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Do OTC Medications Affect Fertility?

The topic for this blog came from a question asked in our forums. In fact, there is some evidence that certain medications can interfere with fertility. Whether or not these medications would completely prevent pregnancy is unclear.

It is actually widely believed that some common medications can interfere with ovulation. These are drugs known as NSAIDS, and sold under names like Aleve, Advil and Ibuprofen. In the book Stay Fertile Longer: Everything You Need to Know to Get Pregnant, the author talks about this link. The reason cited is that these medications block the production of prostaglandins, which interferes with ovulation.

In addition to over the counter medications, some prescription drugs can interfere with fertility. These include blood pressure medications and some drugs used to treat thyroid conditions or asthma. If you are on prescription medication and are trying to get pregnant, ask your doctor about any potential interactions.

Medicines aren’t the only thing that can affect fertility. Some women don’t have to look further than their morning cup of coffee to find the culprit. Studies have pointed to a link between heavy coffee drinking and reduced fertility. These results were found in women drinking three or more cups each day.

When you are cutting out caffeine, don’t just cut out the coffee. Pay attention to all sources of caffeine. Cutting out a cup of coffee won’t help if you have soda and iced tea during the day. Some medications contain caffeine, so read the labels. A little here and a little there can add up to a lot by the end of the day.

Whether or not a specific medication can interfere with conception, talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription and over the counter medicines. Some may not be safe if you do conceive in the near future. Your doctor will be able to evaluate the medicines you are taking and suggest substitutes for medicines that aren’t safe for pregnancy. When you do conceive, you will be giving your baby the best possible start in life.

Related Articles:

Does Exposure to Chemicals Affect Fertility?

The Effect of Stress on Fertility

The Effect of Weight on Fertility

This entry was posted in Trying to Conceive (TTC) and tagged by Pattie Hughes. Bookmark the permalink.

About Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. Just before her third child was born, the family relocated to Pennsylvania to be near family. She stopped teaching and began writing. This gives her the opportunity to work from home and be with her children. She enjoys spending time with her family, doing crafts, playing outside at the park or just hanging out together.