The impact of pre- and postnatal alcohol exposure on maternal and child health outcomes

This narrative review highlights the rising use of alcohol among women and discusses its biological, psychological and sociological harms. Women have greater health risks associated with alcohol consumption in comparison to men. The risk extends to the development of intrauterine and foetal health when the woman is pregnant. Foetal alcohol spectrum disorders can occur when alcohol is consumed during pregnancy. For a healthy foetus to grow, the intrauterine environment needs to be of optimum health and this can be stunted by a lack of essential nutrients, which can be hindered by alcohol use. Some of the physical deformities associated with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder are more commonly recognised by health professionals, but more needs to be done to allow for greater confidence in recognising and diagnosing the condition. The psychological and sociological harms associated with consuming alcohol in pregnancy and beyond also have a detrimental effect on the developing child.