Embargoed until 00.01 Wednesday, 6th July 2011 
 
Commenting on the new research on pregnancy and drinking published today (Wednesday, 6th July 2011) in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gail Johnson, education and professional development advisor at the Royal College of Midwives, said: “This research is interesting, but it is important to recognise that the study has only looked at birth weight and the size for a (fetus)’ gestational age, the RCM urges caution in interpreting the research  and that its findings  do not send out the wrong messages about pregnancy and alcohol consumption to pregnant women.”

“There is still no evidence to suggest what a ’safe’ consumption limit of alcohol in pregnancy is and there is the potential for further confusion when the amount of alcohol a pregnant woman consumes depends on the size of the glass and the strength of the alcohol she  drinks. Other critical variables are her BMI and how often she consumes alcohol. We know that a build up of alcohol consumption can damage the unborn child.

“Women should avoid alcohol in pregnancy and midwives should discuss the negative impact of alcohol consumption on both, the woman and her unborn child. The RCM position remains clear and unchanged: women should avoid alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The only way to remove the risks associated with alcohol in pregnancy is to avoid  alcohol consumption if you are pregnant or trying to conceive.”
For more information contact the RCM Press Office on 020 7312 3456, pressofficer@rcm.org.uk.

Notes to editors
The Royal College of Midwives is the voice of midwifery. We are the UK’s only trade union and professional organisation led by midwives for midwives. The vast majority of the midwifery profession are our members. The RCM promotes midwifery, quality maternity services and professional standards. We support and represent our members individually and collectively in all four UK countries.  We influence on behalf of our members and for the interests of the women and families for which they care.  For more information visit the RCM website at www.rcm.org.uk.