Smoking and Infertility

It's a fact that smoking and infertility go hand in hand. Women who are smokers are at a higher risk of infertility complications.

Exposure to cigarette smoke for even a few days can cause changes in the health of your eggs and embryos. And if you've been smoking for a long period of time, your chances of having permanent reproductive damage are greater.

Can smoking cause infertility when it's just secondhand smoke?

Absolutely. Your hormones must work in harmony to make a baby. When you smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke, nicotine and other toxic substances in cigarettes upset your natural hormonal balance.

These chemicals can cause other problems like ovulation and tubal problems, and even genetic abnormalities in your embryos. Chemicals in cigarette smoke also affect reproductive health by reducing the number of healthy eggs you have, which might lead to infertility, sterility or premature menopause.

Can smoking cause infertility with Assisted Reproductive Technology?

Again, the answer is yes. Smoking and infertility are linked even for women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Studies show smokers have a reduced chance of success with ART. In fact, smokers usually need more ovulation-inducing medications than their non-smoking peers. This is because of problems with ovulation and egg health. If you smoke and are able to get pregnant with ART, it may take twice as long as usual.

Can smoking cause infertility problems like miscarriage?

The answer is yes. Scientists aren't exactly sure how smoking and infertility are linked or why smokers have a higher chance of miscarriage. Preterm labor and ectopic pregnancies are also reported in higher numbers in smokers than in non-smokers.

If you are pregnant, stop smoking now. Do it for yourself—and your unborn child.

Can smoking cause infertility problems in men?

You bet. For men, cigarette smoking increases problems such as lower sperm counts and motility, as well as hormonal problems and erectile dysfunction.

Can fertility return if you stop smoking?

Studies show that women who stop smoking for at least two months before trying to get pregnant will increase their chances of conceiving.

If you've been unsuccessful in quitting, ask your doctor for help. Cigarette smoking is addictive and may be hard to stop without professional help. There are many smoking cessation products and programs your doctor will be able to recommend to you.

If you are having a hard time quitting, let your dreams of having a healthy baby inspire you to stop smoking now.

Remember: when you stop smoking and your chances of being fertility return. Do it today!

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