HomeAnswersNeurologyspina bifidaWhat fertility problems do people with spina bifida have?

Do people who have spina bifida develop fertility issues?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Vivek Chail

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At April 13, 2015
Reviewed AtDecember 29, 2018

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Do people who have spina bifida and have urinary and bowel incontinence also have fertility issues?

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand that you are inquiring about spina bifida causing fertility related problems in humans. The nerve damage in spina bifida that affects urinary and bowel functions may also affect sexual functioning. It has been found that most males and females with spina bifida are fertile. Many of the issues surrounding reduced fertility in spina bifida are due to mechanical and anatomical reasons.

75% of men with spina bifida achieve erections, but maintaining erections is a problem, and some may be merely reflexive in nature. Most of these men show marked improvement with Sildenafil though ejaculation may not occur in all men. Most of the women with spina bifida are fertile.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vivek Chail
Dr. Vivek Chail

General Practitioner

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Neurology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy