Thank you guys. I gotta keep my eye on the prize. You are all so helpful. It's this forum that helped me decide to go through with treatment.
My understanding is that Ribavirin's pregnancy warnings are on the side of caution because of an increase in birth defects in certain laboratory experiments, specifically in hamsters and mice. It appeared to interfere with the embryonic development process in lab animals; because treatment meds are not cyto-toxic, the expectation is that there is no long term effect on conception, just possible risks to a developing fetus.
Thus far, there have been no documented cases of birth defects or miscarriage as a direct result of Riba administration; case reports actually document women and men who had successful pregnancies despite riba exposure, but I do think it's wise to wait the 6-12 months before conception to be on the safe side.
There is one documented case of a man who had altered sperm, but they returned to normal after 9 months post exposure. Hope that helps, and good luck with treatment... don't freak out... you'll be so much happier to be hcv-free during pregnancy and delivery!! ~eureka
Good luck. I am happy you r starting. Wishing u a successful tx with minimal sides
sorry..."it seems some.....
Congrats on getting started Fri. remember side effects are different for everyone.. >you are young and that very well may be in your favor there.
The Ribavirin labeling says you should not try to conceive while treating and for at least six months post tx. Some ..it seems only feel comfortable waiting somewhat longer........ possibly a year.
Good luck...
Will