Viagra Druring Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Viagra (sildenafil) is approved for treatment of erectile dysfunction in men. Since Viagra is not indicated for women, there is actually no need to worry about the possible effects of this medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, because of the popularity of Viagra, some women take it for recreational purposes without a prescription thinking that it can help enhance their sexual performance and satisfaction.
If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your healthcare provider right away. Your healthcare provider will likely evaluate you and the unborn child for possible adverse effects.
Pregnancy Warnings
The FDA classifies Viagra as a Pregnancy Category B medication. Animal studies conducted on Viagra failed to show evidence of possible harm on the fetus. There are no controlled human studies that evaluate the effects of Viagra on pregnant women. Like other pregnancy category B medications, sildenafil may be prescribed to pregnant women only when there is a clear need and the benefits outweigh the risks.
However, it is important to remember that Viagra is not intended for use by women and in no occasion should you consider taking it without approval of your healthcare provider.
Breastfeeding Warnings
It is not known whether Viagra is excreted into the human milk or not. There are no well controlled studies that evaluate the presence of Viagra in breast milk. Therefore, the manufacturer recommends caution when using this medication in nursing women.
Viagra and Male Fertility
Perhaps, it is more important for men to understand the possible effects of Viagra on their fertility. Many men are concerned whether this medication can affect their ability to produce sperm and their chances of fathering a child.
There are many reported cases discussing the failure of Viagra to improve male fertility. Meanwhile, there are limited studies that have actually looked into the effects Viagra on male fertility. A study conducted in 2004 and published in the journal Fertility and Sterility has cast doubt on the ability of Viagra to help men father a child. The study revealed that exposure to Viagra can cause damage to the sperm. Furthermore, it has shown that Viagra may reduce the chances of fertilizing eggs thus lowering the chances of conception. In other reports indicate Viagra did not boost fertility results in women visiting in vitro fertility (IVF) clinics while their partners where taking Viagra. Basically, Viagra is only indicated to help men achieve and sustain an erection and should never be used as fertility drug.
For couples who have conceived a child while taking Viagra, there is no need to worry about the outcome of pregnancy. For over 9 years, there has been no report of adverse effects on the fetus or the mother due to Viagra use.
