Alcohol could affect your fertility more than you think

Most people are aware that alcohol should be avoided in pregnancy. But did you know that drinking alcohol can affect fertility?

Drinking any amount of alcohol can make it more difficult to conceive. Despite no definite cut off with alcohol intake and fertility, it is recommended that people do not drink when trying to conceive.

How much is enough?

This advice is supported by recent research from the US that showed the associations between drinking alcohol and decreased chances of successful conception.

It is thought that alcohol consumption disturbs the delicate sequence of hormonal events around ovulation, fertilisation, and implantation. Even light drinking. (What?!)

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie…

Socialising and drinking in Australia tend to go hand in hand. Heavy drinking is seen as acceptable in almost all social situations, from weddings to sports matches, and even at baby showers.

Binge drinking is not uncommon – one in three Australians drink more than they should on a single occasion. (This resource from Your Fertility has a great run down on what a standard drink looks like).

Want more reasons?

Reducing or quitting alcohol can improve your life in many ways. It can:

• improve your mood and sleep,
• increase your energy,
• improve your relationships with your loved ones,
• help you perform better at work,
• lower your risk of long-term health problems such as cancer and heart disease, and
• save you money.

Here are ten top tips from UK’s drinkaware on how to socialise without alcohol.

1. Plan ahead. If you know you don’t want to drink on a night out, a little bit of planning ahead can make things much easier. Deciding on an alternative drink to have before you go out can also help you avoid stumbling.
2. Tell people. This can have a few benefits – announcing your intentions can give you the confidence and motivation to stick to them. Friends can also offer support if you need it, and it helps avoid any awkward moments.
3. Be ready for peer pressure. People will usually move on or respect your decision if you stand firm.
4. Explore alcohol-free alternatives. Alcohol-free beers, wines and spirits are an easy replacement for your usual tipple.
5. Organise some alcohol-free activities. Some classic drink-free nights out that never get boring include trips to the cinema, late-night food markets, theatre, or bowling.
6. Watch your savings grow. Then every month, enjoy putting that money towards a treat or something else you’ve been meaning to get.
7. Try some new hobbies and grow your network. You might have an old interest you always wanted to pursue or try something completely new.
8. Get active. Not only will you be getting the health benefits of drinking less, like more energy and better sleep but you’ll be getting fit too.
9. Have some plans for the morning after. Make sure it’s something you really look forward to and you’ll be more determined to stay alcohol-free the night before.
10. Celebrate your progress. Drink-free nights are something to be proud of, so celebrate them. You’ve stuck to your goals, saved some money, and made a great step towards improving your health and fertility.

 

If you need more help or support please speak with your GP or try one of the available helplines like Hello Sunday Morning or Counselling Online.

 

IMAGE CREDIT: Unsplash/ Wine Mattheieu Joannon

IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Three wine glasses being held up together to touch