Smoking and fertility
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effect of smoking on ovarian reserve parameters, sperm parameters and embryo quality in sub-fertile couples.
IRAS ID
262373
Contact name
Priya Bhide
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Homerton University Hospital
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Effect of smoking on ovarian reserve parameters, sperm parameters and embryo quality in sub-fertile couples:
This study is trying to find out the effect of cigarette smoking on a woman’s egg reserve and a man’s sperm count in participants having investigations and treatment for fertility and the quality of the resulting embryos in those participants who have decided to have IVF/ICSI treatment. Current evidence for the relationship between smoking and these fertility parameters is inconclusive. This single-centre prospective observational study is planned for 18 months. Couples referred to the Homerton Fertility Centre for investigations and treatment will be eligible for the study. All participants will be recruited after informed consent.
All participants consented to the study will have:
1) A short self-reported questionnaire detailing the smoking history. It will account for passive smokers. It will also aim to quantify the tobacco consumption in terms of “pack years”.
2) A non-invasive breath test to estimate the levels of carbon monoxide in the exhaled breath.
3) A urine test for urine cotinine (a by-product of nicotine)
The study will compare the markers of egg reserve/sperm concentration in current smokers, ex-smokers and never-smokers. It will also correlate the lifetime smoking exposure quantified as “pack years”, breath levels of carbon monoxide and urine cotinine with markers of egg reserve, sperm parameters and embryo quality. The study will also compare markers of egg reserve and sperm parameters in smokers, before and 6-9 months after smoking cessation.
Taking part in this study/disclosing smoking history will not impact the standard care pathway for fertility investigations, treatment or funding for treatment.
Although there is no direct benefit to the participants in this study, results will be important for future couples trying for a pregnancy, having investigations and treatment for fertility, clinicians and policy makers.REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
19/WA/0089
Date of REC Opinion
12 Mar 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion