How Smoking Can Cause Early Menopause

We’ve been hearing over and over again – “smoking kills!”

Smoking can cause early menopause. If you need another reason not to smoke, know that smoking can cause the early onset of perimenopausal symptoms.

We already knew that it’s bad for the lungs and causes cancer, but did you know it can affect perimenopause? Smokers are more likely to experience worse perimenopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and sleep difficulties. 

There’s a link between smoking and early natural menopause. Research has shown that ovarian aging may be sped up due to cigarette smoking and affect hormone levels. This combination of effects causes worsened symptoms, due to hormonal imbalance, and early menopause, due to expedited ovarian aging. 

Here are just a few more reasons not to smoke

1. Damages Ovaries: Smoking has been shown to cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the ovaries, leading to a decrease in the number of eggs available for ovulation and an increased risk of early menopause. (Source: Journal of Ovarian Research)
2. Alters Hormonal Balance: Nicotine, the main addictive substance in cigarettes, is known to affect the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation. This alteration can lead to early menopause. (Source: Maturitas)
3. Reduces Blood Flow: Smoking is known to reduce blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. This decreased blood flow can also lead to early menopause. (Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology)
4. Increases DNA Damage: Toxins in cigarette smoke can cause DNA damage in the cells of the ovaries, leading to a reduction in their ability to produce eggs and increasing the risk of early menopause. (Source: Menopause)
5. Suppresses Immune System: Smoking is known to weaken the immune system and make the body more vulnerable to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to a decrease in the number of eggs available for ovulation and increase the risk of early menopause. (Source: Environmental Health Perspectives)

It’sFetch is a community that provides a safe space for members to discuss health and wellness topics. We provide access to archived health related content, note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content shared, regardless of date should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

-Written by Paavana Varanasi