Antipsychotics: Antipsychotics, sexuality and pregnancy

^{From: Understanding psychiatric medications: Antipsychotics - Information for consumers, families and friends (© 2009 CAMH)}

Will taking antipsychotics affect my sex drive and function?

People who take antipsychotics can experience decreased sex drive or even problems in sexual functioning. Men may have difficulty getting or keeping an erection or ejaculating. Women may be unable to have an orgasm. Let your doctor know if you experience these side-effects. Often an adjustment in dose or change of medication can help.

These drugs can also cause irregular periods and false-positive pregnancy results in women.

Is it safe to take antipsychotics while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Each woman’s situation is unique and should be discussed with her doctor. For any pregnant woman with a history of psychosis, the question of taking antipsychotics during pregnancy usually comes down to a risk-benefit analysis. Psychosis can affect prenatal care and a mother’s ability to parent her newborn child. When treatment with an antipsychotic helps to avoid a relapse or to reduce distress, the benefits of continuing the medication may outweigh the risks.

Antipsychotics are relatively safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. If used in high doses close to delivery, the baby may be born with temporary breathing difficulties and/or withdrawal symptoms (e.g., restlessness, feeding problems). Antipsychotic medications pass into breast milk and, depending on the dose, may cause drowsiness in the baby. There are ways, however, to minimize and manage the short-term symptoms that may occur. Your doctor can help you to choose the safest type of medication to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding and to find a dose that will provide the maximum benefits with the minimum risk.

If you decide to stop taking medications during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, it is a good idea to see your doctor more often to help you monitor for a return of symptoms.

Contents:

• Introduction
• Do I need treatment?
• What do antipsychotics do?
• Side-effects
• Types of antipsychotics
• Starting and stopping antipsychotics
• Antipsychotics, other drugs and driving
• Antipsychotics, sexuality and pregnancy
• Is age an issue?
• Where can I get more information about antipsychotics?
• How can I find treatment or a support group?

• Print
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