Alcohol and pregnancy

3 min read

No amount of alcohol has been proven safe in pregnancy, and no stage has been proven safe either. Alcohol reaches the baby through the placenta and can affect development, so all major health bodies say the safest choice is to have none.

If you had a drink before you knew you were pregnant, please do not panic. Stop now, and mention it to your doctor or midwife. Small amounts early on are very unlikely to cause harm, and stopping now is what helps.

Alcohol can hide in places you might not expect: alcohol-free beer and wine can contain up to 0.5%, kombucha is fermented, and desserts like tiramisu or flambéed dishes may contain it. Cooking removes only part of the alcohol. Choose products labeled 0.0% and ask about sauces.

For social occasions, have a favorite non-alcoholic drink ready: sparkling water with lime, a fruit and mint mocktail or a virgin cocktail. Most people are happy to help and few will ask why.