New Cystic Fibrosis Guidelines Expand Reproductive Care, Address Fertility, Pregnancy, and Contraception - Video

Advances in cystic fibrosis treatment are changing reproductive possibilities, allowing more women with the condition to conceive naturally and plan for parenthood. New clinical guidance highlights the importance of fertility counselling, pregnancy planning and specialised care as patients with cystic fibrosis live longer and healthier lives.

Published in August 2026, the first reproductive health guidance developed by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation recommends introducing age-appropriate reproductive education early and discussing fertility and family planning annually from adolescence.

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. Traditionally, patients faced significant fertility challenges, but newer treatments called cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators have improved health outcomes and reproductive possibilities.

Following the introduction of the triple-combination therapy elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor, pregnancy rates among women with cystic fibrosis nearly doubled in the United States and United Kingdom.

Researchers suggest that these medicines may improve cervical mucus conditions, making natural conception easier for some women.

The guidance emphasises that women with cystic fibrosis should receive counselling about contraception and pregnancy planning, as improved fertility also increases the possibility of unintended pregnancies.

Before conception, patients are advised to undergo assessments of lung function, nutrition, medications and blood glucose levels, alongside genetic counselling.

Pregnancies involving women with cystic fibrosis still require additional monitoring because of increased risks of premature birth and gestational diabetes. Approximately 30% to 40% of adults with cystic fibrosis develop CF-related diabetes.

Importantly, CFTR modulators can cross the placenta and enter breast milk, making individualised medication decisions essential.

For men, fertility remains challenging because more than 95% lack the tubes that transport sperm, although assisted reproductive technologies can support biological parenthood.

The guidance also highlights that prenatal exposure to CFTR modulators may affect newborn screening results, requiring additional genetic testing in certain circumstances.

REFERENCE: Raksha Jain; Reproductive health and cystic fibrosis: New guidance offers options and hope; UT Southwestern Medical Center