Can a man treat psoriasis while trying to start a family?

Use a condom while she’s pregnant 

After the woman becomes pregnant, a man can start taking methotrexate again. If he does, he should use condoms while having sex during her pregnancy.

How to stop taking methotrexate

Before stopping methotrexate, see your dermatologist (or the doctor who prescribed it). You may need to start another treatment to prevent the psoriasis from worsening. 

Suddenly stopping methotrexate can cause psoriasis to flare. It can also cause you to develop a more serious type of psoriasis. 

Men and methotrexate

Dermatologists recommend that a man stop taking methotrexate for 3 months before trying to get a woman pregnant.

Related AAD resources

• Can a woman treat psoriasis while pregnant or breastfeeding?

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References
Callen JP. “Does paternal exposure to methotrexate affect birth outcomes?” (summary and comment). Journal Watch: NEJM. 2011 Jun 11. Last accessed October 27, 2015.

Menter A, Korman NJ, et al. “Guidelines of care for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis Section 4. Guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with traditional systemic agents.” J Am Acad Dermatol2009;61:451-85.