Avoiding alcohol in pregnancy
If you’re trying to get pregnant, both you and your partner should avoid alcohol.
If you’re pregnant, it’s safest not to drink any alcohol. Drinking alcohol when you’re pregnant can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth and serious health problems in your baby. And it can increase your own risk of health problems in pregnancy.
No safe levels of alcohol in pregnancy or while breastfeeding
There are no safe levels of alcohol in pregnancy. Drinking alcohol in pregnancy can harm your unborn baby. It’s safest not to drink alcohol while you’re pregnant.
Drinking alcohol in pregnancy can lead to problems with your child’s health, learning, and emotional and social development. One of the most serious problems is fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
If you’re breastfeeding, it’s safest not to drink alcohol. Alcohol passes straight into breastmilk and can affect your baby’s development.
Alternatives to drinking alcohol in pregnancy
You can have non-alcoholic drinks like water, milk, herbal teas and non-alcoholic wine and beer. Check the labels of non-alcoholic drinks, because some contain small amounts of alcohol.
If you drink alcohol to manage stress, look for other ways to relax or treat yourself. For example, you could have a bath or massage or go for a walk.
If you stop drinking in pregnancy, it’s good for your health and your baby’s health. If you need support, speak to your midwife or doctor.