Prescription Drugs, Contraceptives, and Infertility

In recent years, with advancements in pharmaceuticals and contraceptive devices, serious concerns over the possibility of a link between female infertility and prescription drugs or contraceptives have arisen. While there have been clear and indisputable connections made between miscarriage or birth defects and the use of such prescription drugs as Accutane^TM and Coumadin®, many myths about the impact of drugs and contraceptives on female infertility have been debunked.

IUDs and Infertility

Although IUDs (intrauterine devices) and infertility have been linked for many years, the IUDs, themselves, do not cause infertility. Studies now show that when a woman contracts a sexually transmitted disease while using and IUD, the device facilitates in spreading the infection, which can eventually lead to infertility; however, it does not cause or invite the disease. Physicians recommend IUDs to couples in long-term, monogamous relationships with low risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases.

Femara® and Pregnancy

Cancer drugs, like Femara®, have also been linked with infertility. Femara® is used to treat breast cancer, but some physicians found off-label, non-FDA approved uses for it, including female fertility enhancement. If you or your partner have been prescribed Femara® and are now experiencing infertility, you should seek professional medical attention right away.

Contraceptives and Infertility

As for links between female factor infertility and other contraceptives, none have been demonstrated definitively. To learn more about possible connections between prescription drugs and contraceptives and infertility, you should contact a female fertility specialist.

Locate a Fertility Specialist or Clinic in Your Area

If you and your partner are trying to conceive, but believe you are unable to due to female infertility, it is important that you visit a fertility specialist. A specialist can more readily diagnose female factor infertility and provide comprehensive treatment for conditions ranging from secondary infertility to polycystic ovarian syndrome. DocShop's nation-wide directory of fertility specialists can help you locate an experienced physician in your area. Use DocShop to find a fertility specialist who can help you today.