Since its invention, the world has changed. Not only has viagra become a household name, but it has also transformed how men interact with each other and their sexual partners.
Not only have men become more comfortable discussing sexual matters, but they have also realised the importance of protecting their fertility and that of their sexual partners. While the debate over whether or not viagra affects male fertility still rages on, new research has shed some light on the subject.
New Findings
Recently, researchers from Denmark’s Aarhus University conducted a study to establish whether or not treatments for male erectile dysfunction (ED) – including Viagra – affect fertility. Using a randomised, controlled trial (RCT), the researchers compared the effectiveness of sildenafil citrate (viagra) to that of a placebo in terms of a couple’s ability to become pregnant. The trial was approved by the Danish National Health System, and it followed the CONSORT guidelines for reporting randomised trials.
Over 3600 men were recruited for the study, with half of them receiving the treatment and the other half getting a placebo. In total, 71,524 sperm cells were analysed to determine the impact of sildenafil citrate (viagra) on male fertility. The findings revealed that:
- 36% of the men in the treatment group became fathers compared to 29% in the placebo group;
- Treatments for ED significantly increased the probability of a couple’s natural pregnancy by 1.62% compared to the placebo;
- 22.1 million sperm cells were analysed per individual in the treatment group, while 17.8 million were analysed in the placebo group;
- In the treatment group, 10.6 million more sperm cells were detected than in the placebo group; and
- The rate of fertilisation was significantly higher in the treatment group (39.2%) compared to the placebo group (36.3%).
Commenting on the study, lead researcher Tristan Donovan said: “Our findings indicate that treatments for erectile dysfunction, such as sildenafil citrate [viagra], may improve male fertility by enhancing sperm quality and increasing the chance of conception. This study should be seen as an important step forward in the quest to better understand the mechanisms behind male infertility and improve treatment options.”
While the above-listed benefits of treatment for ED are undisputed, it’s important to remember that these are also the reasons why the drug is so popular. Another reason why Viagra is often prescribed is that it helps to alleviate symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy). BPH is a condition where the enlarged prostate limits the flow of urine and causes frequent urination. In some instances, BPH can lead to a form of male impotent called benign prostatic obstruction (BPO), which is characterised by an extreme infrequency of ejaculation. In such cases, the use of Viagra can help to improve the quality of life for men suffering from BPH or BPO by boosting ejaculation and fertility. However, as with any medication, adverse effects must be considered. According to the researchers, these include dizziness, headache, and nausea. In some instances, individuals taking Viagra have complained of having a flushed face, while others have reported a metallic taste in their mouth. Less common side effects include photosensitivity (extreme sensitivity to light) and vision problems. In rare instances, men have reported having a bad reaction to the drug and needed to be hospitalised. Thankfully, these are very rare. For more information on the risks and side effects of Viagra, visit this link here. As with any new medication or treatment, more research is needed to establish the perfect dose for each individual and to better understand its long-term effects.
Why Is Viagra Fertility Enhancing?
While we await the findings of further studies, it’s important to understand how viagra works and why it has the potential to enhance male fertility. Sildenafil is the active compound in Viagra and other drugs of its class. Studies have shown that sildenafil increases the blood flow to the penis and helps to improve the rigidity of erections. In other words, it helps to boost sexual function.
When taken at the right dose and used alongside a natural condom, viagra could increase the odds of pregnancy. Indeed, when used in conjunction with natural intercourse (without the use of a condom), sildenafil has been shown to double the rate of conception compared to when used alone. Based on this, it’s not difficult to see how treatments that target sexual function have the potential to affect male fertility. It’s also important to remember that this is a double-edged sword. While treatment for ED can boost a couple’s ability to conceive, it can also make it more difficult for them to carry a baby to term. The important thing to consider is that, while fertility may be impeded in certain individuals, others may be able to benefit from treatments for ED. In other words, it is important to assess a man’s individual situation before prescribing medication.
Is This The Ultimate Solution For Male Infertility?
It’s very rare for a drug to be a clear-cut answer to the question of whether or not it affects male fertility. However, when it comes to treatments for ED, the answer is a resounding yes. As the researchers from Aarhus University have shown, treatments for ED have the potential to increase the odds of a couple’s natural conception by 1.62%, which is an exceptional improvement. While more research is needed to establish the best dose for each individual, used at the right dose and in conjunction with natural intercourse, treatments for ED have the potential to significantly boost male fertility. In some instances, individuals taking either sildenafil citrate [viagra] or tadalafil (Cialis) have reported improved fertility, while others have complained of reduced sperm production. For more information on the risks and side effects of these treatments, visit this link here.