September Campaign – Alcohol and Pregnancy
Our September campaign, Alcohol and Pregnancy, coincides with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) awareness day. This takes place on 9 September, to symbolise the 9 months of pregnancy.
For some time, there was a lot of uncertainty if there was a safe level of alcohol that a woman can drink while she is pregnant. However, the Chief Medical Officers’ have now released the following advice:
- If a woman is pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, the safest approach is to avoid alcohol altogether
- The more alcohol that is drunk, the greater the risk to the baby
- Women who find out they are pregnant after drinking alcohol in the early stages of pregnancy should avoid further drinking
This news was welcomed by Organisations who promote FASD, however, there is still greater awareness needed into the condition.
FASD is an irreversible yet completely preventable condition. If a woman drinks heavily throughout her pregnancy, or even heavily on one occasion during pregnancy, it can increase the chances of their baby being born with FASD.
FASD covers a variety of issues which affect the baby in the womb and range from physical to behavioural. This includes:
- Language and speech delays
- Hyperactivity
- Heart and liver problems
- Impaired vision
- Problems with memory
The following Organisations can provide more information on FASD:
The FASD Trust
National Organisation for Foetal Alcohol Syndrome – UK
We can deliver vital information about the impact of drinking alcohol during pregnancy through our health events, educational sessions or Community Health Information scheme. It is particularly relevant for children and young people, who may not be aware of the danger alcohol has to unborn babies. For more information on how we can help you, get in touch today!