Psoriasis and Fertility: Can It Affect Your Chances of Getting Pregnant?

When Plans Meet Questions

Karla and her partner were finally ready. After years of building their careers, they felt it was time to start a family. But one thing kept circling in her mind: I have psoriasis. Could this affect my chances of getting pregnant? Will my condition or medication make it harder to conceive?

If you're living with psoriasis and thinking about growing your family, you're not alone in asking these questions. In this guide, we explore how psoriasis might influence fertility, what the science says, and how to prepare for pregnancy while managing your skin and your health.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with your dermatologist, OB-GYN, or fertility specialist before making treatment or pregnancy planning decisions.

Does Psoriasis Affect Fertility?

The short answer is: psoriasis itself does not directly prevent pregnancy or cause infertility. Women with psoriasis can and do become pregnant. However, certain factors associated with psoriasis might have an indirect impact on fertility.

These include:

• Chronic inflammation

• Stress and anxiety

• Medications used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis

• Co-existing conditions like metabolic syndrome or PCOS

Understanding how these elements interact with reproductive health is key to making informed choices.

How Inflammation Could Play a Role

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic systemic inflammation. While it primarily affects the skin, inflammation also circulates throughout the body. This has raised questions about how it might affect reproductive health.

Some research suggests that chronic inflammation can:

• Disrupt hormone regulation

• Interfere with ovulation

• Reduce implantation rates in the uterus

However, it’s important to note that most of this evidence comes from broader autoimmune disease studies. For people with mild to moderate psoriasis, the impact is likely minimal.

That said, if your psoriasis is severe or poorly controlled, it may be worth discussing anti-inflammatory strategies with your healthcare team before trying to conceive.

Medications and Fertility Considerations

Where psoriasis and fertility most clearly intersect is medication use. Some psoriasis treatments are not safe for pregnancy or conception and can impact fertility in both men and women.

❌ Methotrexate

• Highly toxic to embryos and fetuses

• Must be stopped at least 3-6 months before trying to conceive

• Not safe for men or women trying to conceive

❌ Acitretin

• A form of oral retinoid that stays in the body for a long time

• Women must avoid pregnancy for at least 3 years after stopping

⚠️ Biologic Medications

• Examples: adalimumab, etanercept, ustekinumab

• Some studies suggest certain biologics may be safe to use during conception and pregnancy

• Others may require temporary discontinuation

• Always consult your dermatologist and OB-GYN before continuing biologics while trying to conceive

✅ Safer Options to Discuss

• Topical corticosteroids (low potency)

• Moisturizers and emollients

• Phototherapy (narrowband UVB)

If you're planning to conceive, it's important to review your treatment plan and discuss a preconception strategy with your medical team.

Psoriasis and Fertility in Men

While most discussions focus on female fertility, psoriasis can affect men as well.

Here’s what we know:

• Psoriasis does not impair sperm production directly

• However, some treatments (like methotrexate or cyclosporine) may reduce sperm quality or count

• Chronic inflammation, fatigue, and discomfort may affect libido or sexual function

Men with psoriasis who wish to conceive should speak to a dermatologist or fertility specialist about medication safety and overall health optimization.

Lifestyle Factors That Matter

People with psoriasis are often advised to monitor lifestyle habits—not just for their skin but also for overall health. These same habits impact fertility.

Harmful Factors:

• Smoking: Reduces fertility in both men and women; worsens psoriasis

• Heavy alcohol use: Linked to poor egg and sperm quality

• Obesity: Increases risk of PCOS, insulin resistance, and hormone imbalance

Supportive Habits:

• Anti-inflammatory diet: Rich in vegetables, fruits, omega-3s, and whole grains

• Moderate exercise: Boosts mood, reduces inflammation, and supports hormonal balance

• Stress management: High stress can delay ovulation and increase flares

These changes can improve both psoriasis control and reproductive outcomes.

Emotional Impact: Fear and Readiness

For many people, fertility is as much an emotional journey as it is a physical one. Psoriasis can bring extra layers of anxiety:

• Fear of passing psoriasis to your child (there is a genetic link, but not a guarantee)

• Anxiety about flares during pregnancy

• Concerns about medication safety

• Body image struggles

These feelings are valid. Talking with a counselor or support group can help. So can creating a care plan with doctors you trust.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Before starting your pregnancy journey, consider bringing these questions to your dermatologist or OB-GYN:

1. Is my current psoriasis treatment safe if I'm trying to conceive?

2. Should I stop any medications before pregnancy? If so, how far in advance?

3. Are there safer alternatives I can use while trying to get pregnant?

4. How might my psoriasis affect my pregnancy or delivery plan?

5. Can I stay on my biologic treatment during pregnancy?

6. Are there extra precautions I should take to manage stress and flares?

7. Is a referral to a fertility specialist recommended in my case?

Bringing a list helps make the most of your visit and gives you peace of mind as you plan ahead.

Final Thoughts: Psoriasis Doesn’t Have to Stand in Your Way

Karla eventually found peace in planning. She spoke to her dermatologist, adjusted her treatment, and started a daily routine focused on both skin and reproductive health. A few months later, she was pregnant—and feeling more confident about her path forward.

The truth is, having psoriasis doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. But planning ahead, understanding medication safety, and taking care of your body and mind will make the journey easier.

Looking for gentle, natural support for managing psoriasis symptoms? Visit www.nopsor-usa.com to learn more.

Reference

National Psoriasis Foundation – Psoriasis and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Offers guidance on psoriasis and fertility, safe medications, and pregnancy planning.
🔗 https://www.psoriasis.org/pregnancy-and-breastfeeding/

La Leche League International – Psoriasis and Breastfeeding
Offers insight into psoriasis management during the perinatal period, with context useful for conception and postpartum care.
🔗 https://llli.org/news/psoriasis-and-breastfeeding/