When Love Goes Up in Smoke

It's true, scientists say...your love life really can go up in smoke. Research indicates that smokers have sex less often and are less likely to enjoy making love than nonsmokers, and the longer they've been smoking, the worse it can get.

According to a report to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, men who have smoked from seven to 15 years had nearly 50 percent less sex than nonsmokers. They -- and their partners -- also were left less satisfied by their lovemaking.

The research by scientists in the United States and Greece was part of a study on the effects of smoking on infertility. They examined 290 couples undergoing infertility treatment, including 158 men who were considered heavy smokers.

The scientists said the smokers received a top score of six out of a possible 10 for satisfaction in their sex life, while some nonsmokers scored nine out of 10. Also, they said, nonsmokers made love 14 times a month on average, compared with only seven times a month for smokers.

So, if you need yet another reason to kick the habit, think of your potential love-making quotient bumping up three points!