Drinking alcohol in early pregnancy

Researchers from the University of Helsinki have been undertaking studies to try to learn more about the process by which alcohol can negatively affect foetal development.  Results appear to indicate that even alcohol consumption in the first few weeks of pregnancy may cause damage, leading to symptoms of foetal alcohol syndrome including decreased growth rate and hyperactivity.

These results appear to support The Department of Health recommendation to avoid alcohol during pregnancy.

Read the study abstract here

RCM report can be found here

For more information on alcohol visit out “Be Healthy” page