The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that tobacco use can negatively affect reproductive health and make it more difficult for both men and women to have children.

The global health agency said evidence from decades of research shows that smoking is linked to infertility, reduced reproductive function and poorer outcomes for people seeking fertility treatment.

Smoking Increases Infertility Risk in Women

According to WHO, women who smoke face a significantly higher risk of infertility compared with women who do not use tobacco.

The organisation said smokers may experience difficulties conceiving because tobacco affects reproductive processes involved in pregnancy.

“Smoking very likely makes it harder to have a baby,” WHO stated in its latest publication.

Dr Kerstin Schotte, a Medical Officer with the WHO Tobacco Free Initiative, encouraged people planning pregnancy to quit smoking.

“For all people who plan pregnancies, our message is: Stop smoking, improve your health, improve your reproductive health as well,” she said.

Infertility Affects Millions Worldwide

WHO defines infertility as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.

The agency estimates that infertility affects approximately one in six people globally, affecting countries across all income levels.

WHO stressed that while some causes of infertility cannot be prevented, tobacco use is a major risk factor that individuals can address.

Smoking Also Damages Male Fertility

WHO said infertility should not be viewed as only a women’s health issue.

The organisation cited research involving more than 60,000 men, showing links between smoking and male reproductive problems.

According to WHO, tobacco use may contribute to: Reduced sperm quality, poor sperm movement, abnormal sperm shape, lower sperm count, erectile difficulties, ejaculation problems

The agency said smoking affects both reproductive ability and sexual function in men.

Second-Hand Smoke Also Poses Risks

WHO warned that people who do not smoke may still face fertility risks through exposure to second-hand smoke.

The organisation said exposure to tobacco smoke from others may reduce the chances of conception among women.

It urged couples and families to create smoke-free environments, particularly when planning pregnancy.

Quitting Smoking Improves Fertility Outlook

The WHO publication highlighted the benefits of stopping tobacco use.

It said former smokers had a lower infertility risk compared with people who continued smoking.

The agency encouraged tobacco users to seek professional support to quit, noting that healthcare providers should routinely discuss smoking cessation with individuals planning pregnancy.

Smoking May Reduce IVF Success

WHO also warned that tobacco use could affect the success of assisted reproductive treatments, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

The organisation cited previous research involving multiple studies that linked cigarette smoking with fewer pregnancies and live births following fertility treatment.

The findings indicated that smoking could significantly reduce the likelihood of successful fertility outcomes.

Emerging Tobacco Products Also Raise Concerns

WHO said reproductive risks may also exist with other nicotine products, including: Water pipes, commonly known as shisha or hookah , e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products

However, the agency noted that research on some newer products is still developing.

It said current evidence suggests these products may also pose reproductive health concerns, but more studies are needed.

WHO Calls for Stronger Smoking Cessation Support

The global health agency urged healthcare professionals to discuss tobacco risks with couples who are preparing for pregnancy.

WHO recommended evidence-based quitting support, including brief smoking cessation advice as part of routine healthcare services.

The organisation said quitting tobacco is one of the practical steps individuals can take to improve their overall health and reproductive chances.

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals, including nicotine and toxic substances that can affect the body’s reproductive systems.

In woman Smoking may: Damage egg quality, affect hormone balance, reduce chances of conception, increase pregnancy complications

In Men, Smoking may: Reduce sperm production, damage sperm DNA, affect sperm movement, increase erectile problems

Smoking can interfere with procedures such as IVF by reducing the likelihood of successful implantation and pregnancy.