Alcohol & pregnancy don't mix - AFS launches new campaign

31/10/2008

As more research is published about drinking alcohol during pregnancy, Alcohol Focus Scotland launches a new campaign - 'Alcohol and pregnancy don't mix'.

The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of the 'avoid alcohol when pregnant' message among women who are pregnant, are thinking of trying for a baby, and among the wider population who may encourage women to have a drink without understanding the possible harm.

We are concerned that women have been given conflicting advice about whether or not drinking alcohol during pregnancy will cause harm to their developing baby. There is proven risk that heavy drinking during pregnancy can lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) however the exact level for risky consumption is unknown. What we do know is that the risk of damage increases the more alcohol is consumed and that binge drinking is especially harmful. This means that no alcohol is the best and safest choice. This is also the advice given by Scotland's Chief Medical Officer and the British Medical Association.

Jack Law, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland said:

"Naturally, women want the best for their unborn child. Having an alcohol-free pregnancy is the best choice because, while there is uncertainty about the safety of drinking small amounts of alcohol, this is the only way to put women's minds at rest that they are giving their baby the best possible start. We want to hear a clear and consistent message from healthcare professionals and the media that alcohol and pregnancy don't mix, and we want to see improved methods of diagnosing Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and FASD so we can get an accurate picture of the number of children born with alcohol-related damage."

The campaign will be promoted by leaflets, posters, radio and web advertising during November. Women who have already been drinking while pregnant will be encouraged to talk to their midwife or doctor or to contact an alcohol support agency.

For more information and to download the leaflet, posters and radio advert click here.