If you’re trying to conceive or are thinking about starting a family soon, you may have heard that alcohol and fertility don’t mix. Studies1 have suggested that heavy drinking while trying to get pregnant can have negative consequences on both female and male fertility. But how much is too much? Can alcohol prevent pregnancy even if you only drink occasionally? In this article, we’ll look at the science of alcohol and fertility to help you understand the effects of drinking when trying to conceive. We’ll also offer some practical tips for how to avoid alcohol to improve your fertility and reduce the risk of potential complications.
Can You Drink While Trying to Get Pregnant?
You can drink in moderation while trying to get pregnant.2 For most people, this means3 having two drinks or fewer in a day if you’re a man and one drink or less in a day if you’re a woman. However, there are several reasons why you might want to abstain from drinking alcohol altogether during this phase.
For starters, drinking too much can lead to many different health problems, whether you’re trying to get pregnant or not. Alcohol consumption can interfere with the communication pathways in your brain,4 leading to disruptions in mood, behavior, and cognitive function. Trying to conceive can be a stressful time for some people, and drinking alcohol has been shown to worsen anxiety.5 So, if you’re struggling with emotional stress while trying to get pregnant, it may be a good idea to take a break from alcohol.
Additionally, heavy drinking can make your liver become fatty and thick,6 leading to an accumulation of fibrous tissue that restricts blood flow. This can cause your liver cells to become malnourished, resulting in organ malfunction. Furthermore, excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt the electrical signals that regulate your heart’s rhythm, potentially causing permanent damage,7 which can reduce your heart’s ability to circulate blood effectively and negatively impact every aspect of your overall health.
Another issue with alcohol and fertility is that if you drink and do become pregnant, you may risk unintentionally exposing your baby to alcohol. And since there is no known safe amount of alcohol for a developing fetus,8 the safest approach is simply to avoid it. This includes all types of alcohol, including wine, wine coolers, cocktails, beer, and liquor.
How Does Alcohol Affect Fertility?
Alcohol can impact fertility in both men and women, with its effects influenced by factors such as the amount and frequency of consumption. For example, heavy drinking can lead to loss of libido in women9 and men,10 which can make it more difficult to conceive. Drinking alcohol regularly can also make you gain weight,11 making it harder to get pregnant.
How Does Alcohol Affect Female Fertility?
Excessive alcohol intake can impact both your reproductive system and hormonal balance. Here are some of the ways drinking too much alcohol may get in the way of your plans of getting pregnant:
Menstrual cycle disruption: Heavy alcohol consumption can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Drinking alcohol, particularly binge drinking, can lead to an increase in estrogen and a decrease in progesterone.12 It can also change levels13 of estradiol, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone. These processes can disrupt normal hormonal behaviors necessary for regular ovulation.
Increased risk of early pregnancy loss: While evidence is not conclusive regarding how alcohol affects implantation, some research14 suggests that drinking alcohol during the implantation phase can prevent proper implantation and may increase the chances of early pregnancy loss. The implantation phase is a critical stage in early pregnancy that occurs 6-12 days after fertilization when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus.
Worsening PCOS: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting an estimated 8-13% of women of reproductive age.15 It’s characterized by imbalances in reproductive hormones, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and elevated levels of male hormones (androgens). While women living with PCOS can and do get pregnant with and without reproductive assistance, those with PCOS have a lower natural conception rate. This is because PCOS can lead to irregular ovulation or anovulation (lack of ovulation), which can contribute to fertility challenges. If you’re living with PCOS, it’s essential to be aware that excessive alcohol consumption can exacerbate the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS. Plus, since PCOS and heavy drinking independently disrupt ovulation and cycle regularity, when combined, their effects may compound, making it more challenging to conceive.
Reduced egg quality: Heavy alcohol consumption can significantly affect egg quality, making them less likely to fertilize successfully. This can be particularly problematic for women who are undergoing fertility treatment, as studies have shown13 that alcohol consumption can negatively impact the success rate of egg retrieval and fertilization. According to a research study16 conducted on women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), alcohol intake during the treatment led to the production of poorer-quality embryos, which could potentially affect the overall success of the procedure.
How Does Alcohol Affect Male Fertility?
Although fertility and conception are often thought of as a woman’s issue, up to 50% of infertility issues17 can be attributed to male factors. This means that it’s just as critical for men to consider their lifestyle habits, including alcohol consumption when it comes to planning a pregnancy.
