Vaping is the act of inhaling vaporized nicotine or other substances using electronic cigarettes or similar devices. As vaping becomes more popular, especially among the younger generation, there is growing concern about its potential health risks. Although vaping may be marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, it is not without its risks. Contrary to common misconception, vaping is not a risk-free alternative to smoking. Many of the compounds found in tobacco smoke are associated with e-cigarette aerosols, some of which are either the original ingredients or chemical reaction byproducts of the heating process.
One potential concern is the effect of vaping on fertility in both men and women. It is important to understand the potential effects of vaping on fertility in men and women. This can help individuals make informed decisions about their use of vaping products and inform public health policies related to these products. (Also read: Vaping Misconceptions: Are Flavored E-Cigarettes Safe or Restrictive Lung Disease? )
Dr. Gunjan Saverwal, Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist, IVF Fertility Center in Gurgaon, HT Lifestyle, shares the effects of steam on male and female fertility.
What is an e-cigarette?
E-cigarettes, often referred to as vapes, are battery-operated devices that contain a heated liquid to be inhaled, similar to cigarettes. The liquid itself is made up of nicotine, flavoring, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and other ingredients. Inhaled aerosols are formed when the liquid is heated. E-cigarettes come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can resemble traditional cigarettes, pipes, pens, cigars and pipes. Many e-cigarette flavors are created to appeal to young people, from fruity, and chocolate to minty flavors to candy or desserts. While vaping may seem innocent, e-cigarette ingredients are all safe.
Effects of Steam on Fertility:
An emerging field of research may one day send shivers of anxiety to women in their twenties and thirties who want to become mothers. Toxins found in vape liquids can be just as dangerous as those in cigarette smoke, causing early menopause and ectopic pregnancy. and decreased egg quality. Furthermore, vaping during pregnancy can negatively affect prenatal development and hinder the growth of children and newborns.
In an October 2019 study in the Journal of the Endocrine Society, researchers found that the combination of nicotine and other chemicals in e-cigarettes can cause problems with embryo implantation and fetal growth in the uterus. It was found that mice exposed to e-cigarette vapor experienced significant delays in the onset of their first litters and problems with embryo implantation. Pregnant rats exposed to the vapor had “altered metabolic, inflammatory, neurological and pulmonary variables.”
Men who use e-cigarettes have also been found to have lower sperm counts and lower sperm motility. Beyond concerns about nicotine and chemicals, researchers at the University College of London looked at the relationship between vaping and fertility and found that water, food-grade flavors, nicotine levels, and vaping flavors containing propylene glycol can adversely affect sperm. The results of the study revealed that vaping juice seriously reduces fertility: cinnamon-flavored vaping juice adversely affects sperm motility, while bubblegum flavoring destroys testicular cells.
Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Tobacco Control examined the relationship between secondhand smoke and early menopause. It was found that non-smokers experienced menopause 13 months earlier than non-smokers with higher levels of exposure to secondhand smoke.
Way forward:
Avoiding all nicotine and vaping is the right move if you want to get pregnant in the future. However, vaping or smoking can be difficult to break.
Professional help: Seek guidance from a psychologist/psychiatrist to help you break free from this dangerous habit. Counseling, community help, and support from loved ones are often crucial in resisting urges and temptations when going through this difficult and challenging phase of life.
Exercise: Daily practice early in the morning helps strengthen your mind, body and spirit and prepares you to face your challenges.
Healthy diet and good sleep: As part of every wellness journey, it is very important to ensure that a healthy, well-balanced diet and good sleep are included.
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