There are many elements to pay attention in the IVF treatment process, but the most important of these is the relationship between the expectant parents and alcohol. Understanding the risks of drinking alcohol is essential for IVF to be successful and to optimize the treatment cycle.
What is IVF originally?
In Vitro Fertilization is a popular method of fertility treatment for couples who are unable to conceive a child in natural ways. In a typical IVF procedure, eggs are collected and fertilized outside the womb, and the resulting embryos are transferred back into the uterus in the hopes of having a healthy baby.
The age of the woman typically affects how many embryos are transferred. However, the amount of ovarian response can also have an impact on the fertility hormone or FSH, which is given as part of the IVF process.
The healthiest, most active sperm can then be chosen by washing and spinning spouse sperm. If there are any remaining healthy embryos, they can be preserved and used in future IVF cycles. (1)
Why is it important not to consume alcohol during the IVF process?
It is clear that alcohol consumption affects IVF. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is known to increase the risk of birth abnormalities, developmental delays, and learning difficulties in kids. To optimize the IVF Treatment in Turkey cycle and avoid high costs, it is necessary to know the risks of drinking alcohol.
Several studies have assessed the observed negative effects of alcohol use on IVF outcomes, including fertilization, embryo quality, and implantation. Even if the amount of wine, beer, and liquor consumed the year prior had little to no impact on the results, present or occasional alcohol use during IVF treatment seems to have a detrimental impact.
In this regard, it is crucial for women to abstain from alcohol use before IVF and throughout pregnancy. (2)
What are the main risks of drinking alcohol during IVF?
Women have relatively greater blood alcohol levels than men when they drink a specific amount of alcohol. This indicates that the same amount is metabolized considerably more slowly.
Women are more likely than males to experience long-term health issues as a result of heavy alcohol consumption. These health issues include both physical and psychological conditions like cancer, liver disease, and memory loss. Additionally, heavy drinking might affect the menstrual cycle and raise the chance of infertility.
One study found that men who used alcohol had significantly lower sperm counts, sperm motility, and normal-shaped sperm. Similar to women, men are advised to avoid their alcohol intake if they wish to improve their chances of getting pregnant. (3)
What do studies say about alcohol consumption in IVF treatment?
According to studies on alcohol use during IVF, drinking by women before the cycle can reduce the chances of success. Women who are pregnant or plan to get pregnant should avoid consuming alcohol, according to several physicians globally.
Alcohol intake by men or women at the beginning of an IVF cycle, even in little amounts, has been shown to negatively affect cycle outcomes, specifically failures in fertilization and live birth.
According to one study, women who drank within a month of starting IVF were more likely to be unsuccessful at getting pregnant. Additionally, individuals who drank one alcoholic beverage per day had fewer egg cells, while those who drank one week prior to IVF had a greater risk of miscarriage. (4)
Is it safe to consume alcohol before starting IVF?
Initially, it’s vital to acknowledge that alcohol’s impact on fertility is a subject of ongoing research. Nonetheless, evidence indicates that even moderate alcohol intake may influence reproductive health. Specifically, for those preparing for IVF, the implications are significant. Experts often advise that both partners abstain from alcohol in the period leading up to, and during, an IVF cycle. This recommendation stems from concerns about alcohol’s effects on several key aspects of reproductive health, including:
- Sperm health
- Egg quality
- Embryo development
- The process of embryo implantation
Furthermore, alcohol can potentially disrupt hormonal balances necessary for successful IVF outcomes. Consequently, many fertility specialists suggest erring on the side of caution by recommending abstinence. However, there is a nuanced view acknowledging that minimal alcohol consumption might not severely hinder the IVF process for every individual. Therefore, a personalized consultation with a fertility expert becomes indispensable. They can provide guidance tailored to an individual’s health background and specific circumstances. Ultimately, prioritizing overall well-being and fertility goals is paramount in making informed decisions about alcohol intake before starting IVF.
Source:
Rossi, B. V., Berry, K. F., Hornstein, M. D., Cramer, D. W., Ehrlich, S., & Missmer, S. A. (2011). Effect of alcohol consumption on in vitro fertilization. Obstetrics and gynecology, 117(1), 136.