On top of the many foods they need to stay away from and the physical activities they should be careful of, women who are trying to have a baby also need to pay close attention to the medications they’re taking.
New studies are surfacing and linking certain medications, both over-the-counter and prescription—with fertility.
Dr. Alan Copperman said in a Parents article: “Because a woman's menstrual cycle is tightly controlled by the interaction between the brain, ovaries, and uterus, any health problem or medication that disrupts this communication could adversely affect ovulation and make it challenging for women to achieve a pregnancy.”
These medication changes the body’s production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH) by the pituitary gland, which causes fertility issues.
While most of these medications affect a woman’s ability to conceive only for a few days, some medications affect a woman fertility for months, said Dr. Copperman.
“Some of the over-the-counter drugs that can have a minor impact on a woman's ability to conceive are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain herbal or natural treatments and remedies,” said a Parent Herald story.
Meanwhile, certain prescription drugs that affect a woman’s fertility include anti-depressants, anabolic steroids, corticosteroids, antiepileptic drugs, thyroid meds and certain skin products with hormone content (estrogen and progesterone) can also fertility problems in women.
Chemotherapy and other cancer treatment also have adverse effects on a woman's ability to conceive a baby.
The best course of action is to consult with a fertility doctor, according to Baby Center. They can help find alternative treatments and medications that won’t hurt women’s chances of having a baby.
Supplements such as folic acid, B vitamins, and vitamins B6 and B12 are known to aid increase chances of a woman's to conceive a baby, but like with all supplements, a doctor’s green light should be followed.
READ: 7 Conception myths busted by science
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