Alcohol Consumption for Pregnant Women

Last week, you probably heard the news about the release of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) new report on guidelines for alcohol consumption. The CCSA wanted to bring the existing Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines in line with the latest evidence on alcohol consumption health and safety risks.

We were pleased to see within the report there are new guidelines that recommend people who are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding avoid drinking alcohol entirely, even in small amounts.

Did you know that more than one million Canadians could have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?

And that, many people with FASD are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with disorders such as Autism and ADHD. The damage can occur during any stage of pregnancy. When a developing baby is exposed to alcohol, the resulting damage to the brain and body is permanent and may lead to life-long impairments and disabilities.

At ABLE2, we lead the Fetal Alcohol Resource Program (FARP), which offers support for individuals of all ages affected by this permanent physical neurodevelopmental disorder. Through education and community leadership development the program draws together resources, skills and knowledge that exists in Ottawa and provides clinical support and community navigation for individuals with FASD and their families.

To learn more about the FARP program and other services available please visit our website

If you know of someone that may benefit from this type of support, please contact us at 613-761-9522.

Published by

Heather Lacey

Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director

Read Heather’s other articles here