Alcohol and Pregnancy . . . Why Take the Risk?

A new Vital Signs report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alcohol and Pregnancy highlights the fact that:

• More than 3 million US women are at risk of exposing their developing baby to alcohol. 
• 3 in 4 women who want to get pregnant as soon as possible report drinking alcohol. 
• 100% Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are completely preventable. 

Why take the risk?

• Women who are pregnant or who might be pregnant should be aware that any level of alcohol use could harm their baby.

• All types of alcohol can be harmful, including all wine and beer.

• The baby’s brain, body, and organs are developing throughout pregnancy and can be affected by alcohol at any time.

• Drinking while pregnant can also increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Read the report, view an infographic with data and learn about prevention.