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Medication Side Effects On Fertility
What You Need to Know and How to Make a Medical Negligence Claim
If you have been prescribed medicine for a health condition, it’s worth knowing any potential medication side effects on fertility. This is because many people don’t realise that some medications may have side effects which can affect your ability to have children.
Some of these effects may only be temporary, but others could have a longer term or irreversible impact. Medical professionals are required by law to inform you of a possible side effect of a medicine, including any impact on your fertility.
If you were not warned about the risk and you suffer harm as a result, you may be able to make a medical negligence claim. Jefferies Claims can help you find out more about a claim for compensation.
We partner with highly experienced lawyers who can asses your case – at no cost to you.
How Can Medications Affect Fertility?
Both men and women can experience fertility problems and medications can play a surprising role in this. Some drugs interfere with hormone levels, while others may damage reproductive organs or reduce sperm count and quality.
Medications That May Affect Fertility Include:
- Chemotherapy drugs – Commonly used in cancer treatment, these can cause permanent infertility.
- Certain antidepressants – Some SSRIs and other mood-altering medications may impact libido or interfere with reproductive hormones.
- Hormonal treatments – Such as those used for endometriosis or prostate conditions, which can temporarily or permanently affect fertility.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Long-term use can interfere with ovulation in women.
- Steroids – Can reduce testosterone levels and lower sperm production.
- Antipsychotic medications – May cause irregular periods or hormonal changes.
- Some antibiotics – Though rare, certain antibiotics can impact sperm quality.
Signs That a Medication May Be Affecting Your Fertility
If you’re actively trying to conceive and not having success, and you’re on a long-term medication, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor. Some signs that medication may be affecting your fertility include:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Low libido or sexual dysfunction
- Changes in hormone levels (such as low testosterone or oestrogen)
- Reduced sperm count or motility
- Mood changes or weight gain linked to hormone disruption
These symptoms don’t necessarily mean you’re infertile. But they are worth checking out, especially if they start after you begin a new medication.
Informed About Side Effects?
Doctors and healthcare providers have a legal duty to inform you about potential side effects of any medication they prescribe. This should include how it could affect your fertility.
If a doctor fails to inform you of these risks, and you suffer fertility loss or other related harm, this may be considered medical negligence.
How to Make a Medical Negligence Claim
If you believe your fertility has been harmed by medication and your healthcare provider didn’t warn you, you may have a valid claim for medical negligence compensation.
Here are the next steps:
Get a Medical Assessment
Firstly, speak to your doctor or a fertility specialist to get a comprehensive picture of your fertility health.
Request Your Medical Records
Gather all relevant documents, including prescription records, consultation notes, and fertility test results. These will help show what treatment you received and whether the risks were discussed.
Consult With A Medical Negligence Lawyer
As medical negligence cases can be complex, it is advisable to speak to a solicitor who is experienced in this field. You generally have three years from the date you found out about the harm you have suffered to start a claim. This may be the date you were diagnosed with fertility or when you learned your medication was to blame.
If your claim is successful, compensation can typically include fertility treatment costs, medical expenses, loss of income and emotional distress.
Not every fertility problem can be prevented. However, if you feel you or a loved one would like to consult with a lawyer about a claim for compensation, contact our team.
Jefferies Claims partners with lawyers who can assess your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.
Contact us today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team.