Pregnancy & Baby 

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Is an occasional glass of wine OK?

We used to say that an occasional glass of wine was fine during pregnancy; it was even recommended at times. But since that time (1973), we have identified foetal alcohol syndrome and foetal alcohol effect, which are characterised by prenatal and postnatal growth deficiency, mental retardation, behavioural disturbances and an atypical facial appearance. Congenital heart defects and brain anomalies are common and other major congenital anomalies, such as spina bifida, limb defects and genitourinary defects, are seen but less commonly.

This syndrome occurs in 30 to 40 per cent of women who are alcoholics.

It results from intake well above what you describe as your weekly consumption. But as little as three ounces of absolute alcohol a day during pregnancy can result in foetal alcohol syndrome consequences.

Lesser amounts may be associated with a variety of less severe manifestations in children, called foetal alcohol effects. Minor anomalies, moderate growth deficiency, mild mental deficits, and subtle behavioural abnormalities are seen more frequently among children of women who averaged more than two to four alcoholic drinks daily during pregnancy.

One study reported that 30 per cent of offspring exposed to 14oz of absolute alcohol or more around the time of conception, or 3.5oz or more during pregnancy had impaired neurological functions.

The problem with recommending ANY safe level of alcohol intake during pregnancy is that the safe levels of episodic drinking have not been clearly defined. This is why we advise abstaining from alcohol completely during pregnancy.

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