point where it damages our relationship."

Jeanne and Javier aren't alone in navigating these uncharted waters. As weight-loss medications become increasingly common in Australia, relationship experts are noticing an interesting pattern: these drugs aren't just changing bodies — they're changing relationships too.

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Clinical psychologist Carly Dober from Enriching Lives Psychology said the effects of weight-loss medications on relationships aren't one-size-fits-all.

"There can be many different changes," she explained. "Some people become fixated unhealthily on the number on the scale and then have less time for their partner as they engage in obsessive exercise and other extreme behaviours."

This obsession, she noted, can impact mood, libido and energy levels — all crucial components of a healthy relationship.

"But it's not all negative", Dober added. "Some people become very happy and confident, which can influence the relationship dynamic very positively. There's a range of experiences — some positive, some negative, and some neutral."

When weight loss leads to relationship changes.

Perhaps surprisingly, research suggests weight loss can sometimes lead to relationship instability and even divorce.

But why?

"Weight loss can often bring body image and confidence issues to the surface," Dober explained. "Some people might retrospectively look back at their relationship and notice they were belittled or not treated well, particularly if their partner suddenly treats them differently after weight loss."

This revelation, Dober said, can be particularly confronting. "It makes people question: 'Why wasn't I treated this way before? Was I only valuable once I lost weight?'"

One of the most significant impacts? How people see themselves.

"Self-identity can be shaped by how we're treated by people around us and broader society," Dober noted. "Weight loss can positively impact self-esteem when people feel they're adhering to traditional beauty standards."

However, this can create new anxieties. "Often, people who lose a significant amount of weight become scared to return to their former shape. This fear can become a sticky point in relationships if their self-esteem isn't also supported emotionally."

According to Dober, power dynamics can also be particularly challenging when it comes to the shift in relationships.

"In healthy relationships, power is shared and partners who lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way are supported and championed," Dober explained. "But in unhealthy relationship dynamics, weight loss can be weaponised — partners might feel threatened or use subtle tactics to control their partner's weight journey."

Another common challenge? Outside attention.

"Some couples struggle when one or both parties suddenly gain more romantic or sexual interest from others," Dober said. "This can trigger jealousy, resentment or feelings of self-consciousness."

The bedroom impact.

Then, there's sex. Beacause these medications can affect that too.

"Some people's sex drives are impacted by weight-loss drugs," Dober noted. "But this can also be influenced by general life stress or anxiety about body shape."

However, it's not all bad news. "Some people's libidos and sex lives increase dramatically after starting weight-loss medication. They report feeling more confident being naked or trying different positions they might not have felt comfortable with before."

So how can couples prepare for these changes? Well, as Dober emphasised, open communication is of extreme importance.

"Understand that weight and body shape can mean very different things for different people," she told Mamamia. "I encourage couples to talk about any concerns and anxieties they might have."

She also recommended regular check-ins and seeking support when needed. "Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals if either partner is struggling."

The bottom line? Weight-loss medications are powerful tools that can bring positive changes. But like any significant life change, they can impact relationships in unexpected ways.

The key is understanding that it's not just about physical transformation — it's about navigating the emotional journey together.

*Names have been changed for privacy.

If you're considering weight-loss medication or experiencing relationship challenges, speak with your GP or a mental health professional.

What are your thoughts on the above? Can you relate? Share with us in the comment section below.

Feature image: Getty.