Whether or not to eliminate or reduce alcohol consumption while trying to conceive is among the most common questions that couples pose to fertility doctors. It turns out that for men, the effect of alcohol on fertility is complex and dose-dependent.
There is scientific consensus that both consistent, heavy drinking (usually defined as more than 21 drinks per week) and binge drinking (5 or more drinks in 2-3 hours) can cause male fertility problems. In each case, alcohol has been demonstrated to cause changes in male reproductive hormones that can lead to testicular dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and sperm quality problems.
There is some good news, though (for men that like to drink alcohol). For one thing, the negative impact of heavy alcohol use on male fertility is completely reversible within 3-6 months. In addition, at least one study has demonstrated that moderate consumption of alcohol (1-2 drinks per day) does not appear to impair male fertility and may actually have a positive impact on sperm quality.
The verdict: avoid heavy alcohol use, but the scientific consensus is that mild alcohol use is OK in men while trying to conceive.
