A message to pregnant women Thirty-two years ago, United States researchers first recognized fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). FAS is characterized by growth deficiencies (or, decreased growth), abnormal facial featu res (specific facial featu res), and central nervous system (or, brain) abnormalities. FAS falls under the spectrum of adverse outcomes caused by prenatal alcohol exposure called Feta! Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASO). The discovery of FAS led to considerable public education and awareness initiatives informing women to limit the amount of alcohol they consume while pregnant. But since that time, more has been learned about the effects of alcohol on a fetus. It is now clear that no amount of alcohol can be considered safe. I now wish to emphasize to prospective parents, healthcare practitioners, and all childbearing-aged women, especially those who are pregnant, the importance of not drinking alcohol if a woman is pregnant or considering becoming pregnant. Based on the cu rrent, best science available we now know the following: Alcohol consumed during pregnancy increases the risk of alcohol related birth defects, including growth deficiencies, facial abnormalities, central nervous system impairment, behavioral disorders, and impaired intellectual development. No amount of alcohol consumption can be considered safe during pregnancy. Alcohol can damage a fetus at any stage of pregnancy. Damage can occur in the earliest weeks of pregnancy, even before a woman knows that she is pregnant. The cognitive deficits and behavioral problems resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure are lifelong. Alcohol-related birth defects are completely preventable. For these Reasons: 1 . A pregnant woman should not drink alcohol during pregnancy. 2. A pregnant woman who has already consumed alcohol during her pregnancy should stop in order to minimize further risk. 3. A woman who is considering becoming pregnant should abstain from alcohol. 4. Recognizing that nearly half of all births in the United States are unplanned, women of childbearing age should consult their physician and take steps to reduce the possibility of prenatal alcohol exposure. 5. Health professionals should inquire routinely about alcohol consumption by women of childbearing age, inform them of the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, and advise them not to drink alcoholic beverages during pregnancy. U.S. Surgeon General, Vice Admiral Richard H. Carmona, MD, MPH, FACS Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy (CBH) Some clinical studies have shown that 80% o f people find CBH more e ective than CB Specialising in stress management, anxiety and related issues and depression. Also experienced in helping with the treatment of IBS, high blood pressure, pain management, fertility issues and weight management. 1 0 years experience. Occupational Therapy Health and Wellbeing Coaching Working with people to maximise independence, achieve an optimum level offunctioning in daily living and identifying risk areas, making recommendations to manage potential risks. Specialising in working with people with long term illness, older people and those potentially suffering with memory problems and Dementia. Claire Dowling BSC Hons Occupational Therapy, MBAOT, HCPC. NHS qualified Head Occupational Therapist, a member of the Health Professionals Council and The British Association of Occupational Therapist with 1 4 years experience and enhanced DBS. Hypno-birthing preparation can be taught individually or in groups. V W Q y C r R O Y Y w Lucy Stratford BA Hons, D.CBH, D.Hyp, MBSCH Tel: 07774 626293 Email: stratfordhypnotherapy@hotmail.co.uk =-· __ , . §m l I Tel: 07985 305294 / 01234 959028 Reiki/Metatronia Therapy and Chakra balancing Powerful energy healing promoting deep relaxation and well being. May benefit, Back. neck and shoulder problems, migraine, joint pain, stress and tension, anxiety and depression Lindsey Wolstencroft Te l : 0 7 9 5 6 8 2 0 9 8 9 / 0 1 2 3 4 2 4 0 9 1 4 Email: lindsey@ravenmoonreiki.co.uk Email: clairedowling1 occupationaltherapist@gmail.com Remedial Massage Deep tissue massage to physically and mentally aid healing and relieve pain. Also experienced in infant massage, qualified infant massage trainer. 20years experience. Wendy Cox MTIGB, IAIM, MTI Tel: 07760 340998 Email: wendyecox44@gmail.com www.olneywellbeing.co.uk Phonebox Magazine 61