No, it is not better to use alcohol to help with stress.  Alcohol is a drug that can cause serious harm to an unborn child, more so than stress. Try other strategies to reduce your stress, such as exercise, talking to someone you trust, relaxing outdoors, or speaking to a counsellor. Check out these strategies to reduce stress from Health Direct and Healthline. Mind the Bump is a free mindfulness app for individuals and couples, which helps support emotional wellbeing in preparation for having a baby. Where alcohol exposure has occurred, lowering stress levels reduces the likelihood of negative outcomes for the baby. Australia has a strong drinking culture, with alcohol commonly used for socialising, relaxation, and to cope with stress and sadness. It can be very challenging to navigate this culture when pregnant. Read these tips for saying no to alcohol. Alcohol can also have long term negative health impacts for you. If you’re struggling to stop drinking, please contact a support service.