Question
How does finasteride affect male fertility?
Answer
Finasteride is a hormone that blocks the conversion of testosterone to a more potent hormone called DHT. It’s used to reduce prostate size in older men or reduce male pattern baldness in younger men.
It does have some hormonal effects and there is some evidence for reduction in sperm density whilst receiving finasteride. But these effects wear off over several months.
So, if you’re concerned and looking to have children, you should discuss the reasons you’re on finasteride with your doctor and consider whether it’s really necessary for you to continue.
