There are many reasons for couples to not be able to get pregnant naturally and this is no cause for shame or embarrassment. Modern technology has enabled there to be various other means for one to have a child. But for these treatments to work, one needs to take into account the health conditions of both, the man and the woman. There are several lifestyle factors that can affect the fertility of the couple. While the environmental factors are mostly out of one’s control, the lifestyle ones can be managed easily. These include things like dietary habits, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, and exercises. In fact, quitting smoking if you are considering getting pregnant is recommended for both men and women. It is believed that women who do not smoke double their chances of getting pregnant.

There are effective methods for smoking cessation that can be easily followed by both men and women if they are planning a family. Also note that second-hand smoking is equally damaging as active smoking, since women who are exposed to second-hand smoke take longer to conceive. Cigarettes contain chemicals that are harmful to the body as they damage the sperms and eggs, which affect the child’s health in the future too.

Given below are some of the effective methods for smoking cessation if one is planning for pregnancy

• Set the date
  If you’re planning on getting pregnant, now is the time to set a date by which to quit smoking. You can start by reducing your daily cigarette intake slowly. As you inch closer to your quitting date, cut down smoking completely. If your partner smokes and that stops you from quitting smoking entirely, it is a good idea to talk to them and try to quit together or ask him to avoid smoking in front of you.
• Create a quit-smoking plan
  You can start small by identifying the times of the day hardest for you to control smoking. Plan on how you can handle cravings. Engage in an interesting activity during that time to distract yourself from cigarettes. You can change your routine as a way to cope with the stress caused due to not smoking. Either go for a walk or play a sport. You can also opt for a nicotine replacement after consulting with your doctor.
• Get support
  In case it gets too difficult to manage the cravings, think about the hassle-free pregnancy that you would like to enjoy. Positive thoughts about the importance of a smooth pregnancy, your future health, and the health of the baby can help you remain strong in the face of temptation. Get support from family or loved ones for tips to quit smoking. You may consider joining a like-minded support group. Counseling is another option that can gradually help you quit smoking.

For smokers, quitting is usually difficult. But your doctor can help you come up with a plan of action for effective methods for smoking cessation. This can even include prescribing a medicine designed to support your decision to quit smoking. Experts will recommend medications that will not interfere with your fertility plans, making it safe advice to follow.