Does Meftal Spas Cause Infertility? What You Must Know Before Taking It

Meftal Spas, due to its pain-relieving properties, is often prescribed by medical practitioners for menstrual cramps. It is also used to treat tissue swellings, fever, and injuries related to fractures, tooth decay, and minor surgeries. Many people wonder, “Does Meftal Spas Cause Infertility” and seek answers before using it.

However, a common concern among many women who often use meftal-spas to relieve menstrual cramps or other pains is whether this tablet has any impact on fertility. It has been under scrutiny frequently. But does it really have an impact on fertility? 

We’ll be discussing these concerns in this article, helping you understand how this painkiller works and if it actually has any side effects that will, in turn, affect your fertility. 

What is Meftal-Spas?

A prescription medicine, Meftal-Spas, is used to treat mild and moderate pains, inflammatory conditions, and other discomforts. Primarily used to manage abdominal pain and muscle cramps, it is sometimes prescribed for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and UTIs as well. These fall under the category of the most commonly used drugs in the world, with an everyday average of over 30 million doses. 

How NSAIDs Like Mefenamic Acid Can Affect Fertility

A combination of Dicyclomine Hydrochloride and Mefenamic Acid, Meftal-Spas, relieves pain. Dicyclomine Hydrochloride has antispasmodic properties that help the muscles relax. Mefenamic Acid, falling under the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) category, relieves menstrual pain by reducing the effects of prostaglandin. 

The tablet inhibits the cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzyme, which limits the prostaglandins, or the mediators of inflammation. The COX enzymes, existing in two isoforms, COX-1, involved in physiological activities, are expressed at the baseline in every tissue, and COX-2, which responds to inflammation and labor-induced uterine contractions, is expressed at the baseline by the CNS and female reproductive system. 

Both COX-1 and COX-2 are implicated in ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and even in placental development during early pregnancy. NSAIDs work by inhibiting the COX enzyme. 

The inhibition of COX-2 affects the prostanoids, which are essential for the rupture of mature follicles. This slows down and prevents the normal reproductive process for a short period and is reversible in nature.

Evidence & What Studies and Drug Labels Say

The available evidence suggests that the effect of Meftal-Spas on fertility and ovulation is temporary and reversible. It delays ovulation in women and is suggested by healthcare experts to avoid the drug while planning to conceive. However, taking Meftal-Spas occasionally for period pain is considered to be less risky compared to frequent and prolonged usage.

It is important to note that the evidence offered by the research and studies conducted about whether Meftal-Spas can cause infertility is mixed and limited. Though it is considered that Meftal-Spas does not have a permanent effect on fertility, it is better to consult a qualified medical practitioner before taking Meftal-Spas, especially if you are actively trying to get pregnant. The doctors will suggest the right dosage that won’t affect your fertility. 

Practical Guidance for Readers – Short Term vs Long Term Use

Meftal-Spas is a drug intended for short-term use only and should not be consumed for a long time, say, more than five-to-seven days without a doctor’s advice. Extended or excessive use of Meftal-Spas can pose serious risks and side effects on your health. 

Short Term Use

Meftal-Spas is effective for managing acute or short-term pain and cramps such as menstrual cramps, muscle pains, stomach and abdominal pain. It is also useful in controlling pain and inflammation related to fever. 

Long Term Use

Prolonged use of Meftal-Spas can cause damage to vital organs, including kidney failure, stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, and complications in the cardiovascular system. It is believed that long-term use of Meftal-Spas can interfere with ovulation and affect fertility in women. Hence, the long-term usage of Meftal-Spas is highly discouraged by medical practitioners. 

Ensure that you consume only the prescribed dosage, no more than 3-7 days or as mentioned by the doctor. To avoid stomach irritations, it is advised to take it right after a meal, and avoid alcohol consumption during the course of the medication, as it can increase the risk of bleeding in the stomach and induce excessive drowsiness. Monitor the side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, or blurred vision, and if these worsen or continue even after stopping the medication, you should consult a doctor. 

Men and Fertility – What We Know

There are only a limited number of studies conducted related to the effects of Meftal-Spas on the fertility of men. Current research does not mention any direct link between male infertility and Meftal-Spas. The concerns raised related to the fertility of women taking Meftal-Spas do not apply to men. However, other side effects of long-term use of Meftal-Spas, such as organ damage, intestinal bleeding, etc, are relevant for men as well. 

If You’re Pregnant or Planning Pregnancy

Various studies show that Meftal-Spas consumption during pregnancy or the conceiving period can have a negative impact to an extent. Taking the drug during pregnancy can cause a decrease or even disrupt the blood supply from the mother to her fetus. 

Mefenamic acid can be transported to the baby through milk while breastfeeding, leading to serious health concerns. While planning pregnancy, it is advised to avoid Meftal-Spas or other NSAID medications, as they can rupture the follicles, leading to temporary infertility. 

Wrapping Up: Does Meftal Spas Cause Infertility

Though extensive studies are yet to be done regarding the correlation between infertility and Meftal-Spas, the available resources show that these drugs have a short-term, reversible effect on fertility in women. 

If you are actively trying to conceive or are pregnant, you are advised to consult a certified medical practitioner to avoid any complications that can be caused by the consumption of Meftal-Spas.

Frequently Asked Questions