Pregnant Women Should Avoid Beer, Here's Why

Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation, but it also comes with a lot of questions and concerns, especially when it comes to what is safe and unsafe for the developing baby. One common question that often arises is whether it is safe for a pregnant woman to consume beer or other alcoholic beverages. While some sources suggest that light drinking is unlikely to harm the baby, the general consensus among medical professionals is that pregnant women should avoid alcohol altogether. The reason for this recommendation is that alcohol can pass easily from the mother to the baby through the umbilical cord and placenta, and the baby's body is less able to get rid of it, leading to potential harm to the baby's brain and other organs.

Potential risks to the baby

While opinions vary on whether an occasional small drink during pregnancy is harmful to the baby, there is no doubt that heavy drinking is extremely dangerous and can cause severe damage to the baby.

Babies can be born with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) if a mother drinks a lot of alcohol during pregnancy. Children with FAS may be born prematurely and underweight, and they often don't grow well. They may also have distinct facial features, such as a thin upper lip, small eye openings, and a flattened philtrum (the small vertical groove between the upper lip and the nose). These children often struggle with learning language skills and experience learning disabilities, difficulty with attention and memory, hyperactivity, and poor coordination. They may also find it challenging to make friends and relate to their peers.

Even low or moderate amounts of alcohol can be unsafe during pregnancy. Alcohol passes easily from the mother to the baby through the umbilical cord and placenta, and the baby's body is less able to get rid of it. This means that alcohol can stay in the baby's system for a prolonged period, damaging the brain and other organs. A 2020 study found that each week of alcohol consumption between 5 and 10 weeks of pregnancy increased the chance of miscarriage by 8%. Additionally, a 2019 review revealed that for pregnant people who drank five or fewer alcoholic drinks a week, each additional drink per week increased their risk of miscarriage by 6%. Drinking during pregnancy also increases the risk of stillbirth and preterm birth.

Furthermore, alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to high blood pressure disorders such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, which can cause long-term and life-threatening complications for both the parent and the baby. Preeclampsia can result in organ damage and failure, preterm birth, infant health issues, pregnancy loss, and stroke. Eclampsia can cause seizures that may lead to coma or death.

While the risks of light drinking during pregnancy are not fully understood, it is always wise to exercise caution and abstain from alcohol to minimise any potential harm to the baby.

Medical opinions on drinking during pregnancy

Medical professionals are divided on whether pregnant women should completely abstain from alcohol or if light drinking is safe. While some doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid alcohol altogether, others argue that occasional light drinking is unlikely to harm the baby. This discrepancy in advice can be confusing for pregnant women, especially since friends and family may have differing opinions based on their own experiences.

It is well-established that heavy drinking during pregnancy can cause birth defects and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). FASD encompasses a range of conditions, including speech and language delays, learning disabilities, abnormal facial features, small head size, and other physical and developmental problems. However, the effects of small amounts of alcohol on the developing fetus are less understood, and research in this area is ongoing.

Some studies have suggested that low to moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy may not have adverse effects on the child. For example, a 2010 study from the UK found that children of women who drank up to one to two alcoholic drinks per week or on occasion while pregnant did not exhibit increased behavioural or cognitive problems at age five. Additionally, a 2012 Danish study found that low to moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy did not negatively impact executive functioning in five-year-olds. However, it is important to note that the potential for developmental problems linked to maternal drinking could emerge later in childhood, and longer-term follow-up studies are needed.

Despite the conflicting evidence, many medical organisations, including the CDC, the U.S. Surgeon General, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, advise pregnant women to refrain from consuming alcohol altogether. This is because there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, and drinking can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and lifelong disabilities for the baby. Alcohol passes easily from the mother to the baby, and the baby's body is less able to get rid of it, leading to potential damage to the brain and other organs.

Ultimately, the decision to drink during pregnancy is a personal one that should be made in consultation with a trusted healthcare provider. Pregnant women should also be aware of certain risk factors, such as liver disease, a history of addiction, or taking medications that may interact with alcohol, which may increase the risks associated with drinking during pregnancy.

Drinking alcohol while breastfeeding

Drinking alcohol while pregnant is a big "no". Even a beer that’s labelled “non-alcoholic” may contain traces of alcohol, and there is no established "safe" amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Alcohol can cause severe damage to an unborn child, and can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or lifelong disabilities.

Once a baby is born, however, birthing and breastfeeding parents can safely drink a beer or two, provided they have clearance from their healthcare provider. The CDC recommends drinking no more than the equivalent of one alcoholic beverage at a time. For beer, this would be 12 ounces of a 5% beer.

