Planning a pregnancy? Experts say skip alcohol entirely

A recent article in Helsingin Sanomat discussed the "trimester zero" phenomenon, where women prepare their bodies and lifestyles for pregnancy. While opinions on this trend may vary, it has highlighted a crucial point: abstaining from alcohol when planning a pregnancy.

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When you are planning a pregnancy, you should leave alcohol out entirely.

Current research indicates there is no safe threshold for alcohol consumption during pregnancy, even in the earliest stages when a woman might not yet know she is pregnant. The initial weeks are critical for fetal development. Therefore, experts emphasize the importance of eliminating alcohol when conception is planned.

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There is no known safe limit for alcohol consumption during pregnancy, not even when you don't yet know you are pregnant.

This advice contrasts with a statement from an interviewed doctor, who suggested it's wise to avoid drinking around the time a pregnancy test might turn positive. However, the consensus among experts like Mira Vihmo and Sari Somer from the Kehitysvammaliitto is that even small amounts of alcohol can impact fetal development. Such consumption can result in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), leading to lifelong difficulties with learning, behavior, and self-regulation.

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Alcohol can cause FASD damage to the child, which in turn results in lifelong challenges with learning, behavior, and self-regulation for the person.