Avoiding Alcohol during Pregnancy

International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day falls on 9 September 2020 and The Outer Hebrides Alcohol & Drug Partnership (ADP) and NHS Western Isles are using this opportunity to highlight the need to avoid drinking whilst pregnant.  

It is estimated that around three in 100  babies born in the UK are affected by FASD and the effects are life-long.  Children with FASD can have a range of mental, behavioural and learning disabilities as well as physical disabilities and specific facial characteristics.   When drinking through pregnancy, the alcohol in the blood stream passes freely through the placenta into the developing baby.  The fetus is completely unprotected from alcohol circulating in its blood system so the alcohol can destroy brain cells and damage the nervous system and other organs of the baby at any point during the pregnancy

There is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink whilst pregnant so to reduce the risk, the Chief Medical Officer advises that the safest approach for women who are planning a pregnancy, who may be pregnant or for those breastfeeding is to avoid alcohol completely.  To ensure the unborn baby receives the best chance in life avoid drinking alcohol or using drugs, including smoking and stick to a healthy diet.   If you have any concerns or any other issues, have a chat with your midwife or doctor who will offer advice.  

For more information on FASD and why it is best to avoid alcohol during pregnancy or when trying for a baby visit: https://www.nhsinform.scot/ready-steady-baby/pregnancy/looking-after-yourself-and-your-baby/alcohol-and-pregnancy. 

NHS Western Isles Director of Public Health, Dr Maggie Watts, said: “Alcohol is the commonest preventable cause of disability and its impact is lifelong.   Avoiding alcohol when planning for and during pregnancy is ideal – and services are there to help if you find this difficult.  You can speak to your midwife or GP, or look for services through the ADP website. Please don’t take chances – give your baby the best start in life by going without alcohol for nine months.”

For parents and carers of children and young people who may have already been affected by prenatal alcohol exposure visit the FASD Hub Scotland which offers information and support: https://www.adoptionuk.org/Pages/FAQs/Site/scotland/Category/fasd-hub-scotland

If you would like more information please contact the Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership Support Team on 01851 762022 or visit our website: www.outerhebadp.com