Semin Reprod Med 2008; 26(2): 204-212
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1042959
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Maternal Tobacco Use and Its Preimplantation Effects on Fertility: More Reasons to Stop Smoking

Amber R. Cooper1 , 3 , Kelle H. Moley2 , 3
  • 1Fellow, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
  • 2Professor, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
  • 3Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
27 February 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

There are numerous health concerns regarding tobacco smoke. Yet, only recently have researchers extensively explored the association between tobacco smoke and a woman's inability to conceive. Whether exposure occurs in utero, during pregnancy, or throughout the reproductive years, it can affect all facets of fertility and lead to diminished ovarian function and earlier menopause. This review analyzes the literature concerning the delay or absence of conception in some women exposed to cigarette smoke and provides a detailed examination of the potential reproductive targets of the mutagenic and toxic components of tobacco. A negative influence on ovarian steroidogenesis and gametogenesis, oocyte maturity, ovulation, oocyte cumulus complex pick-up, gamete and embryo transport by the oviduct, fertilization, and implantation could all play a role. Assisted reproductive technology, or more specifically, in vitro fertilization, has allowed us to more thoroughly analyze successful pregnancy cycles and the negative consequences of smoking. Objective measurements of tobacco compounds and their metabolites in follicular fluid correlate with subjective measures of ovarian, gamete, and embryo quality in smokers and in those exposed to passive smoke. Regardless, there is an abundance of literature accumulating and more than enough reasons to tell patients to stop smoking.

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Amber R CooperM.D. 

Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Washington University

4444 Forest Park Avenue, Suite 3100, St. Louis, MO, 63108

Email: coopera@wudosis.wustl.edu

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