The Patch/Fertility

[lexy92]

My mum was reading through the leaflets in my medications the other day and apparently the Azathioprine can effect contraception? I phoned my IBD specialist but she didn't know... I'm on the patch (Evra) and just need to know if its going to effect me or not?

Also, does Crohn's Disease affect fertility? I've tried googling all of this but it doesn't help me at all....

Thanks girlies

x

 

[Jennifer]

So far from what I read is that Azathioprine is not good for the fetus or good for breast feeding so it suggests to take a good form of birth control and to not breast feed while on it.

"If you are pregnant or are considering having a child, discuss this with your doctor before starting this medication. The use of an effective form of birth control is important as long as you take this medication and for months after it is stopped. Breast-feeding should be avoided while taking azathioprine because the drug can enter breast milk." "Women taking this medication should discuss appropriate forms of birth control with their primary care physicians or gynecologists." http://www.rheumatology.org/practice/clinical/patients/medications/azathioprine.asp

"tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You should use birth control to be sure you or your partner will not become pregnant while you are taking this medication. Call your doctor if you or your partner become pregnant while you are taking azathioprine. Azathioprine may harm the fetus." http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682167.html

Didn't read anything about it making any forms of birth control less effective. Contact your pharmacist as they may know more about it.

Does Crohn's affect fertility? Well I hope not. I haven't read that just yet but I know there are many moms and pregnant crohnies on the forum.

 

[SarahBear]

From what I have heard, Crohn's disease slightly ups the risk of miscarriage, especially during a flare-up. Also, some women experience a worsening of symptoms while pregnant, and some have less symptoms.

I couldn't say for sure though - that's just what I've heard. Thought I'd go ahead and share!