Preparing for pregnancy is very important for both couples, and an important factor in men\’s preparation for pregnancy is whether to quit smoking. What impact will men have on fertility if they don’t quit smoking in preparation for pregnancy? The following will provide detailed answers from three aspects: sperm quality, reproductive capacity and child health.
1. Impaired sperm quality:
Smoking in men can cause damage to sperm quality. Studies have shown that sperm count, motility and morphology are adversely affected in men who smoke. The harmful substances caused by smoking will reduce the mobility and viability of sperm, cause abnormal sperm morphology, and increase the proportion of abnormal sperm. These problems can negatively impact fertilization and embryonic development, reducing the chance of a successful pregnancy.
2. Reduced reproductive capacity:
Smoking can lead to reduced male reproductive capacity. Studies have found that smokers\’ sperm concentration and semen volume are relatively lower, and their sperm motility is poor. This can make it difficult for sperm to fertilize successfully once it enters a woman\’s body, affecting the likelihood of pregnancy. In addition, smoking can also have a toxic effect on the testicles, reduce testicular function, and thus affect sperm production and quality.
3. Increased health risks for children:
Continuing to smoke while a man is trying to conceive will increase the health risks of his child. Smoking can cause DNA damage and genetic mutations, which may be passed on to the next generation through sperm. Children of smokers are more likely to have congenital heart disease, cleft lip and palate, and intellectual development problems. In addition, smoking increases the risk of adverse outcomes such as fetal growth retardation, premature birth, and low birth weight.
In order to avoid the adverse effects of smoking on fertility when men are preparing for pregnancy, it is recommended that men quit smoking as soon as possible. Quitting smoking can help improve sperm quality, improve fertility, and reduce your child\’s risk of health problems. In addition, men should also pay attention to avoid exposure to second-hand smoke while preparing for pregnancy, because second-hand smoke can also have a negative impact on fertility.
In the process of quitting smoking, men can try some methods to reduce the discomfort caused by quitting smoking. For example, gradually reduce the frequency and quantity of smoking, seek support and understanding from family and friends, seek professional smoking cessation counseling or drug treatment, etc. In addition, improving living habits, maintaining a good diet, adequate sleep and moderate exercise can also help improve fertility.
In short, men who do not quit smoking in preparation for pregnancy will have many negative effects on fertility. In order to protect the health of the couple and their children, it is recommended that men resolutely quit smoking during pregnancy preparations and actively take measures to improve their living habits and improve their fertility.
