However, it poses extreme and unique risks to the fetus and is associated with fetal alcohol syndrome. Alcohol ingested by a pregnant woman easily passes across the placental barrier to the fetus. Because of this, drinking alcohol may adversely affect the development of the baby. The incidence of fetal alcohol syndrome varies from 1 out of 1,500 to 1 out of 600 live births. This wide range is related to differences in drinking practices.
Counseling is indicated to help prevent recurrence.
Sexually active women who drink heavily or admit to alcoholism should use highly effective contraceptive measures and control drinking behaviors or discontinue the use of alcohol prior to attempting to conceive. Consumption of alcohol by a pregnant woman may be the first indicator of potential fetal alcohol syndrome. As the baby grows, there may be evidence of delayed mental development. Women trying to conceive and pregnant women are encouraged to avoid drinking alcohol in any quantity. Pregnant alcoholic women should be involved in comprehensive alcohol abuse rehabilitation programs.