BMA Scotland warn women about dangers of alcohol and pregnancy

Women in Scotland are being warned that pregnancy and alcohol is a ‘dangerous cocktail’ by the British Medical Association Scotland.

Currently, women in England are advised by the Department of Health Pregnancy Book that pregnant women should avoid alcohol or drink no more than one to two units once or twice a week.

Now the BMA Scotland say that there is a proven risk that especially heavy drinking by pregnant women can cause disorders such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).

Evidence is still being collated on the effects of even low alcohol consumption during pregnancy and FASD.

FASD can lead to life-ling learning difficulties, physical disabilities and behavioural problems, severely impacting on the life of the child and their family.

Dr Brian Keighley, Chairman of the BMA in Scotland said: “We need to raise awareness of the emerging evidence on FASD among healthcare professionals so that children are diagnosed quickly and get the help they need. The lack of awareness and research in the UK on this subject, together with the complexity of the syndrome itself is leading to delays in diagnosis and referral.

“Healthcare professionals also need to get the message across to expectant mothers that consuming alcohol can cause irreversible harm to their unborn child. It’s about giving people the right information so that they can act responsibly – and save children from completely preventable life-long disabilities.”