Awareness campaign aims to stop pregnant women from drinking alcohol

Women's Interests Minister Robyn McSweeney has launched a new information poster urging women to avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

The poster conveyed a clear and simple message: 'Don't drink alcohol during pregnancy. To give your baby the best start in life, not drinking is the safest option.'

Mrs McSweeney said it was vital for women to think about their child's health and wellbeing before birth, when she launched the poster at Yokine Community Playgroup.

"Medical research has shown us that consuming alcohol during pregnancy can be detrimental to the health and development of your unborn baby, and may also present a health risk to the mother," she said.

"Abstaining from alcohol is the safe and responsible choice."

Yesterday was International Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Awareness Day. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome is a term that describes a range of birth defects and adverse outcomes which can be caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol.

"The syndrome varies in severity and not all instances of alcohol consumption result in the syndrome occurring," the Minister said.

"It is a fitting occasion to raise awareness of this issue with a targeted poster and a clear message for pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy."

Mrs McSweeney said the poster would be distributed to locations such as medical centres, children's health centres and playgroups.

"The Department for Communities is also working with the hotel and hospitality industry with a view to placing the poster in venues where alcohol is sold or consumed, and I hope the message will also be embraced by men, particularly partners and future dads," she said.

Copies of the poster may be obtained from the Department for Communities by calling (08) 6217 8700.