It is recommended that both men and women avoid drinking alcohol while trying to get pregnant.

Alcohol can affect fertility by impacting sperm and egg quality. It also increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and can affect brain development, contributing to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). While historically considered to be only the mother’s responsibility, emerging research indicates that paternal alcohol consumption during the preconception period can influence the risk of spontaneous abortion and infant health. Partners also play a significant role in maternal health behaviours – women are more likely to continue drinking during pregnancy if their partner drinks.

As most people are unaware of the exact moment they become pregnant, it is recommended that alcohol consumption stops as soon as someone begins trying for a baby. This recommendation applies for both the person carrying the pregnancy and their partner.

It is never too late to stop drinking alcohol. Encourage patients or consumers to remain alcohol-free for the remainder of their pregnancy, which helps prevent any further increase in risk to the developing baby.