Corticosteroids: Can they cause infertility in women?

Low-dose treatment with corticosteroids, such as for asthma, is unlikely to cause infertility — especially if you have regular periods. But very high doses may impair ovulation, causing irregular menstruation. In people with certain medical conditions, such as mild congenital adrenal hyperplasia or sperm antibodies, corticosteroid treatment may actually improve fertility.

If you require ongoing corticosteroid treatment for a chronic disease, discuss your plans for conception with your doctor.