Urologist Warns Vaping Reduces Sperm Quality and Threatens Fertility Prospects

Vaping habits can reduce sperm quality and impede fertility prospects, even for men who have undergone surgical procedures to address infertility issues. The warning was issued by Dr. I Nyoman Palgunadi, a urologist specialising in urology at Windu Husada Hospital, through his Threads account on 26 February 2026.

Dr. Palgunadi recounted his experience treating a male patient who had undergone varicocele surgery but whose subsequent semen analysis showed no expected improvement. Upon investigation, the patient was found to still be using vaping devices.

When the doctor discussed this with his patient, the man responded: “Vaping isn’t as harmful as cigarettes, doctor,” suggesting a common misconception.

However, Dr. Palgunadi firmly corrected this misunderstanding. He explained that the vapour from vaping devices still contains nicotine and oxidative substances that can disrupt sperm formation. Nicotine and oxidative substances damage body cells, including those responsible for sperm production. Consequently, sperm count can decrease, motility slows, and overall quality declines.

Dr. Palgunadi emphasised that surgical results may not achieve their full potential if destructive lifestyle habits persist. He likened the situation to “repairing an air conditioning unit whilst continuing to operate a cooker in the same room”—meaning medical interventions must be accompanied by lifestyle changes to achieve optimal outcomes.

The specialist stressed that whilst surgery is important, lifestyle modifications are equally crucial for maximising fertility treatment results.