Alcohol in pregnancy; Drinking alcohol during pregnancy
Women who are pregnant or who are trying to get pregnant should avoid drinking any amount of alcohol. Pregnant women with alcoholism should join an alcohol abuse rehabilitation program and be checked closely by a health care provider throughout pregnancy.
The following organizations may offer assistance:
See also: Alcoholism - support group
The outcome for infants with fetal alcohol syndrome varies depending on the extent of symptoms, but almost none have normal brain development.
Infants and children with fetal alcohol syndrome have many different problems, which can be difficult to manage. Heart defects may require surgery. There is no effective therapy for mental retardation.
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy may result in:
Complications seen in the infant may include:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are drinking alcohol regularly or heavily, and are finding it difficult to cut back or stop. Also, call if you are drinking alcohol in any amount while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.