While it may not be necessary to quit drinking altogether, reducing weekly alcohol intake can improve sperm quality. It’s essential to keep in mind that the sperm life cycle, or spermatogenesis, takes around 74 days,18so men should expect to see an improvement in any alcohol-related fertility concerns after about three months of no drinking or drinking less. Here’s how alcohol consumption can impact male fertility:
Reduced sperm quality: A study published in BMJ Open19 looking at men ages 18-28 found that regular drinking was associated with lower sperm quality. The study found that the more weekly units of alcohol the participants consumed, the lower the sperm quality, particularly in men who drank 25 or more alcohol units each week — roughly the equivalent of 15 pints of beer.
Hormonal imbalances: Alcohol can reduce testosterone levels.20 Testosterone is a sex hormone that affects how the male body functions. Having lower levels of testosterone can reduce the quantity and quality of sperm, lower libido, and increase the risk for erectile dysfunction.
Erectile Dysfunction: Frequent alcohol consumption can lead to erectile dysfunction21 in men, which is characterized by difficulty in getting or maintaining an erection. This is because alcohol can depress the central nervous system and suppress coordination and motor abilities, which can interfere with the communication between the brain and the penis.
| Consumption Level | Definition | Female Fertility Effects | Male Fertility Effects | Recovery Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| None/Minimal | 0–1 drink per week or abstinence. | No adverse effects on ovulation, egg quality, or hormone balance; optimal for fertility. | No adverse effects on sperm quality or production; optimal for fertility. | Not applicable; no recovery needed. |
| Light | 1–3 drinks per week; moderate social drinking. | Research suggests minimal impact at light levels; ovulation and menstrual cycle typically remain regular. | Minimal impact on sperm quality; testosterone and hormone levels generally stable. | Immediate return to normal if drinking is stopped; no persistent effects. |
| Moderate | 4–7 drinks per week; daily or regular drinking. | Research indicates impaired ovulation, disrupted menstrual cycles, and decreased egg quality; may reduce fertility by 30% or more. | Reduced sperm count, motility, and morphology; decreased testosterone; impaired semen quality. | Sperm production recovers gradually; 2–3 months of abstinence may show improvement in semen parameters. |
| Heavy | 8+ drinks per week; chronic alcohol use. | Significant disruption to ovulation, menstrual regularity, and egg quality; may contribute to anovulation; fertility substantially reduced. | Severe impairment of sperm production, viability, and motility; testosterone often significantly suppressed. | Recovery takes 3–6+ months after cessation; full sperm cycle recovery may require 2–3 months minimum. |
What Are the Best Tips for Cutting Down on Alcohol While TTC?
The encouraging news is that the majority of risks linked to alcohol consumption and fertility are reversible simply by abstaining while attempting to conceive. Occasional drinks for special events are generally not problematic in the period leading up to pregnancy. However, it’s essential to remember that better health outcomes for babies begin before conception.22If you’re trying to avoid alcohol or cut down consumption while trying for a baby, here are some tips that might help:
Enlist Support
Reducing your alcohol intake can be challenging, especially when you’re around friends or family who enjoy a drink or two. To help you stay on track, consider enlisting a sober buddy — maybe your partner or a friend who is also looking to cut down on their alcohol intake. Having someone who shares your goals can help make this journey a lot easier!
Avoid Temptations
Identify the feelings, people, or places that make you want to drink and do your best to avoid them. For example, if you’re used to unwinding with alcohol, replace that habit with something else, like a warm bath, reading, or watching a TV show rather than pouring yourself a drink.
Find Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
These days, there are plenty of alternatives for non-alcoholic beverages. Consider trying their alcohol-free counterparts if you’re used to ordering beer, wine, or cocktails. You can find a variety of mocktails and non-alcoholic drinks at most bars and restaurants. Plus, there are tons of recipes available online and on social media that you can explore and experiment with at home.
Educate Yourself
While navigating the journey of conception, it's essential to balance information intake without feeling overwhelmed. Educating yourself about the risks of drinking during pregnancy and its potential harm to your baby can reinforce your commitment to abstain from alcohol. However, always ensure the information comes from reliable sources. If it becomes too much, don't hesitate to take a break from your digital devices and prioritize your well-being.
Track Your Progress
Keep yourself motivated as you reduce your alcohol intake by focusing on the positive outcomes. Take note of the financial savings from not purchasing alcohol at stores or bars. Additionally, observe the health benefits and increased energy levels you may experience from reducing your alcohol intake, which can further encourage your commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
Seek Professional Help If Needed
If you find it particularly challenging to reduce or stop your alcohol consumption, it might be beneficial to seek professional help. There's no shame in needing assistance – it's a sign of strength to recognize when you need support beyond your immediate network. Health professionals, such as doctors, therapists, or specialized counselors, can provide valuable guidance and strategies tailored to your individual needs. They can also help address any underlying issues related to alcohol use and offer coping mechanisms that are healthy and effective.
Remember, taking steps towards a healthier lifestyle not only benefits you but also creates the best possible environment for a future pregnancy. Seeking help is an important part of self-care and a positive step towards your goal of starting or growing your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I stop drinking before trying to conceive?
