Male alcohol consumption and fecundity in couples attending an infertility clinic.

The relationship between male alcohol intake and fertility was studied for 258 couples attending an infertility clinic. 21% consumed less than 1 unit per week on average, 10% consumed between 1 and 5 units per week, 23% consumed between 6 and 10 units per week, 27% consumed 11 to 20 units per week and 19% consumed more than 20 units per week. There was no significant association between alcohol consumption and any semen parameter. 110 men had a female partner who was apparently normal. There was no significant difference in the alcohol intake between the 'normal' and 'abnormal' female groups. Couples were followed-up for up to 32 months. Sixteen women had a treatment independent conception within the 'normal' female group. There was no significant association between the amount of alcohol consumed per week and the fertility outcome.