If you vape and are trying to conceive, you might be wondering whether vaping could be affecting your fertility. It is a growing area of interest for both researchers and those planning a family. While vaping is often used as a safer alternative to smoking, it is important to understand whether it has any potential impact on reproductive health.
This guide looks at what we currently know about vaping and fertility, for both men and women, and how to minimise risk if you are planning to start a family.
Does nicotine affect fertility?
Yes, nicotine is known to have an impact on fertility in both men and women. It can affect hormone levels, reduce blood flow and interfere with reproductive function. These effects have been studied in smokers, but because vaping still involves nicotine, similar concerns apply.
Nicotine may lower sperm count and motility in men, while in women it may affect ovulation and reduce the likelihood of successful implantation. It can also impact the quality of cervical mucus and disrupt the hormonal balance needed for conception.
Devices like the Lost Mary BM6000 use nicotine salt e-liquid at 20 milligrams per millilitre, which delivers a strong but smooth dose. If you are trying to conceive, reducing your nicotine intake or cutting it out completely is usually the safest option.
What about nicotine-free vaping?
Vaping without nicotine may seem like a safer option, and it might reduce some of the concerns linked to fertility. However, vapour still contains other ingredients, including flavourings and base liquids, that are inhaled into the body.
There is currently little research on how long-term inhalation of these substances affects reproductive health. While the risk is likely to be lower than with nicotine, it is still best to approach it with caution if you are actively trying to conceive.
Does vaping affect male fertility?
In men, the main concern with vaping is nicotine’s effect on sperm quality. Nicotine can reduce sperm count, slow motility and potentially alter the shape of sperm cells. This can make it more difficult to fertilise an egg.
It can also reduce testosterone levels and interfere with sexual performance in some individuals. These changes are often reversible, especially if nicotine is reduced or stopped over time, but it may take several weeks or months for sperm health to improve.
Does vaping affect female fertility?
In women, nicotine can interfere with the hormonal cycle, reduce blood flow to the reproductive organs and affect the lining of the uterus. This may reduce the chance of conception or make it harder to maintain a pregnancy in the early stages.
Even if you are using a vape to stop smoking, most health professionals recommend reducing nicotine as much as possible before trying to get pregnant. The fewer external influences on hormone balance, the better the chances of natural conception.
What about vaping during fertility treatment?
If you are undergoing IVF or any kind of assisted fertility treatment, your clinic will likely advise you to stop vaping completely. This is because even low levels of nicotine or other chemicals may affect egg quality, sperm health or the implantation process.
Fertility treatment is often expensive and emotionally demanding, so reducing all potential risks is a priority. If you are using vaping as a way to stop smoking, speak to your clinic or GP about the best way to reduce gradually and safely.
How long before trying to conceive should you stop?
Ideally, both partners should stop using nicotine several weeks before trying to conceive. Sperm takes around 70 to 90 days to develop, so any improvements in lifestyle or habits need a bit of time to show up in test results or pregnancy chances.
The same goes for hormonal balance in women. Cutting back early helps your body return to its natural rhythm and prepares the environment for pregnancy.
Want more health advice on vaping?
If you are looking for more articles on how vaping affects different parts of your life and body, visit our full health guides section. These guides cover everything from oral health and lung impact to side effects and lifestyle questions like this one.
Final thoughts
While vaping may be less harmful than smoking, it is not risk-free when it comes to fertility. Nicotine can affect hormone levels, sperm health and ovulation, all of which are important when trying to conceive. If you are planning a pregnancy, it is a good idea to reduce your vaping gradually and stop altogether if possible.
If you are currently vaping and considering making changes, take it one step at a time. Speak to your GP or fertility specialist for advice based on your personal circumstances. And when you are ready, you can explore lower-strength options or nicotine-free products before stopping fully.
If you're trying to conceive, you might also want to see does vaping lower testosterone.
You can also check can you vape when pregnant for safety questions during and after conception.