PS-313An Inquiry Into Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy In The Netherlands (2007-2010)

• Published in: Archives of disease in childhood Vol. 99; no. Suppl 2; p. A224
• Main Authors: Lanting, C I, van Dommelen, P, van der Pal-de Bruin, KM, Bennebroek Gravenhorst, J, van Wouwe, JP
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01-10-2014
• ISSN: 0003-9888
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2014-307384.611

Background and aimsAlcohol consumption during pregnancy is associated with several adverse outcomes for the developing child, of which fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most well-known. In The Netherlands it is recommended not to drink any alcohol while pregnant. Our objective was to describe the prevalence and pattern of alcohol consumption during pregnancy in the Netherlands.MethodsIn 2007 and 2010 we undertook two nation-wide surveys amongst mothers who brought their infant aged less than or equal to 6 months to a well-baby clinic. Survey-data were weighted for educational attainments to represent national figures.ResultsIn 2007 data were obtained from 2768 and in 2010 from 1448 women. Between 2007 and 2010, the frequency of drinking did not increase, but the amount per occasion did. Overall, 21% of women reported that they had drunk alcohol during pregnancy. Of women who drank alcohol during the first 3 months, 25% reported 1-3 drinking occasions per month; 7% reported weekly intake, and 0.5% reported daily intake of alcohol. Binge drinking ( greater than or equal to 6 drinks/occasion) while pregnant was reported by 8%. In 2007, 53% had <1, 40% had 1-3, and 7% had greater than or equal to 3 drinks/occasion. In 2010 this was respectively 4%, 83%, and 13%. As compared to the first three months, in the last six months of pregnancy alcohol intake was somewhat less.Alcohol consumption in pregnancy was more prevalent amongst older ( greater than or equal to 35 years of age), higher educated women, and amongst women who reported that they had smoked tobacco products while pregnant (adj. OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.51-2.73).ConclusionsDespite current recommendations, in 2007 and 2010, 21% of Dutch women drank alcohol while pregnant.