In a nutshell
This study reviewed the link between smoking and reduced fertility.
Some background
Smoking is not recommended for pregnant women. It is linked to a number of pregnancy complications. These include miscarriage, low birth weight, and premature labor. The effect of smoking on male and female fertility is less well understood.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) produces guidelines on fertility health. It put together a committee to evaluate the effects of smoking on fertility.
Methods & findings
Smoking is significantly associated with reduced fertility. The more a woman smokes the greater the risk towards fertility. There may be other factors that contribute to this effect.
Smoking may increase the time it takes to become pregnant. Women that smoke may have altered hormone levels including luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicular stimulating hormone (FSH). This may affect the development of ovarian follicles. In men, smoking may have negative effects on sperm quality and number. The extent of this effect is not clear. Some smokers may still have sperm quality/numbers within the normal range.
Smoking can cause damage to the DNA. DNA damage can affect the development of a fetus. Some genetic disorders are linked to maternal smoking including trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Maternal smoking may also be linked to reduced sperm counts in their sons.
Smoking is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage. Smoking may also increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb). Smokers are less likely to conceive following assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Smokers require twice as many IVF cycles as non-smokers. It is unclear if smoking has a direct effect on reproductive processes.
The bottom line
This study reviewed the implication of smoking in reduced fertility.
Published By :
Fertility and Sterility
Date :
Sep 01, 2018
