How Smoking Affects Fertility
Smoking's effects on lung and heart health are well known, but its impact on fertility is often overlooked. It affects the quality of reproductive cells in both women and men.
Effect on Female Fertility
Chemicals in cigarette smoke can accelerate the decline of ovarian reserve and reduce egg quality. Smokers may take longer to conceive naturally, and fewer eggs may be retrieved during IVF.
Effect on Male Fertility
Smoking can negatively affect sperm count, motility, and shape, and increase DNA damage in sperm. These effects can lower the chance of pregnancy both naturally and with treatment.
The good news is that the benefits of quitting become measurable within just a few months.
We recommend couples planning treatment quit smoking at least three months before starting; this is usually enough time for a noticeable improvement in both egg and sperm quality.
- Helps preserve ovarian reserve
- Improves sperm parameters
- May reduce the risk of miscarriage
- Supports overall health during treatment
