About 50% of all pregnancies are unplanned. As a result, many women will consume alcohol without knowing that they are pregnant. The best thing you can do once you find out you’re pregnant is to stop drinking. This will increase the chance of having a healthy baby. Also, if you are trying to become pregnant, stop drinking now. Click this link to see what you need to know if you are pregnant or planning to be.
In 2005, the surgeon general issued a warning to pregnant women and women who may become pregnant. He stated that women should not drink alcohol if they are pregnant or if they are considering becoming pregnant. He also advised that women who have already consumed alcohol during her pregnancy should stop drinking alcohol.
Some women may find it hard to stop drinking during their pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and you can’t stop drinking you may need help. This may be a disease known as alcoholism. There are many different places that can help you stop drinking. Please click this link for a listing of some of the places you can get help. Even if you have tried a program before and it didn’t work, try again. Drinking alcohol can harm your physical health, behavior and relationships. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, drinking alcohol also can harm your baby. Alcohol can affect your baby's development in the very first weeks—before you know you are pregnant. If you are drinking, you can have a miscarriage or your baby may have some problems, including:
Remember, there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
The best thing to do is to stop drinking during your pregnancy or if you are planning to become pregnant. Please see the links on the left for more information.
 |
|
|
|
Beer = 12oz Glass
|
Wine = 5oz Glass
|
Liquor = 1.5oz Shot Glass
|
Visit the Circle of Hope- Birth Mothers Network.
For Partners, Family, and Friends:
Many women are unaware of the consequences of drinking during pregnancy. Some women believe wine or beer is not alcohol. In many cases, she may be suffering from alcoholism. She may need to know what effects alcohol can have on the baby. She may also need help getting into treatment. In such cases, you should contact a treatment professional at a local addiction center for advice on how to help her.
It's easier to change a habit with the help and support of a partner, friend, or family member. Behavior change is a difficult process, but it may be your support that makes a difference for success.
Here are other things you can do to help:
- Help plan strategies to make it easier to stop or cut back on drinking
- Talk on the telephone for support when needed
- Do fun things together that do not involve alcohol
- Be understanding and be a good listener
- Encourage the use of alternative, nonalcoholic beverages
- Be a cheerleader. Help her believe she can succeed
- Encourage her to follow up with her health care provider.
Suggestions of what NOT to do:
- Don't be judgmental or critical
- Don't expect instant success or perfect results
- Don't get discouraged
- Don't overextend yourself. Be honest about what you are able to do.
Your partner can do many things to help during the pregnancy. He can:
- Help minimize stress for you and your baby
- Be patient and supportive
- Promote good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle
- Make exercise a part of your lives
- Attend prenatal visits with you.
|