Why You Must Stop Using Finasteride When Trying to Conceive

Finasteride is a commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of male pattern baldness. However, if you are trying to conceive a child, it is important to stop using this medication. 

In this article, we will explore the reasons why it is essential to stop using Finasteride when trying to conceive, and the potential risks and side effects it can have on fertility and pregnancy.

Understanding How Finasteride Works

Finasteride works by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone that is responsible for the shrinkage of hair follicles. By blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT, Finasteride helps to stop hair loss.

Male Fertility

However, Finasteride can also impact male fertility by decreasing the levels of testosterone in the body. Testosterone is a crucial hormone in male reproductive health, and low levels can lead to a decrease in sperm count and motility, making it more difficult to conceive a child.

Risks and Side Effects of Finasteride on Fertility

There is evidence to suggest that Finasteride may affect the development of a fetus in pregnant women. The medication has been shown to cross the placental barrier and can potentially harm the development of the fetus.

There have also been cases of birth defects reported in children whose mothers were exposed to Finasteride during pregnancy. For these reasons, it is important to use condoms when having sex and make sure the tablets never come into contact with the mother as the drug can be absorbed through the skin.

When to Stop Using Finasteride

It is recommended that men stop using Finasteride at least three months before trying to conceive a child. This time frame allows for the medication to completely clear the body and for testosterone levels to return to normal.

It is also essential to inform your healthcare provider if you are planning to conceive or are already pregnant. They may recommend alternative hair loss treatments or lifestyle changes that can help manage the symptoms of male pattern baldness without putting your fertility or pregnancy at risk.

What are your other options?

Some safe hair loss treatments during conception and pregnancy include:

1. Minoxidil: A topical solution that can be applied directly to the scalp, Minoxidil has been proven to be safe for use during pregnancy and conception.
2. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This non-invasive procedure involves using the patient's own blood to stimulate hair growth. It is considered safe for use during conception and pregnancy.
3. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to diet and lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, and getting adequate sleep, can also help improve hair health.

It is important to remember that not all hair loss treatments are safe during conception and pregnancy, and some can even be harmful to a developing fetus. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new hair loss treatment, especially during conception and pregnancy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is crucial to stop using Finasteride when trying to conceive a child. The medication can impact male fertility by decreasing sperm count and motility, and it can also potentially harm the development of a fetus in pregnant women. 

If you are planning to conceive or are already pregnant, it is important to inform your healthcare provider and to stop using Finasteride at least three months before trying to conceive. By doing so, you can help ensure the health and safety of both you and your potential child.

References
What are the contraindications and cautions for finasteride? National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
Finasteride, NHS
Finasteride. Does it affect spermatogenesis and pregnancy? NCIB, M. Pole and G. Koren