"Just a Little Bit."

There are a ridiculous amount of things that people say women should and should not do. There are hundreds of books and article on this topic but what most interests me is a quote from a TV show recently. One of the beloved pregnant cast members asks her doctor if it is ok to consume any alcohol, in which the doctor replied “Just a little bit.” So the question is, does a small portion of alcohol consumption also have an effect on the health of the baby?

    According to National Institution of Health and Clinical Excellence they recommend from findings in their study to never drink in the first three months of pregnancy (Matthews, 2008, p. 208). Beyond this however according to Matthews the judgment should be left to those carrying the child. So if the woman needed a relaxer and has not past her two units a week the author would say that it is ok for her to consume alcohol if she desires (2008). This is only one researchers opinion but coming from a college student I think it would be wise to not consume still. Because there is still no large yes or no large no, I think it would be better to play is safe rather than leave it up to chance. If someone does not know one way or the other is it wiser to choose the side that is told to have more of a negative effect? I would consider it reckless for someone to choose the side that is said to have more of a negative effect. I would go as far to say to no consume during or before the pregnancy until this research is completely conclusive. For the sake not only the mother, but of the child skip out on the bars for 10 months.

Abstract

Matthews, C. V. “Alcohol in Pregnancy: What is a Safe Amount?” British Journal of Midwifery. 16:4    (2008): 208. Print.