“Dry February” is a time when people voluntarily reduce or completely avoid alcohol, not only as a personal challenge but also as a way to improve overall health. This simple decision can have a direct impact on reproductive health and fertility. Below are evidence-based facts explaining how alcohol affects the body and why reducing it may be beneficial for those planning a pregnancy.
Alcohol and female fertility
1) Hormonal balance
Alcohol can interfere with key hormones responsible for ovulation and the menstrual cycle. Studies show that even moderate alcohol consumption may disrupt hormonal regulation, making regular ovulation more difficult.
2) Egg quality
Chronic or higher alcohol intake has been linked to reduced oocyte (egg) quality. Poor egg quality can lower the chances of fertilization and increase the risk of early pregnancy loss.
3) IVF and assisted reproduction
In women undergoing assisted reproductive treatments such as IVF, alcohol consumption may reduce cycle success rates and negatively affect the response to hormonal stimulation.
Alcohol and male fertility
1) Sperm quality
Alcohol consumption may reduce:
- sperm count
- sperm motility
- sperm morphology (shape)
This can significantly decrease the likelihood of successful fertilization.
2) Hormonal changes
Alcohol affects testosterone production and other hormones essential for spermatogenesis (sperm production).
3) Oxidative stress
Alcohol increases oxidative stress in the body, which can damage sperm DNA and further reduce semen quality.
Alcohol and pregnancy
Even short-term alcohol consumption during the period of trying to conceive or early pregnancy is not recommended. Ethanol crosses the placenta and may negatively affect embryonic and fetal development. Medical organizations therefore agree that no amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy.
Why “Dry February” can help
1) A reset for the body
A temporary break from alcohol may:
- support hormonal balance
- reduce inflammation
- improve sleep quality
- enhance overall physical recovery
2) Mental well-being
Many people report increased energy and mental clarity, which can positively influence menstrual regularity, libido, and overall reproductive health.
3) Building healthier habits
Dry February is an opportunity to reassess one’s relationship with alcohol and establish healthier long-term lifestyle choices.
What experts recommend
Although individual studies vary, the general consensus of reproductive health organizations (such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine) is that:
- low or no alcohol consumption improves the chances of conception,
- complete abstinence is recommended during pregnancy,
- for couples experiencing fertility challenges, reducing alcohol intake can be part of a broader lifestyle approach to improving outcomes.