{
  "id": 5812646,
  "title": "Planning for parenthood? Could tobacco be getting in the way?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/05/planning-for-parenthood-could-tobacco-be-getting-in-the-way",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-05T18:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Star BD Health",
    "slug": "daily-star-bd-health",
    "url": "https://www.thedailystar.net/health/news/planning-parenthood-could-tobacco-be-getting-the-way-4265666"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "When couples start considering parenthood, they often make lifestyle adjustments to support a healthy pregnancy. However, the presence of tobacco inside the home could be negatively impacting their efforts. Cigarettes, vape devices, and even dry tobacco leaves, known as zarda, may be silently interfering with efforts to conceive. While most people associate tobacco with cancer, heart disease and breathing complications, its influence on fertility is often overlooked. Smoking disrupts a woman's reproductive system, making pregnancy more difficult and potentially leading to complications. Men aren't immune to the effects either, as tobacco can reduce sperm count, impair movement and degrade sperm quality. In addition, tobacco use can lead to erectile dysfunction. Thus, infertility is not solely a \"women's issue,\" and both partners should be involved in discussions regarding tobacco use. While cigarettes are the most common form, other products like bidis, water pipes, vaping devices, and smokeless tobacco also expose the body to nicotine and harmful substances. In Bangladesh, zarda and gul are sometimes seen as socially acceptable or less dangerous due to their non-smoking nature. However, this does not mean they are harmless. Even vaping should not be considered safe for couples trying to conceive. An overlooked victim of tobacco use is the non-smoking partner. Secondhand smoke from any source can contaminate indoor air, putting spouses, children and other family members at risk. The only effective solution is to avoid smoking completely inside the home or car. The World Health Organization will be addressing the relationship between tobacco and fertility on September 9th, focusing on new tobacco products and the impact of secondhand smoke. Quitting smoking can be challenging due to nicotine dependence, but support from a doctor, a set quit date and encouragement from family members can make the process more achievable. Partners can assist by removing tobacco products, refraining from placing blame and maintaining a smoke-free environment. When seeking fertility advice, individuals should disclose all tobacco-related habits. Doctors should inquire about tobacco use from both partners, rather than assuming one person's habits are more significant. While quitting smoking may not guarantee pregnancy, removing tobacco from the equation is a positive step towards ensuring a healthier conception, pregnancy and future child. The best gift a child could receive is clean, smoke-free air.",
  "summary": "Couples preparing for pregnancy may change their diet, track fertile days and take vitamins.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}