Sexual and reproductive health in people with Down syndrome

Boys with Down syndrome undergo puberty at a similar age to the general population. More than 25% have undescended testes (ie cryptorchidism); for advice and other health considerations in males with developmental disability, see Men’s health.

Men with Down syndrome are usually infertile, but a few have fathered children.

Menarche occurs at the usual time in teenage girls with Down syndrome and most young women ovulate, although their fertility is reduced. For advice on contraception and menstrual management in females with developmental disability, see here. For other health considerations in females with developmental disability, see Women’s health.

It is uncommon for females with Down syndrome to become pregnant. See also Pregnancy in a female with developmental disability. Women with Down syndrome have a higher risk of premature delivery, and of delivering infants with low birth weight, Down syndrome or other developmental disability. Other maternal medical problems (eg cardiac abnormalities, epilepsy) may further complicate pregnancy.

People with Down syndrome may wish to become parents and have equal rights to do so. The general practitioner (GP) has a role in discussing these wishes with the person. Refer to specialist obstetric services for information and decision-making support, genetic counselling, and pre-pregnancy, antenatal and postnatal care.

For resources for people with developmental disability, including Down syndrome, who wish to become parents, see Family planning and parenting.