Читать книгу Getting Pregnant For Dummies - Sharon Perkins - Страница 113

Considering how many people are using antidepressants, it is surprising how little research has been done on the influence of antidepressants on fertility. There are a number of categories of medications that are antidepressants. However, the largest group are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that acts as a messenger between brain cells. Examples of SSRIs are Prozac, Lexapro, Zoloft, Paxil, and Celexa to mention a few.

A recent review identified 16 articles that studied the effect of SSRIs on fertility. Six of the studies demonstrated no effect on fertility, three suggested a negative effect, and one demonstrated an increase in pregnancy rate. Although the research methodology was considered poor, six of the studies demonstrated a negative effect on the semen parameters. So, what to do? First, ask yourself if you really need those little happy pills. If not, stop — under the direction of the prescribing physician since some cannot be stopped suddenly. If you truly need those pills, so be it. Just remember to notify your fertility doctor of the pills you are taking.