Can I smoke while trying for a baby?

By Dr. Shweta Goswami

We make many lifestyle changes while trying to have a baby like by limiting the coffee or alcohol intake But not all changes are equally easy to make. Caffeine, for example, is addictive, it has nicotine. If you are a smoker, you probably already know that you should stop smoking during your pregnancy, but can you smoke while trying to conceive? Many surveys and researches have been conducted in the past which says that women who smoke are 60 percent more likely to ne infertile as compare to nonsmokers.

Cigarettes smoking affects your fertility in major way. Following are the ill effects of smoking:

• smoking may affect different stages of reproduction, including hormone production and embryo transport
• smoking may affect ovarian reserve and the quality and quantity of the eggs.
• smokers may also have a lower rate of fertilization during in-vitreo cycles and may have increased risk for miscarriage in an IVF pregnancy.
• smoking marijuana may affect a woman’s menstrual cycle and the development of the gas and the quality of the eggs 

 What happens when you smoke while trying to be pregnant:

A woman may be at risk for complications in the first few weeks of pregnancy if she smokes while trying to conceive due to exposure to harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide and limitations on nutrients and oxygen to the developing embryo. Possible risks include miscarriage, placenta previa, preterm labor, and preterm birth.

Give up smoking if you want to conceive:

Quitting is the best method. One may reduce tobacco usage and taking extra vitamin C may reduce the harmful effects of the chemicals on the fetal lungs. It is best not to use any medication and it's helpful to get rid of smoking paraphernalia and avoid situations that are associated with tobacco use. Eat healthy snacks to avoid cravings for tobacco.

You may also consult your gynecologist to help you in quitting. Change your lifestyle prior to getting pregnant by eating healthy and balanced diet, regular exercise, folic acid and stopping use of tobacco or marijuana. It is extremely important to stop use of tobacco before attempting pregnancy. It can definitely be difficult, but the entire family will benefit ultimately.