Is Drinking Alcohol in Early Pregnancy Okay?

Pregnancy is a time of new life, but it can also be a time of confusion and struggle for some expectant mothers. In particular, some women want to know–is drinking alcohol in early pregnancy okay? This question often arises for women who struggle with alcohol addiction and don’t know how to get help. Find out whether drinking alcohol in pregnancy is ever acceptable and how to get the help necessary for a healthy pregnancy and labor.

The Risks of Drinking Alcohol in Early Pregnancy

It is widely recognized that heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to some severe side effects. Drinking alcohol in early pregnancy can be harmful to the mother as well as her unborn child. These risks are proven, which is why there is such an emphasis on alcohol abstinence during pregnancy.

One of the most significant risks of drinking alcohol in early pregnancy is FAS or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. FAS can cause babies to be born at a low weight, and there may be other birth defects present as well. As these babies grow up, they might struggle with learning difficulties, and they may have a hard time making and keeping friends. In short, the mother’s alcohol dependence can impact a baby’s life in many ways from birth all the way through early development.

Drinking Alcohol Before Pregnancy is Recognized

Women who don’t struggle with alcohol addiction often find it relatively easy to stop drinking alcohol once they find out that they are pregnant. However, the biggest concern is drinking alcohol before the pregnancy is recognized. Most women don’t find out that they are pregnant until the pregnancy is several weeks along. Heavy drinking in that period of early pregnancy could lead to severe problems later on.

Women who are thinking about having a child, or who are not using a proven form of birth control, should avoid excessive drinking. Even if you don’t yet know you’re pregnant, heavy drinking could lead to FAS or other health issues for the unborn child.

The Myth of Moderation

Some studies show that occasionally drinking alcohol during pregnancy won’t be harmful to the baby. For anyone who struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, however, it is best to avoid all alcohol when pregnant. To a woman with an alcoholic problem, moderation might still mean an amount that is dangerous to the unborn child. It is almost always best in these cases to seek help and avoid alcohol altogether while pregnant.

Getting Help in Pregnancy and Beyond

If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, but you struggle with alcohol abuse, any drinking in early pregnancy is critical. A private alcohol rehab center for women can be the right choice for many people. At Beaches Recovery, clients can expect all of the following:

• Detox services at Tides Edge
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Behavioral therapy
• 12 Step recovery program
• Group and family therapy

Drinking alcohol in early pregnancy can lead to some serious problems. Instead of taking that risk, turn to Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida. Overcoming alcohol addiction paves the way for a healthier life, a healthy pregnancy, and a healthy baby. Call 866.605.0532 for more information and to take the next step to sobriety for you and your child.