Periconception tip #5 of the 10 periconception tips that will help you improve your pregnancy chances and have a healthy baby:

Stop Smoking and drinking alcohol and go easy on the coffee.

Smoking has negative impacts both on the woman and the man. Studies have shown that smoking ten or more cigarettes per day has a negative effect on egg production. And in men cigarette smoke constricts blood vessels which in turn negatively effects sperm by altering oxygen consumption and nutrient intake.

Alcohol affects your hormones. Alcohol lowers estrogen levels, which can interfere with ovulation. In addition, it can increase the risk of having a miscarriage and fetal malformations. Men who drink have lower sperm counts and decreased fertility.

High doses of caffeine, such as three cups or more of coffee can also negatively affect a woman's chance of conceiving.

Previous periconception tip                            Next periconception tip