Alcohol Consumption, Vaping Silently Affect Fertility in Men and Women, Say Experts

Smoking causes DNA damage in sperm, which can lead to miscarriage & birth defects

- 

MUMBAI: With the rising fertility problems among women, doctors say that tobacco, alcohol consumption and vaping are silently harming reproductive health and raising chances of miscarriages.

While smoking increases the risk of a miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy, it also causes DNA damage in sperm, which can lead to miscarriage and birth defects, they say.

Fertility problems are rampant in women and also in men. They are not only affected due to age, stress, or reproductive health problems but also due to smoking, drinking, and vaping, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, consultant-obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Anuja Thomas told PTI.

"These vices are often seen as personal choices, but they impact fertility as well. Many people believe that reducing or pausing these habits only when planning a pregnancy is enough," she said.

However, it is necessary to completely avoid these vices as these substances can cause damage to the reproductive organs, hormones, and even the health of future offspring, Dr Thomas said.