Smoking & Fertility: Time to Quit
Over the years, we’ve learned more and more about how smoking negatively affects health. These days, most people understand that smoking can cause serious heart, vascular and lung problems. But a less commonly known fact about smoking is that it can also damage reproductive health in both men and women. Men and women who use tobacco products are twice as likely to experience infertility and to struggle with getting pregnant than those who do not. And, unfortunately, exposure to secondhand smoke is no exception. That’s because the carcinogens and heavy metals found in cigarettes and other tobacco products can cause the following reproductive issues: Damage to genetic material in eggs, leading to reduced egg quality Decreased ovarian reserve Decreased sperm count, quality and mobility Higher risk of miscarriage Earlier onset of menopause Erectile dysfunction Pregnancy complications Increased risk for prostate and cervical cancer The good news is, changing your lifestyle by qu