Pregnant women can drink a little alcohol – but not much, according to the latest advice, published yesterday.
Experts say women do best to avoid alcohol during pregnancy – because of continuing confusion about the evidence.
But after the first three months, they should certainly drink no more than two units twice a week, according to The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
The college says women should, preferably, avoid alcohol while they are trying to conceive and during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can adversely affect the development of the foetus.
This new advice is based on the lack of evidence for a "safe" level of drinking in pregnancy.
The new patient information states that small amounts of alcohol after the first trimester appear to be tolerable.
It is published today (11 February) by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), and also explains the help and support available for women who wish to reduce their drinking.
"For women planning a family, it is advisable not to drink during this time," says Philippa Marsden of the RCOG. "Either partner drinking heavily can make it more difficult to conceive.
"During early pregnancy, the safest approach is to abstain from alcohol and after the first trimester keep within the recommended amounts if you do decide to have an alcohol drink. The same applies for women who decide to breastfeed.
"If you cut down or stop drinking at any point during pregnancy, it can make a difference to your baby. However, in some instances, once the damage has been done, it cannot be reversed. If you have any questions or concerns about alcohol consumption talk to your midwife, GP or health visitor who can offer support and advice."
The advice states that, after the first trimester, pregnant women can safely drink no more than one to two units, once or twice a week.
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