For Health Professionals

Alcohol

Key things to know

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.

The role of GPs in supporting preconception health

Resources

Access these resources to support conversations:

FASD Infographic
Information you might not know about pregnancy and alcohol
What you need to know about the risks of alcohol and pregnancy
Strong-Born – rural or remote community booklet supports communities to yarn about alcohol, pregnancy and FASD
Posters that can be printed for use in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations or other health clinics.
Call the Alcohol and Drug Clinical Advisory Service on 1800 290 928 for clinical advice on the management of patients with alcohol and other drug concerns.

Free, or low cost supports for an alcohol-free preconception period:

Alcohol and Drug Support – Free call 24/7; 1800 177 833. The website has information and an option to chat with a counsellor online.
I am sober – sobriety tracking and support that can help people recover from addictions to alcohol or other substances. These tools can also support reductions in smoking, vaping, caffeine, or other behaviours that may be addictive.
National Alcohol and other drug hotline – confidential advice and support.
Daybreak – An app to help a person quit or change their relationship with alcohol by helping track drinks, set goals and change habits. Includes peer support.
Dib – Your Drug Info Bot – a friendly knowledgeable chatbot for consumers to talk to via message for anonymous, non-judgemental and trustworthy information about alcohol and other drugs.
Smart Recovery Australia – Find weekly, free and facilitated online or in-person support meetings for addictive behaviours such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, cigarettes and more.