If you have trouble with alcohol use, tell your obstetric provider. There are many things that can be done to help you. Your provider can help you find a treatment program. Your provider may order a special ultrasound of the fetuses heart. Alcohol is an addictive drug.
Alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening for heavy drinkers.
Withdrawal is best done in the hospital with professional help. Most of the drugs used to treat the symptoms of withdrawal are safe for the fetus, and will help the fetus tolerate the withdrawal better. Newborn babies can go through withdrawal if they have been exposed to alcohol through out the pregnancy. These babies need special care in neonatal intensive care units. It is important that the obstetric provider knows this may be a problem.