Big tobacco companies often glamourize smoking and vaping, marketing them as cool and attractive. The truth, however, is quite different and concerning. Both smoking and vaping can significantly damage a person's sexual health. Smoking is linked to issues such as erectile dysfunction, reduced fertility chances, and decreased sexual desire due to its impact on blood circulation. Vaping, which may appear safer, can also negatively affect sexual health and disrupt reproductive system functionality. Despite the fun image these companies promote, both smoking and vaping can actually worsen intimacy and energy levels, rather than improving them.
Here are three key impacts:
1. Erectile dysfunction:
Smoking is a blood circulation wrecker. It damages blood vessels, leading to a host of health issues, including heart disease and stroke, says Mumbai-based sexologist Anshuman Nagar. It's also been linked to a higher risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). Research from Baylor University suggests that heavy smokers, those puffing over 20 cigarettes daily, doubled their risk of severe erectile dysfunction compared to lighter smokers. The longer someone smokes, the more they increase their ED risk.
2. Decreased sex drive:
Studies hint at a connection between smoking and diminished libido, especially in men. A study involving 6,754 men aged 50-75 found that current smokers had a higher likelihood of low sex drive. This could be partly due to nicotine's impact on mental health, exacerbating depression and anxiety, which can dampen libido for both men and women, says Nagar.
3. Infertility:
Smoking throws a wrench into fertility plans in multiple ways. It damages genetic material in eggs and sperm, upping the odds of miscarriage, preterm labour, and birth defects. Men aren't spared either; smoking decreases sperm count and motility. Even menstrual cycles can be affected, impacting pregnancy chances. Secondhand smoke isn't innocent either, posing fertility challenges to non-smokers.
It doesn't end there. Smoking has a broader impact on sexual function and overall health. It's associated with various health problems like cancer, heart disease, and chronic lung conditions. These health issues can indirectly influence sexual function, leading to sexual dysfunction, an ongoing difficulty with sexual response, desire, orgasm, or pain.
The female perspective:
Women aren't spared from smoking's effects either. Reduced arousal is a common issue, with smoking damaging blood vessels and restricting blood flow. This can lead to difficulty achieving orgasm and reduced sensations of arousal. Smoking can even cause early menopause, as smokers may experience a decline in estrogen levels, which impacts arousal and overall sexual health.
Fertility and pregnancy:
For both genders, smoking poses fertility challenges. Women who smoke could have difficulty in conceiving due to smoking's impact on reproductive health. Smoking while pregnant increases risks like miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.
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