Can Alcohol Affect Fertility?

Alcohol consumption in both men and women can lead to infertility. Same is the case with IVF success rates. Studies have shown that in couples who share more than one bottle of wine per week reduced their chance of a baby by 26 percent through IVF (In-vitro fertilization). Not just women but men should also control their drinking habit before and while IVF procedure.

Effect of Alcohol on IVF

It is evident that prolonged alcohol consumption in men can lead to poor sperm health and lower testosterone levels. Recent studies have shown that the type of alcohol also matters. Men who had beer daily showed a greater chance of embryo implantation failure in their female partner through IVF.

In men who consumed white wine weekly, the odds of poor sperm morphology increased by 43% whereas in men who consumed red wine weekly, the odds of poor sperm concentration increased by 23%. With these stats, it is quite noticeable how alcohol impact IVF success rate.

The fertility experts suggest avoiding any drinks at least one month prior to an IVF cycle. Alcohol has a negative influence on the development and functioning of sperm cells as well. Since sperm maturation takes up to three months, for healthy sperm production it is also advisable to reduce or stop alcohol consumption three months before attempting pregnancy.

The success rate of IVF procedure depends upon various factors. Some of which are impossible to control. But keeping a check on one’s alcohol consumption is surely possible. So, for both the male and female partners who are trying to conceive, be it by the means of IVF or any other ways, it is really crucial to avoid alcohol consumption even prior to conceiving.