It is safest not to drink alcohol at all while you are trying to get pregnant.

Why alcohol is discouraged

Alcohol can make it harder to conceive by disrupting reproductive hormones, affecting ovulation, and lowering fertility in both women and men. Even small amounts can reduce the chance of getting and staying pregnant, and heavy drinking has a clearer, stronger negative effect.

Early pregnancy risks

There is no known safe amount of alcohol in pregnancy, and harm can occur very early, before a missed period or positive test. Because many pregnancies are not recognized for several weeks, major health bodies advise avoiding alcohol completely when trying for a baby to protect against miscarriage, low birth weight, and fetal alcohol effects.

Practical guidance

Health organizations in the UK and other countries recommend not drinking at all if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, since a “safe” level has not been established. If stopping feels difficult, discussing support with a healthcare professional before or while trying to conceive can help you cut down and quit more safely.