Most of us have heard that drinking during pregnancy is discouraged. However, some women might still think that they can safely indulge in moderation.

Red wine, in particular, is often touted as having health benefits, such as antioxidant properties and improving heart health. It’s no wonder that some expectant mothers might think that a glass of red wine now and then won’t hurt, especially if they are celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind after a long day.

Unfortunately, the truth is that drinking red wine during pregnancy can be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus. Here are some of the hidden dangers expectant mothers need to know:.

1. Red Wine Can Increase the Risk of Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Premature Birth

Studies have shown that even low to moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature birth.

This is because alcohol can damage the developing fetus’s organs, especially the brain and central nervous system. These organs are still developing during pregnancy and are more vulnerable to damage.

Even though red wine may have health benefits when consumed in moderation by non-pregnant adults, there is no safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that pregnant women should avoid alcohol altogether.

2. Red Wine Can Increase the Risk of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a serious and lifelong condition that affects children born to mothers who drank alcohol during pregnancy.

Children with FAS can have physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments, such as facial abnormalities, small head size, developmental delays, and learning disabilities.

There is no cure for FAS, and it can only be prevented by mothers avoiding alcohol during pregnancy. Even drinking small amounts of red wine during pregnancy can increase the risk of FAS.

3. Red Wine Can Affect the Baby’s Brain Development

Drinking red wine during pregnancy can also affect the baby’s brain development, which can lead to lifelong learning and behavioral problems.

Studies have found that alcohol can affect the formation and function of brain cells, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy when brain development is at its peak.

The effects of alcohol on the developing brain can range from mild to severe, depending on the level and timing of exposure. Even occasional drinking of red wine during pregnancy can have negative effects on the baby’s brain development.

4. Red Wine Can Affect the Mother’s Health During Pregnancy

Drinking red wine during pregnancy can also affect the mother’s health. Alcohol can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus.

Additionally, drinking red wine during pregnancy can interfere with the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, which are critical for fetal development.

Pregnant women need to ensure that they are getting enough nutrients for their own health and the health of their developing child.

5. Red Wine Can Affect Breastfeeding

Drinking red wine during pregnancy can also affect breastfeeding. Alcohol passes through breast milk and can affect the baby’s sleep, development, and growth.

Mothers who drink red wine during pregnancy may also have a harder time producing breast milk and may need to supplement with formula.

Even after the baby is born, mothers should still avoid drinking alcohol while breastfeeding. It is recommended that breastfeeding mothers wait at least 2 hours after a single drink of alcohol before breastfeeding.

Mothers who choose to drink alcohol should also plan ahead and have a supply of pumped milk or formula ready for their baby.

Conclusion

In conclusion, expectant mothers need to be aware of the hidden dangers of drinking red wine during pregnancy.

Even low to moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, fetal alcohol syndrome, and brain development problems. Drinking red wine during pregnancy can also affect the mother’s health and interfere with breastfeeding.

It’s important for expectant mothers to prioritize their own health and the health of their developing child. If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether.

If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, seek help from a healthcare professional.