Do menthol cigarettes kill sperm?

Jun 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Menthol cigarettes contain various harmful substances such as nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Once these substances enter the body, they may affect the reproductive system through the bloodstream. For example, nicotine may interfere with hormone secretion, harmful components in tar may damage the sperm-producing cells in the testes, and carbon monoxide may reduce blood oxygen levels, thereby affecting the supply of nutrients and oxygen required for sperm development.

Generally speaking, there is currently no clear scientific conclusion on whether menthol cigarettes kill sperm, but their harmful ingredients may negatively affect sperm quality. The specific analysis is as follows:

Menthol cigarettes are essentially tobacco products containing various harmful substances such as nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. These substances can affect the reproductive system through the circulatory system. For example, nicotine may interfere with hormone secretion, harmful substances in tar may damage the spermatogenic cells of the testes, and carbon monoxide may reduce blood oxygen levels, thereby affecting the supply of nutrients and oxygen required for sperm development. Long-term smoking of such cigarettes may negatively impact the number, motility, and morphology of sperm, increasing fertility risks.

Additionally, although the menthol component in menthol cigarettes may provide a cooling sensation, it cannot counteract the inherent harm of tobacco. Some viewpoints suggest that menthol might have certain effects on the reproductive system, but related research conclusions remain inconsistent and controversial. However, from the perspective of reproductive health, regardless of whether they contain menthol or not, smoking itself poses threats to male reproductive function.

To protect reproductive health, men are advised to avoid all tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes. Those planning for parenthood should quit smoking well in advance to reduce the adverse effects of harmful substances on sperm.