There is no universally agreed timeline, but many fertility specialists recommend that women stop drinking at least one month before actively trying to conceive to minimise hormonal disruption and eliminate the risk of early fetal alcohol exposure. Men should aim to reduce or stop alcohol consumption at least three months before trying to conceive, as the sperm production cycle (spermatogenesis) takes approximately 72–90 days. Consult a healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
How does alcohol affect implantation?
Research on alcohol and implantation remains limited, but some evidence suggests that excessive alcohol intake during the implantation window (6–12 days after fertilisation) may interfere with the process by disrupting hormonal regulation and uterine receptivity. Since implantation occurs before most women know they are pregnant, abstaining from alcohol while actively trying to conceive is the safest approach to protect this critical early stage.
Does alcohol affect egg quality?
Yes, excessive drinking can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation, which can affect egg quality. The toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism, including acetaldehyde, may directly damage cells involved in egg maturation and development. Studies on women undergoing IVF have shown that alcohol consumption during treatment was associated with poorer embryo quality and reduced success rates.
Does alcohol affect ovulation?
Heavy alcohol consumption can disrupt menstrual cycle regularity and ovulation patterns, which are critical for conception. Alcohol increases oestrogen levels while decreasing progesterone, and can alter levels of oestradiol, testosterone, and luteinising hormone — all of which are necessary for regular ovulation. These disruptions can make predicting fertile windows more difficult and extend time to conception.
Can a man drink alcohol when trying to conceive?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered compatible with male fertility, but heavy drinking (more than 25 units per week) is associated with significantly reduced sperm quality, lower testosterone levels, and increased risk of erectile dysfunction. Men trying to conceive are advised to limit intake to moderate levels or abstain entirely, with improvements in sperm parameters typically visible after approximately three months of reduced consumption.
Is it safe to drink alcohol during the two-week wait?
The two-week wait (the period between ovulation and when you can take a pregnancy test) is a particularly sensitive time. If fertilisation has occurred, the embryo may be implanting during this window. Since there is no known safe level of alcohol during pregnancy, many specialists recommend treating the two-week wait as if you could be pregnant and avoiding alcohol to eliminate any potential risk to early embryonic development.
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Citations
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3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 19). Facts about moderate drinking. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. #
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14 O’Neil, B. E., 2011-04-24, P., O’Neil, Arizona State University. School of Life Sciences. Center for Biology and Society. Embryo Project Encyclopedia., & Monday. (2011, Apr. 24). Developmental timeline of alcohol-induced birth defects. Developmental Timeline of Alcohol-Induced Birth Defects | Embryo Project Encyclopedia. https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/developmental-timeline-alcohol-induced-birth-defects
15 World Health Organization. (2023, June 28). Polycystic ovary syndrome. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/polycystic-ovary-syndrome
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19 Jensen, T. K., Gottschau, M., Madsen, J. O. B., Andersson, A.-M., Lassen, T. H., Skakkebæk, N. E., Swan, S. H., Priskorn, L., Juul, A., & Jørgensen, N. (2014, Sept..1). Habitual alcohol consumption associated with reduced semen quality and changes in reproductive hormones; a cross-sectional study among 1221 young Danish men. BMJ Open. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/4/9/e005462
20 Smith, S. J. (2023, Oct.14). The effects of alcohol on testosterone synthesis in men: a review. Taylor & Francis Online.
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22 Moss, J. L., & Harris, K. M. (2015, Feb.). Impact of maternal and paternal preconception health on birth outcomes using prospective couples’ data in Add Health. Archives of gynecology and obstetrics. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4293222/
23 Koop, D. R. (2006). Alcohol metabolism’s damaging effects on the cell: A focus on reactive oxygen generation by the enzyme cytochrome P450 2E1. Alcohol research & health?: the journal of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6527031/
24 Florou, P., Anagnostis, P., Theocharis, P., Chourdakis, M., & Goulis, D. G. (2020, Aug. 7). Does coenzyme Q10 supplementation improve fertility outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology procedures? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials - Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10815-020-01906-3
25 So S;Yamaguchi W;Murabayashi N;Miyano N;Tawara F;Kanayama N; (2020, Oct.). Beneficial effect of L-arginine in women using assisted reproductive technologies: A small-scale randomized controlled trial. Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32977253/
Marina Carter
Fertility Health Writer at FertilitySmart
Marina Carter is a specialist health writer with nearly a decade of experience in reproductive health, fertility nutrition, and evidence-based conception support. She has authored over 30 in-depth articles for FertilitySmart, translating peer-reviewed research into clear, practical guidance for individuals and couples on their fertility journey. Read full bio →