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Smoking significantly affects both men's and women's fertility. It can lower sperm counts in men, hinder sperm motility, and harm sperm DNA, all of which can result in lower fertility. Smoking can damage a woman's ovaries, lower the quality of her eggs, and cause early menopause. Furthermore, smoking can make it more difficult for a couple to conceive and raise the chance of pregnancy complications.

Giving up smoking can enhance reproductive health and fertility, making it simpler to start a family and ensuring a healthier environment for the mother and the unborn child. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Anusha Rao P, a consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad, discussed how smoking doubles infertility rates in both mothers and fathers alike affected.

Quitting smoking can improve reproductive health, simplify family formation, and create a healthier environment for both mother and unborn child.(Image Credit:Freepik)

According to Dr. Anusha, smoking adversely affects fertility in both males and females, primarily due to the harmful substances present in tobacco, such as nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. These substances can lead to significant reproductive health issues.

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In females, smoking can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can damage the ovarian follicles, leading to a decrease in both the quantity and quality of eggs. This can result in irregular menstrual cycles and premature menopause. Furthermore, smoking can impair the fallopian tubes, increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo implants outside the uterus. These factors can significantly reduce a woman's ability to conceive. Additionally, smoking during pregnancy can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, and low birth weight.

For males, smoking has been linked to reduced sperm quality. The toxins in cigarettes can lead to decreased sperm count, motility (the ability of sperm to move), and morphology (the shape and structure of sperm). Nicotine and other harmful substances can induce oxidative stress, which damages sperm DNA, potentially leading to infertility. Moreover, smoking can affect the seminal fluid, which is crucial for the transport and nourishment of sperm. Erectile dysfunction is another consequence of smoking, as it can impair blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection, thereby indirectly affecting fertility.

Smoking also damages women's ovaries, eggs, and early menopause. Pregnancy complications are also increased.(Image Credit:Freepik)

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Dr. Anusha concluded by stating that both partners smoking can further compound these effects, reducing the likelihood of conception. Studies indicate that couples who smoke are more likely to experience infertility and take longer to conceive compared to non-smoking couples. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective strategies to enhance reproductive health and increase the chances of conception for both men and women.