For decades the risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy have been well understood, with consumption of heavy amounts during pregnancy being linked to fetal alcohol syndrome, miscarriage, premature delivery and also low birth weights. But, the question still remains: Does drinking alcohol before conception play a major role in preventing pregnancy all together? Even if you are not quite ready to start a family of your own, you may wish to examine your drinking habits and the effects they can have on your chances of conception.
Research has shown that alcohol exerts itself on fertility by raising both estrogen and testosterone levels while also lowering levels of gonadotrophin-hormones, meaning that both males and females fertility rate can be effected. To find out more about the harmful effects that even casual drinking can have on fertility, check out the full research article written by Amy Linton of Steps to Recovery.
