Infertility is a growing problem and alcohol consumption is one possible causal factor. In animal studies, alcohol has been shown to decrease steroid hormone concentrations, cause amenorrhea, reduce ovarian weight, inhibit ovulation, and interfere with sperm cell transport through the fallopian tube.

Fecundability is defined as the probability of achieving conception or a recognized pregnancy in a menstrual cycle. From 1992 through 1995, researchers studied 430 Danish couples aged 20 to 35 who were trying to conceive for the first time. The couples were followed up over six menstrual cycles, or until a clinically recognized pregnancy occurred after discontinuation of contraception.

There was an observed reduction of female fecundability even among women with relatively low alcohol intake (5 drinks a week). This was an unexpected outcome the researchers contend had not been reported previously. The effect of higher alcohol intake on women’s fertility is supported by previous studies.

Because this study reaffirmed that a woman’s alcohol intake is associated with decreased fecundability even among women who consume the equivalent of five or fewer drinks, chiropractors should encourage their female patients to avoid intake of alcohol when they are trying to get pregnant.