NO ALCOHOL DURING PREGNANCY is a message for all times ...
In these times of isolation, increased stress from loss of jobs, working from home, missing family and friends and an unknown future ... it can be difficult to abstain from alcohol when partners or other family members are drinking and sharing the experience on new online platforms. At this time it is even more important that we support women who are planning a pregnancy, who are pregnant or breastfeeding to not drink alcohol.
Why is alcohol as risk?
Alcohol crosses the placenta and can interrupt or change the normal development of a fetus, including the brain and other organs at any stage during pregnancy. The baby is exposed to the same level of alcohol as the mother.
No amount of alcohol at any time during pregnancy is guaranteed to be completely 'safe' or 'risk free' for the developing baby.
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy is associated with a range of impairments which can be physical, cognitive and behavioural.
What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) occurs in all parts of Australian society where alcohol is consumed. It is a social issue not just a medical condition.
FASD is a:
- diagnostic term for severe neurodevelopmental impairments that result from prenatal alcohol exposure
- condition that has lifelong impacts on individuals, their families, caregivers and the wider community
It is not about attributing blame. It is everyone's responsibility to educate, support and assist - partners, family members, friends, health professionals.
Australian Guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol
The Australian guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol includes information about reducing the risk over a lifetime, risk of injury on a single occasion of drinking, children and young people and alcoho, and pregnancy and breastfeeding
Guideline 4 states:
For women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, not drinking is the safest option.
You can find more information on the FASD Hub
COVID-19 and alcohol and pregnancy NOFASD Australia
Resources for women and health professionals Women Want to Know
Go alcohol free during pregnancy Pregnant Pause
Information and videos for GPs GP ask the question
Information and resources for families
Australian Government Department of Health
- Head to Health COVID-19 Support - Help you find the right digital mental health resources for your needs
Emerging Minds
Raising Children Network
Telethon Kids Institute
Other resources
Information and resources for health professionals
Info sheet for consumers (eMental Health Practice)
DBT Skills for COVID-19 (online webinar – therapist reflecting on her own application of DBT skills during COVID)
List of available Australian online mental health programs
National eTherapy Centre at Swinburne – video consultation – a practical guide
Remote therapy tips – with links to further info and videos, e-courses
Therapy online with Children: tips to make the transition (Sarah Schubert - video)
Video conferencing in child therapy: webinar for psychologists
Working with children via telehealth - instructional video