Medicine: Motherly Advice

Don't drink while pregnant

When they learn the stork is on the way, many couples celebrate with wine or champagne. In the future that tradition may be carried on by the father alone. The U.S. Surgeon General has now advised pregnant women, and those trying to become pregnant, to avoid all alcohol because of potential danger to the fetus.

The new caution extends earlier warnings on the hazards of heavy drinking during pregnancy. Studies have shown that 30% to 45% of infants born to women who drink upwards of 3 oz. of pure alcohol daily (the equivalent of six or more cocktails) have...

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