How much proven, peer-reviewed, scientifically sound research has been conducted!


Question:

How much proven, peer-reviewed, scientifically sound research has been conducted on pregnant women...?

who have had the occasional beer (say, once a month) and whose infant still suffered from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)? Why is it that, in my mother's generation for instance, women continued smoking and drinking during pregnancy (though in more limited amounts) and there appears to be no research or evidence to suggest that FAS, or any other drug-related health problems, was more frequent in the children of these women? Furthermore, why is it that women are told that NO amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy, yet may at the same time be prescribed, say, 60 mg of Paxil (paroxetine) per day to fight off their depression? Or anti-seizure medication, like clonazepam? I ask because it seems there is a strange double-standard when it comes to pharmaceuticals and alcohol in very small amounts.

Additional Details

4 weeks ago
I'm actually trying to relieve my conscience because I had a beer last night and feel particularly stupid for doing so, because I didn't think it was a problem. But now, I'm not so sure. And am freaking myself out.


Answers:

Don't beat yourself up. That isn't going to help anything.

Every person metabolizes alcohol differently, so there is no way of knowing what a safe level of consumption would be. Since it is impossible to identify a safe dose, they advise abstinence. It is a way for them to cover their butts.

I do agree that there is a bit of a double standard when it comes to drugs and alcohol during pregnancy. There is a difference, though. Most doctors only advise drugs if they are medically necessary while pregnant. Alcohol is never necessary.




The consumer health information on answer-health.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.
The answer content post by the user, if contains the copyright content please contact us, we will immediately remove it.
Copyright © 2007-2011 answer-health.com -   Terms of Use -   Contact us

Health Categories