Warning
  • No time during pregnancy is safe to drink alcohol, and harm can occur early, before a woman even realises she is pregnant.
  • Alcohol use can reduce fertility in both men and women.
  • Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, fetal alcohol syndrome and other birth defects can be prevented if women cease intake of alcohol before conception.
  • Alcohol use can also contribute to developmental delays and behavioural problems in children.
  • Drinking alcohol has been shown to increase a woman’s risk of miscarriage.
  • Heavy drinking (more than 6 units per day) or binge drinking (5 or more units on one occasion) during the first trimester is particularly harmful to the development and life chances of a fetus.
  • Referral to specialist drugs and alcohol services should be offered.

 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 30/09/2021

Next review date: 30/09/2025

Author(s): West of Scotland Managed Clinical Network for Sexual Health Clinical Guidelines Group .

Version: 3.1

Approved By: West of Scotland Managed Clinical Network in Sexual Health