Viagra and Infertility: Is there a Link?
For many men who were suffering from a condition known as erectile dysfunction, or ED, the medication known as Viagra has helped them to enjoy intimacy with their partners once again. However, this drug is not without its potential side effects and drug interactions, so care needs to be taken when using this medication. This is why Viagra is only available by prescription, so that your doctor can determine whether this medication is the best and safest option for you. However, in the past few years, new concerns have been voiced over the use of Viagra. It seems that studies have been conducted that suggest a link between Viagra and infertility in some men.
How it Works
Viagra works in treating erectile dysfunction by increasing the flow of blood to the penis. This allows for longer erections, and the ability to enjoy sexual intercourse once again. Within the past three of four years, a question has arisen in regards to whether this drug is also affecting the sperm in a man's semen so that it is unable to fertilize an egg as effectively. It is this process that has created a concern between Viagra and infertility, and led some doctors to wonder if younger men who want to have families should be using this medication regularly.
In a study that was conducted at Queen's University in Belfast, Northern Ireland three years ago, the link between Viagra and infertility was noted. It appeared that the use of this medication caused the sperm to prematurely release a digestive enzyme that would normally help the sperm to permeate the wall of the egg for fertilization. The result was sperm that was unable to fertilize the egg as effectively, although the motility of the sperm had actually improved with the use of the medication.
The Bottom Line
While the results of this study were somewhat compelling, it is important to note that in order to definitively link Viagra and infertility, more studies will have to be conducted and more data must be collected. It is also important to note that Pfizer, the company that makes Viagra, has stated that there has been no documented link between Viagra and infertility up to this point. So what should you do if you are concerned about a possible connection between Viagra and infertility? Your best solution will be to talk to your doctor about whether Viagra is indeed the best option for you in dealing with ED.
