Smoking may reduce chances of having a baby, WHO warns

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that smoking may reduce the chances of conceiving and could harm fertility in both men and women. In a knowledge summary, WHO stated that tobacco use is associated with infertility in women, harmful effects on sperm and sexual function in men, and potentially lower chances of success with some fertility treatments.

The agency also cautioned that non-smokers may face reproductive risks through exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke. According to WHO, a systematic review of studies conducted between 2000 and 2026 found that women who currently smoke tobacco have a 40% higher risk of infertility than those who do not smoke. Quitting smoking could reduce this risk by 25%.

The WHO also highlighted that smoking is linked to reproductive dysfunction in men, including semen abnormalities and sexual dysfunction. Research involving 21 studies found that cigarette smoking was associated with fewer pregnancies and live births following assisted reproduction, with the chances of successful outcomes potentially halved by smoking.

WHO further warned that second-hand smoke exposure could also affect fertility, although evidence concerning newer tobacco and nicotine products remains limited. The agency recommended that healthcare providers inform individuals and couples planning pregnancy about the reproductive risks associated with tobacco use and provide evidence-based support.

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