There is no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Alcohol can harm both the mother and the baby at any stage of pregnancy. All types of alcohol, including wine, beer, and spirits, carry equal risks and should be avoided entirely.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs): A Preventable Condition
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) are entirely preventable when a baby is not exposed to alcohol before or during pregnancy. Unfortunately, these disorders are a result of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and can cause long-lasting physical, intellectual, and behavioral disabilities in the child.
Why Alcohol Is Dangerous
When a pregnant woman consumes alcohol, it enters her bloodstream and passes to the baby through the umbilical cord. This exposure can result in severe consequences such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and lifelong disabilities in the baby. These disabilities may include developmental delays, physical abnormalities, and behavioral challenges. Children with FFASDcan exhibit the following traits:
Abnormal facial features such as a smooth ridge between the nose and upper lip (philtrum)
Small head size
Shorter-than-average height
Low body weight
Poor coordination
Hyperactivity and difficulty with attention
Learning disabilities and speech delays
Intellectual disabilities or low IQ
Problems with reasoning and judgment
Vision or hearing problems
Heart, kidney, or bone issues
Sleep and feeding difficulties during infancy
The Risk of Polysubstance Use During Pregnancy
It is also common for pregnant women to use multiple substances, including alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Using these substances together further increases the risks to both the mother and the baby. Therefore, it is crucial to cease all substance use during pregnancy to avoid harming the child.
How Much Alcohol Is Dangerous?
No amount of alcohol consumption is considered safe during pregnancy. Even small amounts can be harmful to the baby’s development. Alcohol can negatively affect the baby at any time during the pregnancy, including before the woman even knows she is pregnant. In the first trimester, alcohol use can cause abnormal facial features, and throughout the pregnancy, it can result in growth problems and damage to the baby’s developing brain.
When Alcohol Is Dangerous
Alcohol can cause serious problems at any stage of pregnancy. During the first three months, alcohol exposure may lead to facial abnormalities, while later stages can affect the baby’s brain development, growth, and overall health. The baby’s central nervous system continues to develop throughout pregnancy, and alcohol can impact it at any time.
The Importance of Stopping Alcohol Use
It is never too late to stop drinking during pregnancy. Stopping alcohol consumption can significantly improve the baby’s health and well-being. The sooner a mother stops drinking, the better the chances are for a healthier pregnancy and baby.
Getting Help
If you are pregnant or planning to conceive and struggling with alcohol use, it is essential to seek help. Contact your healthcare provider, a local Alcoholics Anonymous group, or an alcohol treatment center to get the support you need.
Resources:
SAMHSA Treatment Locator – FindTreatment.gov: A tool to locate drug and alcohol treatment programs nearby.
NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator: Helps adults find alcohol treatment options for themselves or a loved one.
Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.): A fellowship of people who share their experiences and support each other in recovering from alcoholism. You can locate an A.A. program near you.
Taking the first step to seek support can help you overcome alcohol use and ensure a healthier future for you and your baby.
