If you’re trying to conceive, it’s tempting to have a glass or two of your favourite tipple to relax and de-stress.

But research in the British Medical Journal[1] shows that for women, alcohol can disrupt the hormonal balance during the menstrual cycle and reduce the chances of getting pregnant by half.

For men too, drinking can reduce sperm count and motility, and increase the levels of abnormal sperm. Importantly, alcohol also inhibits the body’s ability to use zinc - one of the most important minerals in male fertility.

Radio presenter, Zoe Ball talked about trying for a second child on the Ken Bruce show last month.[2] She and her husband gave up alcohol earlier this year and announced in July they’re now expecting a baby after five years.

So to give yourselves the healthiest eggs and sperm, and the best chance of becoming pregnant, leave the alcohol alone for three months before you try to conceive. It really will be worth it.

[2] 6 August 2009; BBC Radio 2.