WHO Warns Smoking Reduces Fertility Chances Significantly

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a warning that smoking can significantly decrease a person's chances of conceiving, with evidence showing tobacco use is linked to infertility in women, poor sperm quality, and sexual dysfunction in men. The WHO's summary of evidence indicates that about one in six people of reproductive age experience infertility.

A systematic review found that women who smoke have a 40% higher risk of infertility compared to non-smokers, while those who quit smoking reduce their risk by 25%. In men, smoking is associated with reproductive issues such as erectile dysfunction, abnormal semen, and reduced sperm motility.

The WHO also noted that smoking can halve the success rates of fertility treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Additionally, exposure to second-hand smoke may increase infertility risks for women.

The WHO cautions that while the evidence is strongest for conventional cigarettes, emerging products like e-cigarettes and waterpipes may also pose fertility risks.