Q&A: Can alchohol and diet drinks affect fertility?

by Marie O'Sullivan, RN

Does alcohol affect fertility? My husband and I drink on weekends, although I have stopped during the past month as we are trying to conceive. I keep hearing conflicting advice and comments such as: "I got pregnant when I was drunk." I do not drink excessively, but was wondering how much of a role alcohol plays in affecting fertility.

Also, what about caffeine and diet pop? I have been drinking decaf coffee in the morning and if I have a soda, it is usually a caffeine-free, diet pop. I do not know if this is a problem.

This month, I have started taking prenatal vitamins, which I plan to continue taking for a year. I work out three times a week and am very cautious about fat and calories and getting a balanced diet.

Most people drink an occasional alcoholic beverage when they are trying to conceive without any problems. But, as Dr. Gerald DiLeo, MD, says, "A safe level of alcohol consumption in pregnancy has never been established." Why not just take a pass this holiday, or order a fancy nonalcoholic cocktail?

Dr. DiLeo also says, about diet soda, that it should be all right, and cites some studies on aspartame-containing beverages.

I have always thought it best to eat and drink as if you were pregnant when you are trying to conceive. As always, talk to your OB, as each physician has different opinions.

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