Drinking and IVF Don't Mix

A study presented recently at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) suggested that alcohol consumption decreases IVF success rates. The researchers questioned 2,574 couples undergoing IVF treatment. Couples who consumed over six alcohol units (two pints of beer or two large glasses of wine) per week were significantly less likely to become pregnant. Women were 18% less likely to have a successful IVF cycle, while men reduced their chances of success by 14%. The negative effects were particularly strong for women who consumed white wine and men who consumed beer. Based on these findings experts advise couples to avoid alcohol three months prior to an IVF cycle.

The lead researcher of the study, Dr. Brooke Rossi, stated "there are many factors why IVF fails and most of these patients have no control over. But how much they drink is something that they can change." The results of this study also suggest that alcohol consumption may decrease pregnancy rates in all couples attempting pregnancy, even those without specific fertility issues.