Vardenafil and Fertility: Does It Affect Conception?

Takes less than 2 minutes to complete 100% online

At a glance

How Vardenafil Works and Why It Doesn't Harm Fertility

Vardenafil belongs to a class of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which also includes sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis) [5]. These medicines work by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow when you are sexually aroused. This mechanism is entirely separate from the processes involved in sperm production (spermatogenesis), which takes place in the testes over approximately 70 days.

PDE5 enzymes are found in various tissues throughout the body, but the action of vardenafil on these enzymes does not disrupt the hormonal signals or cellular processes required for healthy sperm development [5]. Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance have not identified any adverse effects of vardenafil on sperm count, motility (movement), or morphology (shape). Men who take vardenafil for erectile dysfunction can generally do so without concern that the medicine will reduce their fertility or harm their chances of conception.

It is important to remember that erectile dysfunction itself can be a barrier to conception simply because it makes intercourse difficult or impossible. By successfully treating ED, vardenafil may actually improve the chances of conception by enabling regular sexual activity during the fertile window [1][2].

Research on Vardenafil and Male Fertility

While large-scale fertility studies specifically focused on vardenafil are limited, the available evidence is reassuring. Animal studies and human pharmacokinetic data show that vardenafil does not accumulate in the testes or interfere with testosterone production, the hormone essential for sperm production [5]. Vardenafil is rapidly absorbed and eliminated from the body, with a half-life of approximately four to five hours, meaning it does not build up over time with regular use.

Broader research on PDE5 inhibitors as a class has consistently found no negative impact on male fertility parameters [8]. Some studies have even explored whether PDE5 inhibitors might have a role in treating certain types of male infertility, although this remains an area of ongoing investigation. For men with erectile dysfunction who are trying to conceive, the priority is often to restore erectile function so that intercourse can occur at the right time in the menstrual cycle.

If you have concerns about fertility or have been trying to conceive for more than a year without success (or six months if your partner is over 35), it is advisable to speak with your GP. They can arrange a semen analysis and other investigations to assess fertility independently of any ED treatment you may be using [2].

What About Other ED Medicines and Fertility?

The same reassuring evidence applies to other PDE5 inhibitors used for erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil, tadalafil, and avanafil all work by the same mechanism as vardenafil and have not been shown to harm male fertility [3][4][6]. If you are taking any of these medicines and planning to start a family, you can continue your treatment with confidence. The choice between different PDE5 inhibitors is usually based on how quickly they work, how long they last, and personal preference rather than any difference in fertility safety.

Vardenafil and Fertility: Practical Advice for Couples Trying to Conceive

If you are taking vardenafil and actively trying for a baby, the most important factor is timing intercourse around ovulation, which typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle. Vardenafil is taken on demand, usually 25 to 60 minutes before sexual activity, and works only when you are sexually stimulated [5]. This flexibility makes it well-suited for couples who want to plan intercourse around fertile days without the need for daily medication.

Vardenafil is available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg doses. The usual starting dose is 10 mg, taken as needed, and your prescriber may adjust this based on effectiveness and side effects [5]. Because vardenafil does not need to be taken every day, you can use it only when required, which may be preferable if you are concerned about taking any medicine while trying to conceive, even though the evidence shows it is safe.

Lifestyle factors play a significant role in both erectile function and fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, avoiding smoking, and managing stress can all improve erectile dysfunction and support healthy sperm production [1][2]. If ED is caused or worsened by an underlying health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, treating these conditions can benefit both sexual health and fertility.

What you need to know

• Vardenafil does not affect sperm count, quality, or male fertility
• You can safely take vardenafil while trying to conceive
• Vardenafil works by improving blood flow, not by affecting hormones or sperm
• All PDE5 inhibitors are equally safe for fertility
• See your GP if you have been trying to conceive for over a year

When to See a Doctor About Vardenafil and Fertility Concerns

If you have been using vardenafil and have concerns about your fertility, or if you and your partner have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, it is important to see your GP [2]. Fertility investigations typically include a semen analysis for the male partner and ovulation tracking or other tests for the female partner. These tests can identify any issues that may be affecting your ability to conceive, independently of your ED treatment.

Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease or diabetes, both of which can affect overall health and fertility [1][2]. If you have not yet discussed your ED with a doctor, it is worth doing so, as treating any underlying condition may improve both erectile function and general wellbeing. Your GP can also review any other medicines you are taking to ensure there are no interactions or factors that might be contributing to ED or fertility concerns.

Vardenafil is a prescription-only medicine, and at Cured Pharmacy all ED treatments are supplied following an online consultation reviewed by a UK-registered prescriber. During this consultation, you can discuss any concerns about fertility, and the prescriber will ensure vardenafil is safe and appropriate for you based on your medical history and current medications [5].

What If Vardenafil Doesn't Work for Me?

If vardenafil is not effective or causes side effects, there are several alternative ED treatments available. Other PDE5 inhibitors such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or avanafil work in a similar way but differ in onset and duration of action [3][4][6]. Tadalafil, for example, can last up to 36 hours, which may offer more spontaneity for couples trying to conceive. Your prescriber can help you find the most suitable option, and switching between PDE5 inhibitors is common and safe.

Does Vardenafil Affect Female Fertility or Pregnancy?

Vardenafil is not intended for use by women and has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women [5]. However, if you are a man taking vardenafil and your partner becomes pregnant, there is no evidence that the medicine poses any risk to the developing baby. Vardenafil is present in the body for only a short time after each dose and is not transferred in any meaningful amount through semen.

If your partner is pregnant or breastfeeding, you can continue to take vardenafil as prescribed without concern for her health or the baby's development. The medicine works locally in your body to improve erectile function and does not have systemic effects that would be passed on during intercourse or through other contact.

Some couples worry about taking any medicine during the conception period, and this is understandable. However, the evidence clearly shows that vardenafil does not interfere with conception, pregnancy, or fetal development [5]. If you have specific concerns, discuss them with your GP or the prescriber during your consultation, but you can be reassured that using vardenafil while trying for a baby is considered safe.

When to get urgent help

• Erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) – go to A&E immediately
• Sudden loss of vision or hearing after taking vardenafil – seek urgent medical help
• Chest pain during or after sex – stop activity and call 999 if pain does not resolve quickly
• Severe dizziness, fainting, or allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) – call 999

Call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency, or contact NHS 111 for urgent advice.

Vardenafil and Fertility: Key Points to Remember

Vardenafil is a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction that does not negatively affect male fertility, sperm quality, or the ability to conceive a child [5]. It works by improving blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal and does not interfere with sperm production or hormonal balance. Men taking vardenafil can continue to use it while trying to start a family, and by treating ED, the medicine may actually improve the chances of conception by enabling regular intercourse.

If you have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, or if you have other concerns about fertility, it is important to see your GP for a full assessment [2]. Fertility issues can affect either partner, and early investigation can identify any problems and guide appropriate treatment. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, exercising, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can support both erectile function and fertility.

At Cured Pharmacy, vardenafil is available from £16.95 following an online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber. You can discuss any concerns about fertility or other health matters during the consultation, and the prescriber will ensure the treatment is safe and suitable for you. All ED medicines at Cured Pharmacy require a prescription and are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy.

How to Get Vardenafil from Cured Pharmacy

To order vardenafil from Cured Pharmacy, complete a short online consultation that covers your medical history, current medications, and any other relevant health information. A UK-registered prescriber will review your answers and, if appropriate, issue a prescription. Your medicine is then dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered discreetly to your door. If you have questions about vardenafil and fertility or any other aspect of your treatment, you can ask during the consultation or contact our pharmacy team for advice.

Choose your treatment

Select from our recommended UK-licensed medications.

Answer quick questions

Select safe UK treatments. Quick answers.

Get it delivered fast

We will deliver direct to you as quickly as tomorrow.