Alcohol during pregnancy

It is best to avoid alcohol completely during your pregnancy, as any alcohol you drink while pregnant will reach your baby and may cause harm. Women trying to conceive should avoid drinking alcohol, as it reduces your chances of getting pregnant.

Fetal alcohol syndrome

There is evidence that even drinking one or two units per day can lead to health and development problems for your baby. Even small quantities of alcohol can cause Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). FAS causes long-term learning and behavioural problems later in life, so the choices you make now can have long term effects on your child's adulthood.

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.

While babies usually survive FAS, it can seriously harm their growth and mental development. Your midwife, GP or other healthcare staff will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have.

Breastfeeding and alcohol

Breastfeeding gives your baby the best possible start in life and it’s unlikely that an occasional drink will harm either of you. We know that very small amounts of alcohol pass into your breast milk therefore it is best to keep your drinking to no more than 1-2 units once or twice a week.

If you regularly drink more than this amount it can affect your baby’s development and reduce your milk supply. Small amounts of alcohol pass into breast milk, making it smell different, which may affect your baby’s feeding, sleeping or digestion. If it’s a special occasion and you know you are going to be having a drink, consider expressing your milk in advance (see Expressing your own milk). To be on the safe side you may want to avoid alcohol altogether while you are breastfeeding.