Avoid anti-depressant medicines

Paradoxically, infertility seems to be spiraling worldwide despite a population explosion. It is estimated that 20% of couples that are trying to conceive experience infertility issues. Fifty percent of these couples undergo this trauma because of male infertility. It is estimated that male fertility has soared by approximately 50% since 1930. These are shocking statistics and reveal how low sperm counts are the main reason for male infertility. Male infertility results from a number of diverse causes. One is the use of anti-depressant drugs. Studies prove that anti-depressant drug use is on the rise and these drugs directly impact male fertility. Conventional semen analysis usually fails to identify the underlying causes for male infertility as a history of anti-depressant drug usage.

Anti-depressants and male infertility

Mental health problems are on the rise worldwide. People actively seek professional psychiatric help to overcome their individual mental troubles. Depression is the primary mental health issue and anti-depressants are routinely prescribed to deal with it. What is generally not known is that anti-depressants directly affect male fertility. Anti-depressants decrease both sperm count and sperm motility. Physicians advise that couples that are trying to conceive should discontinue anti-depressant usage at least 3 months prior to conceiving. This removes any traces of the anti-depressant from the body and restores sperm count to normal levels. Achieving pregnancy then becomes a reality.

Anti-depressants and fetus health

There is another more urgent issue that attaches itself to anti-depressants: that is the health of the fetus. Studies prove that lithium usage may affect thyroid function in the fetus and also cause abnormal drowsiness. Research also warns against tranquilizer use; drugs such as diazepam may adversely affect the central nervous system of the fetus. This is because anti-depressants directly work on the central nervous system. Admittedly more research is required to prove that anti-depressants traces are directly passed on to the fetus. But it is better to take salutary precautions as discontinuance of anti-depressants. Generally, physicians recommend a gradual withdrawal from anti-depressants. It is best to seek medical advise before embarking on a conception course where the physician may alter the anti-depressant medication and dosage.
 
Male infertility is thus triggered by over the counter anti-depressant medication and the sole remedy is discontinuance of the same to restore normal sperm counts and motility.