WE’RE PREGNANT

There are over 1.4 million Canadians with FASD. That’s more than the number of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy combined. The only cause of FASD is exposure to alcohol while in the womb. Alcohol exposure during pregnancy can also cause low birth weight, preterm births, miscarriages and stillbirths. The safest option for you and your baby is to avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

Stopping alcohol use at any time during pregnancy will help improve the health of your baby. If you have had alcohol during your pregnancy, talk about it with a trusted health care or service provider. If you think you may have a substance use issue, connect with your health care provider, counsellor, or support network.

There are many reasons a woman might drink alcohol during pregnancy, including:

• Not knowing they are pregnant
• Not knowing the dangers of alcohol use during pregnancy
• Using alcohol to cope with trauma or violence
• Substance use challenges

Partners, friends, and family members play a really important role in helping to reduce alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Go alcohol-free.

Major life changes and social disruptions may cause you to drink more alcohol. Avoid using alcohol and other substances to cope. Instead talk to friends, get active, eat well and try a new hobby to reduce your stress.

Alcohol can impact the health of your baby.

Go alcohol-free.