Caffeine, alcohol and smoking: do these factors influence fertility treatment success?

This study reviewed the effects of lifestyle factors in couples undergoing fertility treatment.

They found that alcohol consumption and smoking are associated with poorer fertility outcomes. 

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is used to treat infertility. Since ART was first developed, the birth rate has remained at approximately 30%. It is thought that lifestyle factors may affect these rates. Smoking has been considered a risk factor in pregnancy for many years. The consumption of alcohol and caffeine have also been identified as important factors. Many women avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking (CAF) before or during pregnancy. 

It is unclear if CAF are important risk factors in patients undergoing ART.

Smoking: One study found that smoking negatively affects ART outcomes. The odds of becoming pregnant was almost 50% lower in smokers. The risk of miscarriage was more than double the risk of non-smokers. The risk of ectopic pregnancy (embryo attaching outside the womb) was 15 times higher in smokers. Several studies report that female fertility is reduced in those that currently smoke. Embryo quality and endometrial thickness are reduced in smokers. It is unclear if fertility outcomes improve when a patient stops smoking. 

Caffeine: 5 studies investigated the effect of caffeine on ART outcomes. 4 of the studies did not find any link evidence linking caffeine and ART outcomes. In one study, drinking 2–50 mg per day had a negative impact. The odds of not having a live birth were more than 3 times higher. The recommended daily intake of caffeine is less than 200 mg per day. 

Alcohol: 6 studies investigated the effect of alcohol on ART outcomes. Alcohol intake one year before starting ART is not associated with poorer outcomes. Alcohol intake immediately before ART has an increased risk of miscarriage and reduced risk of becoming pregnant. During an ART cycle, alcohol consumption was linked to poorer ART outcomes. Misscariage was more likely in daily alcohol drinkers. Consuming more than 4 alcoholic drinks lowers the chance of live birth.  

The authors concluded that alcohol and smoking are associated with poorer fertility outcomes.

This study was a review of other clinical reports. The quality of the studies varied. Some of the conclusions in this report are stronger than others. 

If you have any concerns regarding fertility please consult with your physician.