Alcohol can pass into breast milk, and then into the baby when they feed. An occasional drink is unlikely to harm the baby, especially if the parent waits at least 2 hours after drinking before feeding. However, regularly drinking above the recommended limits can be harmful to the baby and the breastfeeding parent. Aside from the known health risks of excessive alcohol consumption, drinking too much can decrease milk supply, and may cause sleep, growth, and developmental problems for the baby.

To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, it's safest not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis. If a breastfeeding parent regularly drinks more than 14 units a week, they may find it helpful to discuss this with their health visitor or GP.

How to avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can have serious health implications for the baby, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), preterm birth, birth defects, and low birth weight. It is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Even low or moderate amounts of alcohol can be harmful during pregnancy, and there is no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during this time. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women abstain from drinking alcohol entirely.

• Get help before you get pregnant: If you think you may have a problem with alcohol, it is advisable to seek help before you become pregnant. Speak to your healthcare provider, who can recommend programs and support groups to assist you in quitting.
• Stop drinking immediately if you are planning to become pregnant: If you are trying to conceive, it is best to stop drinking alcohol altogether. This gives you and your baby the best chance for a healthy pregnancy.
• Communicate your intentions: Let your partner, friends, and family know that you will not be drinking alcohol during your pregnancy. Their support and understanding can make it easier to avoid alcohol.
• Avoid drinking triggers: Stay away from situations or places where you typically consume alcohol. Removing yourself from triggering environments can make it easier to resist the urge to drink.
• Remove alcohol from your home: Get rid of all alcoholic beverages in your home to eliminate the temptation and ease the transition to a sober lifestyle.
• Seek support: If you need help to stop drinking, there are various support groups and resources available. Consider joining an Alcoholics Anonymous support group or contacting organizations like the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
• Speak to your healthcare provider: Be open and honest with your doctor or midwife about your drinking habits. They can provide advice, support, and referrals to alcohol treatment programs if needed.
• Prioritize your and your baby's health: Remember that abstaining from alcohol is a small sacrifice compared to the potential risks to your baby's health. This period of abstinence is temporary, and you can always revisit your drinking habits after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What to do if you're struggling to cut down on alcohol

Should a Pregnant Woman Drink Beer?

It is strongly advised that pregnant women avoid drinking alcohol, including beer, as there is no known safe amount. Alcohol is known to easily pass from mother to baby, and the baby's body is less able to get rid of it, leading to potential damage to the baby's brain and other organs. Drinking during pregnancy can cause complications, miscarriage, preterm birth, and lifelong disabilities for the baby.

Cutting down on alcohol can be challenging, but here are some strategies to help you:

• Understand the benefits of reducing your alcohol intake: Cutting back on alcohol can improve your health, save you money, enhance your relationships, and positively impact your appearance and energy levels.
• Set clear goals and track your progress: Decide on a realistic drinking goal, such as limiting the number of drinks per occasion or the number of drinking days per week. Use a mobile app or journal to monitor your alcohol consumption and track your progress.
• Switch to smaller glasses or bottles: Opt for smaller glasses or bottles when pouring yourself a drink. This simple change can help reduce the overall amount you consume.
• Explore non-alcoholic alternatives: Experiment with non-alcoholic drinks, such as alcohol-free beers and wines, fruit cordials, or mocktails. Find options that you genuinely enjoy so you don't feel like you're missing out.
• Measure your drinks: It's easy to underestimate how much alcohol you're consuming when pouring at home. Use a measuring cup to accurately measure your drinks and ensure you don't exceed the recommended limits.
• Incorporate drink-free days: Aim to have several days each week where you don't drink any alcohol. Gradually increase the number of drink-free days over time.
• Change your drinking habits: Avoid automatically restocking alcohol at home, and keep it out of sight. Don't keep chilled wine or beer in the fridge unless you plan to consume it immediately.
• Be mindful of triggers: Identify situations or cues that trigger your drinking and plan alternative activities or alcohol-free drinks instead. For example, if you usually drink while watching TV, opt for a non-alcoholic beverage and snacks instead.
• Get support: Enlist the help of your partner, housemate, or friends to keep you accountable and support your efforts to cut down. Consider joining a support group or community, such as Club Soda, to connect with others on a similar journey.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate your achievements along the way. Treat yourself to something special, like renting a movie or buying something you've had your eye on, when you reach a milestone.
• Don't be too hard on yourself: Slip-ups are normal and part of the process. If you drink more than intended, don't beat yourself up. Reflect on what triggered it and use it as a learning opportunity to improve in the future.

Frequently asked questions