Can e-cigarettes damage your sperm?

Can e-cigarettes damage your sperm?

A new study released from the University of Copenhagen has identified a troubling link between the use of e-cigarettes and reduced semen quality.

We have posted previously about the harmful effect cigarettes can have on the quality of your sperm and why it is so important to quit smoking if you are wanting to start a family, however the use of e-cigarettes hasn’t been fully investigated, until recently. Smoking can cause a dysfunction in the Sertoli and Leydig cells, specialised cells located in the tests that are responsible for the production of healthy sperm. Impairment to these testicular cells result in damage to the testes, alterations of male reproductive hormones and often result in reduced semen quality.

Researchers from the Department of Growth and Reproduction at the University of Copenhagen analysed the reproductive hormone levels of men and their semen parameters, and looked at their lifestyles, which included smoking behaviours. Approximately half the population of the study group were cigarette smokers and 13% used e-cigarettes. Compared to non-smokers, the study found that daily e-cigarette smokers had a significantly lower sperm concentration as did normal cigarette smokers.

Although e-cigarettes contain fewer components than actual cigarettes, the composition of the e-liquid created for e-cigarettes appears to cause histopathological changes in the testes, revealing adverse effects. Furthermore, additional studies that have come out of The University of North Carolina have supported these findings. The research shows a strong correlation between the use of e-cigarettes and significant delays in embryo implantation, as well as long term health implications and abnormal metabolism of female offspring when e-cigarettes are used during pregnancy.

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.