Major depression in males may lower chances of conception

(HealthDay)—Active major depression (MD) in the male partner may lower the likelihood of pregnancy, according to a study published in the May issue of Fertility & Sterility.

Emily A. Evans-Hoeker, M.D., from Virginia Tech Carilion in Roanoke, and colleagues assessed whether maternal MD, antidepressant use, or paternal MD are associated with pregnancy outcomes after non-IVF fertility treatments among 1,650 women and 1,608 men.

The researchers found that among women not using an antidepressant, having currently active MD was not associated with poorer fertility outcomes (live birth, miscarriage), but rather there was a slightly increased likelihood of pregnancy. Among the 90 women using antidepressants, there was an increased risk of miscarriage. Male partners with currently active MD were less likely to achieve conception.

"Currently active MD in the female partner does not negatively affect non-in vitro fertilization treatment outcomes; however, currently active MD in the male partner may lower the likelihood of pregnancy," write the authors.