Does Nicotine Affect Fertility?

If you are planning a pregnancy, trying to conceive, or simply have questions about fertility, you may be wondering about the effects of nicotine. The short answer is that the research is still developing, especially when it comes to nicotine on its own. 

Here’s what current research says about tobacco and nicotine use and fertility in adults. 

Key Takeaways
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  • There is more research on smoking and fertility than on nicotine by itself. 

  • Studies link smoking and tobacco use with possible fertility problems in both men and women.
     
  • Nicotine may affect the body in ways that matter for fertility, but much of the evidence comes from lab or animal studies. 

Nicotine, Tobacco, and Fertility: Why It's Not a Simple Answer

It is hard to answer this question with one simple yes or no. Many studies look at cigarette smoking or tobacco use, not nicotine alone. That matters because cigarette smoke contains nicotine plus many other chemicals.

Nicotine has also been studied on its own. Some research suggests it may affect hormones, ovaries, egg cells, and other parts of the reproductive system. But many of these studies were done using cells or animals exposed to high levels of nicotine, so they do not always show what happens in people. 

 

What Research Says about Male Fertility 

The effect of nicotine on testosterone levels is covered in a different article. For male fertility, researchers often look at sperm count, sperm movement, sperm shape, and hormone levels. Some reviews suggest smoking may be linked with changes in sperm health, but results can vary from study to study.


Research on newer nicotine products and sperm health is still limited. A small 2025 study compared cigarette and e-cigarette use among men in couples who were using in vitro fertilization and concluded that vaping “may be less harmful than conventional cigarettes.” However, a small study of one product type should not be treated as proof about the effects of all nicotine products. 

What Research Says about Female Fertility 

Studies on smoking and female fertility have looked at how long it takes to get pregnant, how the ovaries work, and outcomes from fertility treatments. A 2024 opinion from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine reviewed research on tobacco, nicotine, and fertility.

A 2023 study of women in the United States found that current smokers were more likely to report infertility than women who had never smoked. This study only looked at women who smoked cigarettes. 

Does Nicotine Affect Pregnancy Planning?

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, talk with a healthcare professional about nicotine use. Medical guidance generally recommends avoiding nicotine exposure during pregnancy because nicotine is addictive and may affect fetal development. 

Can Quitting Smoking Improve Fertility?

The main takeaway is cautious: smoking and tobacco use have been linked with fertility concerns, and nicotine may affect the body in ways that matter for reproduction. But the research does not answer every question, especially for newer nicotine products.


Fertility is affected by many things, including age, medical history, hormones, sperm health, and lifestyle. Some research suggests that stopping smoking may benefit reproductive health, but it is best to speak with a healthcare professional about your own situation. 

FAQ

  • Nicotine may affect parts of the body involved in fertility, based mainly on lab and animal studies. In people, the strongest evidence is about smoking and tobacco use, not nicotine alone. 

  • Yes, smoking has been linked with possible fertility concerns in both men and women. The exact risk can vary, so speak with a healthcare professional if you are trying to conceive. 
  • Some studies have looked at smoking, nicotine exposure, and sperm health. They often focus on sperm count, movement, and shape. The evidence is still mixed, especially for newer nicotine products. 
  • If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, ask a healthcare professional about nicotine use. This article is not medical advice. 

Important:

The products sold on this site contain nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical that may increase heart rate and blood pressure and pose risks for individuals with certain medical conditions, particularly cardiovascular disease. These products are intended only for adult (21+) current nicotine users and are not for non-users. Sales to persons under 21 are prohibited.