Gynaecologist, Dr. Abosede Lewu Gives Reasons Why TTC Women Must Avoid Consistent Use Of Painkillers
Dr. Abosede Lewu, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist has revealed that women abusing painkillers are at risk of infertility. The expert warned young women to stop the abuse of painkillers also known as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, NSAIDs to prevent infertility.
Dr. Lewu, Convener, Keep All Mothers Alive Project, in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria, NAN disclosed that the consistent use of NSAIDs had negative effects on women’s menstrual cycle and ovulation.
She described NSAIDs or painkillers, as members of a drug class that reduces pain, decreases fever, prevents blood clots and in higher doses, decreases inflammation. According to the health practitioner:
“Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs have also been implicated in infertility. The consistent use or abuse of these drugs prevent ovulation and lower progesterone levels in young women.
“It prevents the follicle from breaking to release an egg, and when the egg is not released, there is nothing to fertilise by the sperm.
READ ALSO: The Role of Marijuana And Substance Usage In A Couples’ Infertility And Miscarriages
“Painkillers work mostly by blocking a particular pathway. This pathway is needed to achieve ovulation if blocked, a ripe follicle may not ovulate leading to Luteinised Unruptured Follicle or other mild dysfunction.’’
The expert further said consistent use of NSAIDs or painkillers should be discouraged among women trying to get pregnant. She urged young women to consult a physician for proper prescription, timing and restrictions before using painkillers. She stated further:
“For those using painkillers for a few days for menstrual pain, you have already ovulated before the period, so except your cycle is very short. NSAIDs should not affect your menses, ovulation and fertility.
“For those using NSAIDs consistently for other medical conditions, they are more at risk for not treating the underlying cause. They need to find an alternative drug or therapy.
“There are other groups of analgesics that can be used in place of NSAIDs. If NSAID is to be used, it should be prescribed, timed and restricted. So, stop NSAIDs abuse.”
READ ALSO: 7 Preventable Causes Of Female Infertility- Fertility Expert, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru
The gynaecologist also urged women to visit a doctor when they experienced ovulation or menstrual disorders and fertility issues.
“Please note, if you have ovulation or menstrual disorders and fertility issues, consult a specialist,’’ she advised.