During pregnancy, not a single drink: zero tolerance for alcohol

Can I drink alcohol during pregnancy? The answer is very simple: no, not even a single drink. Alcohol can harm the baby's growth and their neurodevelopment by going directly to fetus through the placenta.The consequences if that happens are very serious: physical defects, learning and emotional problems, often associated with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. That's why the answer is so clear: during pregnancy, not a drop of alcohol.

Why is alcohol toxic to the fetal brain?

If alcohol can be considered toxic to a developing brain, it's easy to understand that its toxicity is even greater for a developing brain. Therefore, every time a pregnant woman consumes any alcoholic beverage, this toxin reaches the fetal brain within minutes, interfering with its development. Again, a single drink once a day might not be harmful, but would we give a glass of wine to a two-year-old? The answer is obvious: no. Therefore, let's not give it to our unborn child. 

What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and what are the consequences for the baby?

The most severe form caused by excessive consumption is the fetal alcohol syndrome, This condition causes intellectual disability and malformations. Children born with these disorders may exhibit a range of problems, including medical, behavioral, educational, and social difficulties; they suffer from facial abnormalities, including widely spaced and narrow eyes, growth problems, and nervous system abnormalities.

Diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) can be difficult because there is no specific medical test, such as a blood test. During pregnancy, suspicion may arise in cases of severe growth retardation or central nervous system abnormalities, which are more common in severe cases. Most often, the diagnosis is made after birth, by questioning the mother about her alcohol consumption during pregnancy or if any unusual features are observed in the baby. FASD is a lifelong condition, and there is no specific treatment. 

There is no known safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy. Even small amounts can interfere with brain development and cause behavioral and learning problems. It can also impair nutrient absorption and fetal growth, and is associated with a higher risk of premature birth.
Therefore, the recommendation is clear: Alcohol should not be consumed at any time or in any amount throughout pregnancy, especially during the first few months, as there is always a possibility that it may interfere with some critical process of fetal brain development.

Social alcohol consumption during pregnancy

Did you know that more than half of pregnant women consume alcohol during their nine months of pregnancy? And not only that: only 35% of pregnant women are aware that even a single drink can be harmful. These figures come from a recent study on alcohol by BCNatal Research, which highlights the need to raise awareness among pregnant women about the risks of alcohol. “Alcohol consumption is so integrated into daily life that ingesting small amounts is seen as harmless or is not considered as real consumption,”, explains Dr. Gómez-Roig, lead researcher of the study.
The results of the study, which is published in the journal Alcohol, This has led researchers to call for awareness campaigns similar to those carried out with tobacco, because any alcohol consumption can negatively impact the baby's growth and affect their neurodevelopment.

What if I consumed alcohol before I knew I was pregnant?

One of the most common questions after confirming a pregnancy is the concern about having consumed alcohol or tobacco while already a few days pregnant but unaware of it. In this case, it's best to remain calm, as this is a very early stage of pregnancy in which the fetal brain has not yet begun to develop. However, if you are consciously trying to conceive, it is highly recommended to reduce or avoid the consumption of these substances to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby.

What drinks can replace alcohol during pregnancy?

You can make refreshing and healthy drinks by adding a little fruit juice to mineral water (without sugar or with just a little). There are also non-alcoholic cocktails… “but remember: the best drink during pregnancy is water!”

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Literature:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0741832917309072