Everything You Need To Know About In Vitro Fertilization

Smoking And Alcohol Use

When either partner smokes, the chances of IVF success decline. Women who smoke may need a higher dosage of fertility drugs to stimulate their ovaries. Smokers, in general, have lower implantation rates than non-smokers. People who smoke often require twice as many IVF attempts. Alcohol can also impair fertility, but the exact impact is unknown. In a study of more than 2500 couples undergoing IVF, the researchers found that couples who drank four or more drinks a week just prior to undergoing fertility treatments, they had a 48% higher risk of failed fertilization and a 21% lowered chance of a live birth. While most couples undergoing IVF abstain from alcohol during the cycle, it may be important to limit it before starting IVF as well.