The harm of alcohol on male fertility

It is well known that excessive alcohol consumption can cause serious health problems. Among these, it is important to highlight those related to fertility. Alcohol, in fact, negatively affects both male and female reproductive capacity, which is why experts recommend limited consumption of this substance.

It's always a question of lifestyle

Let's start by saying that damage to fertility is often caused by a combination of unhealthy lifestyles. In fact, those who, in addition to drinking heavily, smoke, sleep little, and/or follow an unhealthy diet, exponentially increase their risk of conception. of seeing their fertility compromised.
Alteration of sperm
With this necessary premise, let's address the issues related to the specific case of alcohol. This substance, in fact, interferes with the functioning of the entire reproductive system. In particular, excessive consumption can significantly reduce the number and function of sperm. This happens because alcohol damages the so-called Leydig cells, responsible for producing testosterone, a hormone essential for the correct formation of sperm and their regular development.

Damage to Sertoli cells

While the task of Leydig cells is to produce testosterone, Sertoli cells are essential for the correct development of spermatogenesis (the process of sperm formation). Alcohol, always in excessive quantities, damages these cells, limiting their ability to effectively influence the maturation of germ cells. According to some studies, daily consumption of high doses of alcohol (more than 80 grams per day, the equivalent of more than a liter of wine per day) can even lead to the arrest of the sperm maturation process.

It prevents the release of hormones from the sexual system

Finally, alcohol can also damage the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), produced by the pituitary gland. Both of these hormones play an important role in testicular function and in the formation and development of sperm.

How much can be done? Should you drink to avoid risking fertility?

To answer this question, we must first consider the individual's overall lifestyle, not only currently but also in the past. Alcohol consumption must also be assessed in light of the presence of other risk factors (weight, smoking, drugs, exposure to pollutants, etc.). In fact, continued consumption of high quantities of alcohol can cause long-term damage.

In general, it is recommended to limit alcoholic beverage consumption (no more than 2-3 alcoholic beverages per day, equivalent to 2 small glasses of wine or 2 cans of beer).