It has been documented for decades that tobacco smoking has a detrimental impact on fertility, but do e-cigarettes affect fertility?
E-cigarettes, or vaping, developed as an alternative to traditional tobacco smoking. Vaping involves inhaling nicotine, usually heated and mixed with flavours and other substances. Nicotine is highly addictive, yet the global use or vaping has risen exponentially.
There are different type of e-cigarettes such us Cigalike, Vape pen, Box mod and Vape pod. The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use are unknown.
Recently the scientific Journal Human Reproduction published the first human study on the association of e-cigarette and male fertility. The study shows that daily e-cigarette use is linked with lower sperm counts in men. Evidence suggests that substances in the e-cigarettes affect testicular function and consequently sperm production.
This could have negative implications on couples trying to achieve a pregnancy. In addition, studies in human and animal models have clearly reported that that the use of e-cigarettes by women impairs egg quality, implantation, conception, and pregnancy. As proven by research and studies, staying away from e-cigarette smoking might be a good idea for those planning to have IVF or ICSI treatment.
For more information and advice on e-cigarettes please visit the NHS Smokefree website.
