Risks and guidelines for the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy

Table 1 Potential advantages and disadvantages of recommending abstinence vs a more condoning approach

	Abstinence	Condoning approach
Advantages	Simple message	Little evidence that a low intake is harmful
	No alcohol = no alcohol induced adverse effects
	Safest choice considering potential uncertainties related to interpretation of the scientific evidence
Disadvantages	Little evidence that a low intake is harmful	Complex message
	May cause guilt in women who have been drinking a few drinks, especially in early pregnancy	To regard recommendations as guidance rather than an absolute limit may increase alcohol consumption among pregnant women
	What are health professionals going to tell women who have been drinking a few drinks, especially in early pregnancy?	May be regarded as guidance rather than an absolute limit
	Disagreements between health authorities and health professionals may lead to confusion and worry among pregnant women	Alcoholics may have difficulties stopping after intake of only small amounts