Doctors across India are raising concerns about a dangerous trio—smoking, alcohol, and vaping—that is silently harming fertility in both men and women. These habits, they warn, are not only affecting reproductive health but also increasing the risks of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancies, and birth defects.
According to a recent PTI report, experts from Motherhood Hospitals and Nova IVF Fertility believe that while many people recognize stress and age as common causes of infertility, they often ignore how harmful these substances can be.
Lifestyle Choices That Leave a Lasting Impact
Dr. Anuja Thomas, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharghar, says these are not just private habits. “People often think that stopping smoking or drinking only when they’re planning to conceive is enough. But this is a dangerous myth,” she explained.
She added that the damage from smoking, drinking, and vaping can be long-term. These substances can hurt reproductive organs, upset hormone levels, and even affect the health of future children.
Effects on Women and Men Alike
Dr. Manju Gupta, a senior gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Noida, emphasized how smoking harms both women and men. “In women, smoking causes a faster loss of eggs, harms the fallopian tubes, and increases the risk of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy,” she said.
It also damages the uterus, making it harder for an embryo to implant. For men, smoking reduces sperm count and causes DNA damage in sperm. This damage can lead to birth defects or pregnancy loss.
She also warned that secondhand smoke is just as harmful. Many people wrongly believe that quitting a few months before trying to conceive is enough to undo the damage.
Vaping Is Not a Safer Alternative
Dr. Neha Tripathi, a fertility expert at Nova IVF Fertility in Delhi NCR, cautioned against assuming vaping is safe. “Vaping disrupts hormones and harms egg development just like smoking,” she said.
She explained that chemicals in vape liquids damage the uterine lining and reduce egg quality. Dr. Tripathi also pointed out that alcohol can affect ovulation and cause hormonal imbalances over time. In men, alcohol, smoking, and vaping can lower sperm count and testosterone levels, making conception more difficult.
Increased Cancer Risk Adds to the Danger
The dangers don’t end with fertility. Dr. Gaurav Jaswal, a radiation oncologist at TGH Onco Life Cancer Centre in Talegaon, warned that these habits also raise cancer risks.
“Smoking, alcohol, and vaping can damage DNA, weaken the immune system, and cause chronic inflammation,” he explained. “This increases the risk of several cancers in women, including breast, cervical, oral, and lung cancer.”
Early Prevention Is Key
All the doctors interviewed agreed that people need to act early—long before they start planning a family. The earlier people quit these harmful habits, the better their chances for good reproductive and long-term health.
“It’s never too late to quit, but starting early makes a big difference,” said Dr. Jaswal. “Women especially should make informed choices and get professional help if needed.”
Related topics:
