Can alcohol during pregnancy cause serious health problems?
Yes. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause serious health issues in a baby, most notably conditions grouped under Alcohol-Related Birth Defects and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). These can affect a child’s physical development, brain development, and behavior, with lifelong consequences.
What kinds of health issues can alcohol cause?
Alcohol can damage fetal development, which may lead to a range of problems, including:
- Growth problems before and after birth
- Learning difficulties and developmental delays
- Problems with attention, behavior, and social functioning
- Structural birth defects and other physical abnormalities
The specific outcomes vary by how much alcohol is consumed, how often, and when during pregnancy the drinking occurs.
Does the risk depend on how much alcohol is consumed?
Yes. The risk generally increases with higher amounts and more frequent drinking. But serious harm can still occur even with lower levels—there isn’t a known “safe” amount or safe timing during pregnancy.
What about binge drinking or drinking early in pregnancy?
Binge drinking (drinking large amounts in a short time) can be especially harmful because it exposes the fetus to high alcohol levels. Drinking early in pregnancy is also risky because key stages of development occur early, sometimes before a person knows they are pregnant.
What should someone do if they already drank during pregnancy?
If someone drank alcohol while pregnant, the most important next step is to stop drinking and speak with a healthcare professional as soon as possible for guidance and support. Early medical support can help with monitoring the pregnancy and addressing developmental needs after birth.