Pregnancy and Drinking Wines: What You Need to Know
A common area of concern during pregnancy is what you can eat and drink while pregnant. It can be difficult to adjust to pregnancy and change without the help of your favorite comfort food or drink, so obviously, you want to find out if your favorite foods and beverages are safe to ingest.
Understanding the Risks of Drinking Wines During Pregnancy
- Alcohol use can be harmful during pregnancy. There is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy.
- There is no safe time during pregnancy to drink alcohol. All types of alcohol can be harmful, including red or white wine, beer, and liquor.
- Excessive alcohol use can have immediate and long-term effects. Excessive drinking includes binge drinking, heavy drinking, and any drinking during pregnancy or by people younger than 21.
- Drinking less is better for your health than drinking more. You can lower your health risks by drinking less or choosing not to drink.
Debunking Common Myths About Drinking Wines During Pregnancy
While non-alcoholic wines offer a tempting alternative, pregnant women should approach them with caution due to trace alcohol content and lack of specific safety studies. Additionally, research studies have produced results that support both sides of the issue, but most medical professionals have settled on a no-alcohol-during-pregnancy blanket rule.
Why Drinking Wines During Pregnancy Can Be a Problem
- Alcohol can cross the placenta, through the umbilical cord, and reach your baby, who is much more vulnerable to its damaging effects.
- Alcohol can damage your baby's developing brain cells and other organs, leading to lifelong physical, mental, and behavioral problems, which is known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
- Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause serious health problems for your baby, including birth defects, physical and behavioral problems that can last for the rest of his or her life.
Expert Recommendations for Drinking Wines During Pregnancy
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, no amount of wine is considered safe to drink during pregnancy. If you drink alcohol during pregnancy, your baby may be at risk of lifelong birth defects. If it is hard for you to stop drinking, talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) or other health care professional about getting help.
Conclusion
Drinking wines during pregnancy is a complicated topic, and it's essential to understand the risks involved. While some research suggests that small amounts of alcohol early in pregnancy may be less risky to the mother's health and the health of their babies, the majority of medical professionals advise against any alcohol consumption during pregnancy. To ensure the health and well-being of your baby, it's best to avoid wine and other alcoholic beverages while expecting.
