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Alcohol During Pregnancy: Risks And Effects

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy poses serious risks to both the mother and the unborn child. It is recommended to avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy and while attempting to conceive. Alcohol can lead to various complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, low birth weight, and lifelong disabilities. Read on to know the risks of consuming alcohol during pregnancy.

Can any amount of alcohol be considered safe during pregnancy?

There is no safe amount during pregnancy whatsoever. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol use during pregnancy or while attempting to conceive is not known to be safe. Additionally, there is never a safe period to drink when expecting. All wines and beers are equally dangerous when it comes to alcohol.

How does alcohol reach the baby?

The liquor you’re drinking passes from your bloodstream to your baby’s through the placenta, posing life-threatening hazards to the unborn child. As the child has no developed liver to process alcohol, the alcohol remains in the baby’s bloodstream longer than yours, further increasing the exposure risk.

Dangers of Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy

This includes:

• Miscarriage

• Stillbirth

• Premature birth

• Low birth weight

• Lifelong physical, behavioural, and intellectual disabilities

• Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)

Effect of Alcohol on Foetus’ Development

According to the Embryo Project Encyclopedia, alcohol may affect the foetus’ development at any stage, here’s how:

Week 1:

Drinking can interfere with the implantation of the fertilised egg and increase the risk of miscarriage.

Week 3:

It may lead to anomalies in facial features.

Week 4:

It may prevent the heart from developing normally, leading to cardiac abnormalities.

Week 5:

Drinking might impair the development of the eyes, resulting in conditions like microphthalmia.

Week 6:

It might injure the brain's connecting region, facilitating communication.

Week 7:

While most organs are formed, alcohol can still affect the baby's brain growth and overall development.

Can drinking alcohol during pregnancy lead to miscarriage?

Yes, expecting mothers who consume alcohol are more likely to experience a miscarriage.

Can someone with an alcohol use disorder have a healthy baby?

As per CDC, “Every pregnancy is different. Alcohol use during pregnancy might affect one baby more than another.”

Can alcohol affect breastfeeding?

Yes, it can pass into breast milk and negatively impact the baby.

Conclusion

In case you have consumed any amount of alcohol while expecting, it’s highly advisable to see an expert and seek guidance. It’s the most significant step to avoid any potential risks and ensure the baby's well-being.

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Source: nidirect.gov.uk, embryo.asu.edu, cdc.gov

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on April 26, 2024