Medications referred to as “Female Viagra” pose a safety concern during pregnancy and require immediate medical consultation. Any drug taken during gestation carries a potential risk to the developing fetus, and these medications are no exception. Pregnant individuals must always seek professional medical guidance before starting, continuing, or discontinuing any treatment. This information clarifies the nature of these drugs and their safety profiles during pregnancy.
Understanding the Medications Commonly Called Female Viagra
The term “Female Viagra” is a nickname for two medications approved for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). HSDD is characterized by low sexual desire causing significant distress, not due to a medical condition or other substance. These treatments are Flibanserin (Addyi) and Bremelanotide (Vyleesi). Flibanserin is an oral tablet that acts on serotonin receptors in the brain to regulate neurotransmitters related to sexual desire. Bremelanotide is an injectable medication taken as needed, targeting the MC4R receptor in the hypothalamus to stimulate arousal pathways.
Safety Profile and Contraindications During Pregnancy
Both Flibanserin and Bremelanotide are formally contraindicated for use in pregnant individuals due to a lack of sufficient clinical data regarding their effects on a developing fetus. If a woman becomes pregnant while on either medication, use must be discontinued immediately. Animal studies of Flibanserin showed evidence of fetal toxicity, including developmental abnormalities and reduced fetal weight. Similarly, Bremelanotide studies indicated potential fetal harm, such as developmental delays in offspring. Women of reproductive potential are advised to use effective contraception while receiving treatment, and a pregnancy exposure registry monitors those inadvertently exposed to Bremelanotide.
The Specific Role of Sildenafil (Viagra) in Pregnancy
Sildenafil, the active ingredient in male Viagra, is not approved for treating HSDD in women, though it is sometimes confused with “Female Viagra.” Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow. In obstetrics, it has been explored off-label for severe conditions like maternal pulmonary hypertension or fetal growth restriction to increase placental blood flow. However, a high-profile randomized clinical trial in the Netherlands, the STRIDER trial, was abruptly halted in 2018 due to serious safety concerns. Results suggested that maternal sildenafil administration was associated with a significantly increased risk of neonatal pulmonary hypertension, indicating the drug may have interfered with fetal lung development and increased infant death.
Addressing Changes in Sexual Desire Without Medication
Non-Drug Interventions
A decrease in sexual desire during pregnancy is common, resulting from physiological and psychological factors. Hormonal fluctuations and physical symptoms like fatigue and nausea can significantly reduce libido. Psychological factors, including anxiety, body image concerns, and stress about parenthood, also contribute to diminished desire. Since pharmacological options for HSDD are unsafe, managing the change shifts toward non-drug interventions.
Maintaining Intimacy
Open communication with a partner about comfort levels and emotional needs helps maintain intimacy. Focusing on non-sexual physical affection, such as cuddling or massage, strengthens the emotional connection without the pressure of sexual activity. Prioritizing adequate sleep, light physical activity, and stress-reduction techniques like meditation can help manage fatigue and anxiety. Exploring different sexual positions that accommodate the pregnant body can help restore comfort and enjoyment during intimate moments.