Smoking and sperm count

Dr. Amy,

Is it true that smoking and drinking alot can lower a man's sperm count? My husband and I have been trying to have a baby for the past year and we have yet to be successful. My husband smokes and drinks pretty much on a regular basis and he's been doing this for about 10 years. Is it possible that the reason we have not conceived is because all that smoking and drinking has lowered his sperm count or caused it to be not as strong as its supposed to be. I would really appreciate a response as this is very important to me.

Thank You!
Tiffany

Dear Tiffany,

While it is true that smoking can lower a man's sperm count, that is not a common cause of difficulty in getting pregnant. There are many other factors that could be responsible. If you are not pregnant by the end of a year of trying, you should see a gynecologist or infertility doctor for a complete evaluation of you and your husband. In the meantime, avoid blaming anyone or any specific thing for the difficulty. A complete evaluation will reveal the problem (if there is one) and it could be something that you have not even considered.

Sincerely,
Amy