University of Sydney Study Shows Impact on Brain Development
Medical Xpress recently published information from a University of Sydney study that shows even low-levels of alcohol use during pregnancy may be harmful. According to the research, alcohol use during pregnancy may affect a child’s brain development putting the child at greater risk for “psychological and behavioral problems.”
The article notes that even small amounts of alcohol use during pregnancy may lead to problems with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Being withdrawn
- Poor attention
- Being impulsive
The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, focused on whether there is a “safe level of consumption” during pregnancy. In the study, “one to two drinks per occasion with maximum six drinks” was considered low level alcohol use. Researchers concluded that even this low level of alcohol consumption can impact development.
In the past, focus had been on how large amounts of alcohol consumption could impact fetal development. This large study shows that even small amounts of alcohol use during pregnancy can impact the psychological and emotional well-being of a child.
The data also showed that many drinks were consumed during the early weeks of pregnancy, prior to when many women know they are even pregnant. The most alcohol that was consumed, the greater the health problems.
As noted in the article, the best option for expectant mothers or women trying to get pregnant is sobriety. This new research indicates that any amount of alcohol may be dangerous for your unborn child. If you are struggling with alcohol dependence or addiction, there are treatment options that can help. It is important to seek treatment as early as possible, particularly if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.