DRYMESTER: Go alcohol-free during pregnancy
Drinking alcohol at any stage of pregnancy can harm your baby’s development and may lead to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). There is no safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy – it can result in lifelong disabilities for your child.
We know going alcohol free during pregnancy might be difficult for some people. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. We’re here to support you every step of the way with practical advice, resources, and connections to local services.
What is fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)?
FASD can happen when alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to her baby through the placenta.
Your baby cannot process alcohol well, which means it can stay in their body for a long time. Alcohol can damage their brain and body and stop them from developing normally in the womb.
This can result in the loss of the pregnancy. Babies who survive may be left with lifelong disabilities.
It’s important to remember, there is no safe amount and no safe time to drink alcohol during pregnancy.
Watch the below video to find out more about FASD.
Prevent FASD
FASD is completely avoidable if you do not drink alcohol while you’re pregnant. The risk of FASD is higher the more you drink.
There’s no proven “safe” level of alcohol in pregnancy. Not drinking at all is the safest approach.
Characteristics of FASD
FASD can cause problems with: 
- movement, balance, vision and hearing
- learning, such as problems with thinking, concentration, and memory
- managing emotions and developing social skills
- hyperactivity and impulse control
- communication, such as problems with speech
- the joints, muscles, bones, and organs, such as the kidneys and heart
These problems are permanent, though early treatment and support can help limit their impact on a child’s life.
The type of FASD symptoms a baby has and how severe they are is different depending on how often, and how much, the mother drank during pregnancy. The greater the amount of alcohol consumed, the more severe the symptoms tend to be.
Get support
If you’re pregnant and struggling with an alcohol problem, it’s important to seek support. 
- Book an appointment with your midwife or GP practice: They can provide advice and support to help you to have an alcohol free pregnancy..
- Contact local specialist services: If you need additional support, Greater Manchester local services can help. Visit our A-Z service finder.
- Use the Try Dry app: Developed by Alcohol Change UK, this free app helps you manage your alcohol consumption and track your progress. Download it from the App Store or Google Play.
Going alcohol free during pregnancy isn’t always easy
We understand that going alcohol-free may be challenging for some people. If you experience symptoms like shaking, sweating, or feeling sick and anxious before your first drink of the day, it’s important to seek medical advice before you stop drinking completely. Suddenly stopping without professional support can be dangerous.
Please speak to you midwife or GP practice to discuss going alcohol free safely. Alternatively contact a local service or view support services below to find the right support plan for you.
