WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., FEB. 8, 2008 – Responding to the ABC-TV “Good Morning America Weekend” segment (Sat., Feb. 2), which posed the question, “Can pregnant women drink alcohol in moderation?” the March of Dimes reiterates its longstanding answer: No.
The March of Dimes warns pregnant women and those trying to conceive not to consume any alcohol at all, in order to avoid serious physical and mental birth defects in their babies.
Alan R. Fleischman, M.D., senior vice president and medical director of the March of Dimes, says the organization is concerned that this TV segment gave mixed messages to women. “According to our professional partner, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, patients who saw the show are asking their OB-GYNS for clarification about whether moderate -- or even light – alcohol consumption will impact the health of their baby. That's why we're repeating the message: There is no safe level of alcohol use during pregnancy or when you're trying to have a baby. The best advice is to abstain completely during these times.”
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a number of birth defects, ranging from mild to severe. These include mental retardation; learning, emotional and behavioral problems; and defects involving the heart, face, and other organs.
For more of what you need to know about the harmful effects of drinking during pregnancy, visit:
marchofdimes.com/pnhec/159_530.asp.
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies
SM, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies. For the latest resources and information, visit
marchofdimes.com or
nacersano.org.
