The Effects of Smoking and Vaping on Erectile Dysfunction

In recent years, there has been a rise in popularity in vaping. Despite vapes being created as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, younger people in particular are picking up the habit. While the health affects have already found a lot of attention surrounding how vaping can affect respiratory and heart health, there are other aspects of health which can be negatively effected by the use of e-cigarettes and vapes. One particular impact of vaping which has been recently looked into is on sexual health; specifically erectile dysfunction.

So, what is the exact relationship between vaping and erectile dysfunction and are there anyways to help kick the habit?

The Risk from Vaping

The link between vaping and erectile dysfunction is an area o

f ongoing research. Yet, early research has found that yes, there is a risk of erectile dysfunction for those who vape; particularly nicotine-containing vapes and e-cigarettes.

Nicotine is a main ingredient in many vaping products, used in order to reduce the withdrawal effects from smoking cigarettes. Since vaping delivers these nicotine levels without burning tobacco, it is often a safer option than smoking; reducing the exposure to some of the harmful chemicals that are produced through the burning.

Yet, while vaping is often a safer alternative to smoking, it is not harm-free. Designed as a ‘reduced-harm tool’ to existing adult smokers, often it is found that many younger people, or non-smokers will pick up the habit thinking that it is harm free.

Does Nicotine Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

While vaping does typically deliver fewer harmful chemicals to the b

ody than cigarettes do, this does not mean that they are completely void of harmful chemicals. Vapes often still contain levels of nicotine, designed to reduce the withdrawal effects of cigarette smoking, but that also work to keep the user addicted.

Nicotine can also be one of the main contributors to erectile dysfunction in users. Here’s how:

1. Vascular damage: Nicotine damages blood vessels and blocks health blood flow around the body. This includes blood flow to the penis, making is difficult to achieve and maintain an erection.
2. Reduced nitric oxide production: Nicotine reduces nitric oxide production, a chemical which relaxes and widens blood vessels. When nitric oxide levels are low, the blood vessels leading to, and in the penis don’t widen fully to allow adequate blood flow.
3. Atherosclerosis: Nicotine accelerates the development of atherosclerosis. This is where plaque can build up in the arteries narrowing and hardening arteries restricting blood flow.
4. Hormonal imbalance: Nicotine can disrupt hormone levels in the body, including testosterone, which is essential for libido and erectile function. Reduced testosterone levels associated with smoking can contribute to erectile dysfunction.
5. Psychological factors: In addition to its physical effects, nicotine can also have psychological effects that contribute to erectile dysfunction. Stress, anxiety, depression, and feelings of guilt or embarrassment related to smoking can all impact sexual performance and contribute to erectile difficulties.
6. Penile tissue damage: The toxins in tobacco smoke can directly damage the delicate tissues of the penis, affecting its structure and function. Over time, this damage may contribute to erectile problems.

Is Vaping Better than Smoking for Erectile Dysfunction?

When comparing the risks of vaping vs smoking, its important to consider how they can both impact a person’s health. Smoking’s effects are common knowledge; a leading cause of cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, often said to be causes by the combustion of tobacco. Vaping, on the other hand, is a less harmful alternative according to Public Health England (PHE) and the Royal College of Physicians who found that vaping is estimated to be up to 95% less harmful than smoking.

However, vaping does come with its own set of related illnesses, particularly concerning heart and respiratory health. When vaping, users till inhale levels of nicotine and other chemicals which can cause inflammation and potentially lead to lung disease.

It is implied that the very effects which smoking can have on erectile health are found for vaping, meaning that both traditional tobacco smoking, and vaping can both cause unwanted effects on sexual health.

Other Lifestyle Changes to Help Erectile Dysfunction 

Smoking and vaping are not the only contributor to erectile dysfunction. The causes of erectile dysfunction include both physical and psychological causes, some of which can be aided by slight changes in behaviour and routine which can help you take better control of your health.

Other Effects of Quitting Smoking or Vaping

There are may health benefits of quitting smoking and vaping, beginning almost as soon as you skip that first dose. Just 20 minutes after your last cigarette, your heart rate begins to return to normal, your sense of taste and smell begin to improve, and gradually your risk for all those serious health conditions continue to drop.

Image Credit: Quit smoking – Better Health – NHS

Treatment Options

Quitting smoking can be difficult on your own. At The Family Chemist, we offer a range of treatment options in order to help you kick the habit.

Or, if you are still struggling with erectile dysfunction, then consider one of our erectile treatment options.

Both available following an online consultation to be approved by one of our qualified clinicians.

The Bottom Line

While vaping may be less harmful than traditional smoking, it is not without risk, especially when it comes to sexual health. Research suggests that nicotine-containing vapes can contribute to erectile dysfunction through their effects on blood vessels, hormones, and overall heart health. Whether the nicotine comes from cigarettes or e-cigarettes, the impact on erectile function can be similar.

Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the most effective steps you can take to improve not only your sexual health but your overall wellbeing. Positive changes begin within minutes of stopping, and over time your risk of long-term health complications continues to fall. For those struggling to quit, or those already experiencing erectile dysfunction, support and treatment options are available. With the right guidance and lifestyle changes, you can significantly improve your health and regain control of your wellbeing.