Identifying and treating pregnant patients at risk from alcohol
Rosett, H.L.; Weiner, L.
Canadian Medical Association Journal 125(2): 149-154
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-4409 PMID: 7272865 Document Number: 168663
Heavy alcohol intake during pregnancy has been associated with retardation of foetal growth and abnormal foetal development. Pregnant women whose infants are at risk because of alcohol abuse can be identified and counselled by health professionals providing prenatal care. Infants born to women who had been drinking heavily and subsequently abstained from or reduced their intake of alcohol before the third trimester showed improvement in growth and in regulation of sleep-awake state. The existing health care delivery system can be modified in a cost-effective manner to treat pregnant women who are problem drinkers. Physicians' attitudes and behaviour are critical for the success of this strategy.