Alcohol Use Among Pregnant Women and Recent Mothers

Prenatal alcohol exposure increases the risk of birth defects, including physical, cognitive, and behavioral disorders. Research also shows a link between alcohol use during pregnancy and increased risk of preterm birth. In 2005-2006, an estimated 11.8 percent of pregnant women aged 15 to 44 reported using alcohol in the past month.

A recent paper based on data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that illicit drug, alcohol, and cigarette use was lower among pregnant women, particularly during their second and third trimesters, than among their parenting or nonpregnant counterparts. The study also found indirect evidence of resumption of substance use after pregnancy.

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