Here’s another reason why you should stop smoking

Additionally, a 2015 study published in the journal titled Menopause, states, “Cigarette smoke exposure in adulthood is an established risk factor for earlier age at natural menopause and may be related to age at menopausal transition.”

Dr Vinutha G, senior consultant gynecologist and obstetrics at Athreya Super Speciality Hospital, says, “Cigarette smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals that can influence the onset of premature menopause.”

Two key components are cadmium and benzo[a]pyrene, she adds. “Cadmium, a heavy metal, is known to disrupt the production of steroid hormones essential for ovarian function. It interferes with follicular growth and can lead to ovulation failure.”

Benzo[a]pyrene, found in higher concentrations in smokers, affects hormone levels crucial for follicular development, leading to earlier depletion of the ovarian reserve (Journal of Ovarian Research; PLOS Medicine), informs Dr Vinutha.

On average, smokers may enter menopause one to two years earlier. (Source: Freepik)

Mechanisms of accelerated ovarian aging

According to Dr Vinutha, smoking accelerates ovarian aging through several mechanisms:

– Hormonal Disruption: Chemicals in cigarette smoke interfere with the endocrine system, causing hormonal imbalances. This disruption can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and an earlier onset of menopause.

– Oxidative Stress: Smoking increases oxidative stress, damaging the DNA in ovarian cells and accelerating the loss of oocytes.

– Direct Toxic Effects: Components like cadmium and benzo[a]pyrene directly affect the ovaries, reducing the number of viable eggs and disrupting follicular function (Pelvic Floor Pro; Journal of Ovarian Research).

Risk comparison between smokers and non-smokers

Studies show that women who smoke are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing premature menopause compared to non-smokers. On average, smokers may enter menopause one to two years earlier. 

“The risk increases with the amount and duration of smoking. For each additional cigarette smoked per day, the age at natural menopause can be reduced by about 2.5 weeks. This effect is dose-dependent, meaning the more one smokes and the longer the duration, the higher the risk (PLOS Medicine; Women’s Health),” Dr Vinutha warns. 

Benefits of smoking cessation

Dr Vinutha highlights that quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of premature menopause. “The earlier one quits, the better the outcome. Women who stop smoking before the age of 30 have a similar risk of early menopause as non-smokers.” 

Even quitting by the age of 40 can delay the onset of menopause compared to those who continue smoking. The benefits of smoking cessation extend beyond delaying menopause; they include improved overall health, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, and better bone health, she states.