How does smoking affect my fertility and pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 31-year-old female and have been smoking for almost 10 years now, and I am very determined to quit now, especially since my husband and I are planning on trying to have a baby next year. Lately, I have seen several anti-smoking advertisements that warn about the effects of smoking on fertility and pregnancy. I require a particular piece of information.

Can you explain how smoking can affect egg quality, ovulation and risk of miscarriage?
Can I get pregnant if I stop smoking now, or are some of these effects forever?

I also have questions about contraception. I am on oral contraceptive pills. Does smoking increase the risk of complications like blood clots?

I am also wondering if I get pregnant down the road, will my child still be at increased risk of low birth weight or preterm birth, even if I quit smoking now?

Lastly, is it safe to use nicotine replacement therapies for women who are going to be pregnant soon?

Please help.

Thank you for your time and help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com

In women, it may lead to difficulties with ovulation, a longer time to conceive, an increased risk of infertility, and lower success rates with assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF.Smoking during pregnancy has been related to some difficulties such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, premature labour, placental problems, low birth weight and other health hazards to the infant.The good news is that if you quit before or during pregnancy, your chances of getting pregnant can go way up and it cuts the odds of a lot of these dangers for you and your kid. Quitting smoking can improve your egg and sperm quality, your chances of a healthy pregnancy and your baby’s growth. Even if you quit smoking late in pregnancy, you still get major health benefits and reduce the chance of problems.Please don’t be discouraged or fearful about quitting. Seeking support from a healthcare professional can make the process much easier and more effective. I would strongly encourage you to stay in touch with a physician for personalized guidance and also consult an obstetrician/gynecologist as you prepare for pregnancy.

Wishing you the very best on your journey toward better health and future parenthood.

Thanks and regards.