Alcohol during pregnancy

It is best to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy, as any alcohol you drink while pregnant will reach your baby and may cause harm. Women who are trying to conceive should also avoid drinking alcohol.

There is no ‘safe’ time for drinking alcohol during your pregnancy and there is no ‘safe’ amount. We do know that the risk of damage increases the more you drink. Drinking no alcohol during your pregnancy is the best and safest choice.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Regularly drinking and binge drinking in pregnancy can lead to an increased risk of a wide range of development issues and physical disabilities including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Although children with FASD look healthy, the effects can include physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities.

One particular disorder in FASD is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). Children with FAS have restricted growth, distinctive facial features including small eyes and a flat area between the nose and upper lip, and lifelong learning and behavioural problems.

If you have any concerns, your midwife, GP or other healthcare staff will be happy to discuss these with you.

Breastfeeding and alcohol

Breastfeeding gives your baby the best possible start in life. It is best to keep your drinking to no more than one to two units once or twice a week as alcohol can pass into breast milk. Even in small amounts, alcohol in your breast milk can affect your baby’s digestion or sleeping pattern and your breast milk may smell different.

If it's a special occasion and you know you are going to be having a drink, you may wish to consider expressing your milk in advance. To be on the safe side you may want to avoid alcohol altogether while you are breastfeeding.