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 quitting smoking can help improve fertility and your overall health. If you’re thinking about quitting, Drs. Lee and Kelly Caperton with Caperton Fertility Institute suggests starting with the book Allen Carr’s Easy Way to Stop Smoking. (Click here to listen to Dr. Caperton’s take on why it’s a good idea to quit smoking if you’re trying to get pregnant.)

We understand that quitting smoking is challenging. The team at CFI is available to help you access resources and to cheer you on as you quit smoking. Our fertility doctors, advanced-care practitioners, and staff provide compassionate care, advanced technology and cutting-edge medical expertise to support you on your journey to parenthood. To learn more, visit www.capertonfertility.com.