How dangerous is testosterone to a pregant woman

[Bec524]

This morning I gave a friend a hug. He later told me he is on testosterone therapy. Apparently he applies a topical gel to his shoulder area. I am 18 wks pregnant and overly anxious about my baby's health. I googled the subject and everything I found said it can be very harmful to the baby and if  pregnant woman comes into contact with the gel it is important to wash it right off. I probably did not get any of the gel on my skin, but assuming I did, how dangerous is it? I mean...one time...small amount...is it really that big of a deal?

[NOHARD]

Hi Bec , look both men and women have testosterone, and I think you will find that if he is useing gel then its quite possible that he is useing it on his p***s, so unless you've been touching that you should be OK, like did google it, and yes they do say prenant women should not be useing it, but if you google testosterone gel and women you get a differant results, so the picture gets even more confusing.
But just shaking hands your safe.
Good Luck

[Otuosstep]

If my husband is using testosterone gel can it make me not to get pregnant

[AnnieBrooke]

It might be better if it prevented pregnancy than if it caused birth defects in an existing pregnancy, which the literature suggests it can do.

Here is from another website:

"Testosterone gel can cause side effects in women and children who come in contact with it on the man's skin or clothing. Children may develop aggressive behavior, enlarged genitals, and pubic hair. Women may develop unwanted hair growth or acne. Testosterone transfer is especially dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause birth defects.

"Women and children who are exposed to testosterone products should call their doctor right away.

"To prevent these problems, the man using the gel should not allow skin-to-skin contact of the treated area with other people. He should keep the treated area covered or wash it well before letting others touch him. Also, others should not touch any bedding and clothing that may have absorbed testosterone from the man's skin."

So, though nothing suggests it is a block to getting pregnant, it sounds like you need to be very careful not to touch the parts of your husband's skin that have had the gel on them, and you also need to have him do his own laundry and sheets. That way if you do get pregnant, there is no risk to the baby.

Why don't you ask your doctor, or the doctor who prescribed your husband's testosterone, for specific information about your risks from the gel he is using?

[thatquietgirl]

I think it's more if you're using it that it would be harmful, but remember, just a little bit can hold a lot and diffuse over time, so if you were to get it on you, do wash it off.  Just be careful of touching your friend's shoulder area if he's wearing a sleeveless shirt.  Otherwise, you'll be fine.