Vaping may shrink testicles and drop sperm count; recent study warns

Because vaping doesn’t include smoking tobacco, it is thought to be a less dangerous alternative to cigarettes. Vaping involves inhaling aerosolized drugs through an electronic device. But is it reliable and risk-free? According to experts, vaping still puts consumers at risk for nicotine addiction and has a negative impact on their health. Inhaling the aerosol that comes from vaping can destroy lung tissue because it includes dangerous chemicals and tiny particles. Smokers should therefore look for evidence-based strategies for reducing and quitting smoking. According to a recent study, it can also have an effect on male reproductive health, including the testicles.

The Journal Revista Internacional de Andrología-

Three sets of rats were used in the study, which was written up in the journal Revista Internacional de Andrologia in Spanish. Winston brand cigarettes were used in one group, while a Joyetech eGo Aio 1500 mAh vape was used in the other. Both groups were exposed to smoke. A third control group did not receive any exposure to smoke or vapour.

Cotinine, a byproduct of nicotine metabolism, was measured in the urine of the rats, and the researchers discovered that vaping had a detrimental effect on the testicles of male rats as well as decreased sex drive and lower sperm count.

E-cigarette Vs. Cigarette

The results showed that sperm count decreased from 98.5 million sperm per millilitre in those not exposed to any nicotine substances to 95.1 million sperm per millilitre in those who used electronic cigarettes.

With 89 million sperm per millilitre, the group of rats exposed to cigarette smoke had the lowest sperm count of any of the three groups. Contrary to the rats exposed to e-cigarette vapour and the control group, these rats’ testicles were the smallest and lightest in weight.

Although the study’s results are concerning, experts contend that further research is necessary to fully comprehend how vaping affects people.

Addressing Testicular Shrinkage

The disorder known as testicular atrophy, or testicle shrinkage causes the testicles to shrink. The male sex hormone testosterone and sperm are both produced in a significant amount by the testicles. Any change to their shape or functionality may have far-reaching effects.

Nicotine, a vasoconstrictor, is a common ingredient in e-liquids. This implies that it causes blood arteries to constrict, possibly decreasing blood flow to the testicles. Testes may not operate as well when blood flow is reduced, which could result in shrinking.

Drop in the sperm count

Vaping may reduce sperm counts, which is another concerning element of the practise. The term “sperm count” describes how many sperm are included in a specific amount of semen. The likelihood of fertilisation might be greatly decreased by a low sperm count.

Chemicals’ Function in Vaping Liquids

Formaldehyde and acrolein, two substances that can be detected in vaping liquids, have been demonstrated to have negative impacts on the health of sperm. The delicate hormonal balance necessary for the development and operation of sperm may be disturbed by these substances.

Quality of Sperm Is Important

Sperm quality is just as important as its quantity. In addition, vaping can alter sperm’s morphology and motility, making it more difficult for them to reach and fertilise eggs.

Unfit for Fertility

The fertility of couples attempting to get pregnant may be seriously threatened by vaping. It may be difficult to get pregnant naturally if your sperm count is low and your testicles are shrinking.

Adverse effects on Men’s health

Testicle shrinkage and lower sperm counts may have effects on men’s health that go beyond issues with conception. Testosterone levels may fluctuate, which could cause symptoms including exhaustion, mood fluctuations, and decreased libido.

According to Dr. Harshit Shah, Surgical Oncologist, Associate Consultant, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, “There is a general tendency among people to think that vaping is a safer option compared to smoking, but it’s not safe,” including that vaping can harm the lungs and other body parts and result in breathing difficulties, asthma, lung scarring, addiction, and other health problems.

Additionally, according to Dr. Shah, vaping adverse effects might include coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, nausea, and dry mouth, throat, and eyes. Nicotine, a highly addictive chemical used in vaping, may have negative effects on young adults’ and teens’ growing brains.

It’s crucial to avoid both smoking and vaping because neither is healthier than the other.

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