It’s inevitable to need to take one medication or another from time to time. But did you know that some medications directly impact male fertility? It’s true! You could be affecting your own fertility without even knowing it! To keep you informed, we’re going to introduce you to some medications that might interfere with your dream of getting pregnant.

Some medications can affect male fertility.
  • Antibiotics

    Some antibiotics can impact male fertility if used for long periods. Antibiotics like amoxicillin can affect sperm motility and morphology, and even damage their DNA.

    These effects usually disappear a few months after stopping the medication.

    Men planning to have children during this time should ask their doctor for an antibiotic that does not affect fertility.

  • Alpha blockers

    These medications are commonly used to treat systemic arterial hypertension and urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate.

    The negative effects on fertility depend on which medication is used. They can greatly reduce the amount of semen or even completely stop ejaculation.

    If these medications are used to treat urinary problems in men who are trying to have children, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor to discuss alternatives.

  • Ketoconazole
    This antifungal is well known as a treatment for conditions such as candidiasis. When used as a cream, it poses no risk to fertility. However, when taken orally, it can impair testosterone production and decrease sperm production.
  • Spironolactone
    Spironolactone is an antihypertensive and diuretic, typically used to treat high blood pressure with unknown cause and edema.

    Although this is not its primary use, spironolactone has antiandrogenic effects, and is even widely used by trans women. However, this decrease in testosterone can be detrimental for those trying to conceive.

  • 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors

    These medications are usually prescribed to treat prostate hyperplasia or male pattern baldness. Use of these medications can reduce the volume of semen and the concentration of sperm. They may also affect libido.

    This effect is rare and temporary, and the body returns to normal after stopping the medication. Still, it’s a good idea to pause their use if you’re trying to have children.

  • Select serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

    Very common for treating depression and anxiety, SSRIs commonly cause erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. Those taking this type of medication and wishing to become parents should discuss alternatives with their doctor during this period.

    Antidepressants may have erectile dysfunction as a side effect.
  • Opioids

    These include both medications used to treat pain and some illegal drugs. They can affect testosterone production, which negatively impacts the quantity and quality of sperm.

    This effect only occurs with prolonged use of these substances. Using opioids after surgery or for another short-term issue does not typically impact fertility.

  • Other medications

    Many other medications can affect male fertility but are more specific in their use. Some examples are cimetidine, nifedipine, sulfasalazine, and colchicine.

    Seeing such a long list of medications that could affect male fertility can be alarming. But these effects are usually temporary and specific to certain uses of these medications. Even so, those trying to conceive should ask their doctor whether their medications might influence fertility to avoid surprises.