Accounts of women identified as drinking at ‘high risk’ during pregnancy

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is associated with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), and women who drink at higher levels are more likely to have a baby with FASD. 

Efforts to better understand and respond to ‘high risk’ drinking during pregnancy have been largely ignored therefore this research aims to better understand the different ways this issue is addressed in policy and practice.

Highlights

• Experiences of ‘high-risk’ drinking were affected by social norms and relationships.
• Poverty, homelessness and marginalisation were key concerns for many participants.
• Treatment/support for women drinkers was not explored in detail in included studies.
• Research including perspectives of women who drink at ‘high risk’ levels is required.