Sex, pregnancy & benzodiazepines

Taking medication can often affect sexual activity and it is important to consider potential risks of taking medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Sex

Benzodiazepines do not have any known significant direct effects on people’s sex lives. However, their sedative effect may have an impact on sex life.

Pregnancy


Benzodiazepines are best avoided during pregnancy. During the first three months exposure to benzodiazepines is associated with a high risk of oral clefts in newborns. Exposure during the last three months is commonly associated with neonatal difficulties. If you are planning to have a baby, you are advised to contact your doctor about options. 

Breastfeeding

Generally, if a mother is taking medication, the benefits of breastfeeding need to be weighed up with the risks of the infant being exposed to the the medication through her breast milk. If you are considering breastfeeding whilst taking benzodiazepines, you are advised to speak to your doctor about your options. 

Diazepam is excreted in the breast milk from a virtually undetectable rate to nearly 14%. In some infants no adverse effects were noted. Other infants showed adverse effects including sedation, lethargy and weight loss. Lorazepam, temazepam and clonazepam are excreted in the breast milk in small amounts but few adverse effects are reported.