Alcohol and Pregnancy: No Safe Level Known

A television news story titled, “Can Pregnant Women Drink Alcohol in Moderation” may have left a mistaken impression that some alcohol can be deemed safe during pregnancy. However, no safe level of alcohol use in pregnancy has been determined.


The effects of alcohol can be more severe than any illegal drug taken during pregnancy. Daily heavy alcohol use (more than 5 drinks per day) has been shown to increase the risk for serious physical, growth and permanent learning problems during pregnancy. However, the effects on infants whose mothers drank occasionally, lightly or even moderately during pregnancy are not clear. Some studies find a higher chance for miscarriage, low birth weight and birth defects, as well as behavioral and developmental problems with occasional or low amounts of alcohol drinking. Other studies did not show these findings. There are many reasons why the results could vary; different studies may include women with other pregnancy risk factors like smoking, it is difficult to measure exactly how much people drink and there are differences in how women and babies break down or metabolize alcohol. There is no test to check if a baby could be affected by small amounts of alcohol. It is safest to stop drinking alcohol while attempting to become pregnant, during a pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. This is one of the most important things you can do for your baby’s future. Please call the toll free, confidential number of 866-626-6847 if you have questions or concerns regarding alcohol and pregnancy.