Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy: Risks and Concerns

Question
Hi Dr. Chasse,
A friend of mine is around 20 weeks pregnant. We went on a weekend trip with her and her husband this past weekend with several other people. Over the weekend, we all observed her have 2 glasses of wine and a beer on Friday and another 2 glasses of wine on Sat. While this disturbs us, we weren't sure what to do or whether or not it's our place to say anything. She has been reading several books on pregnancy and I know she is aware of the concerns but somehow it seems she justifies it to herself that it is ok or convinces herself that she really isn't having that much. I've been under the impression that drinking no more than 1 glass of wine on a very rare occasion is ok but this seems excessive. Should we be worried or are we overreacting? What are the direct consequences so that maybe I can help convey the risks to her? She has always been a wine drinker and connoisseur and this is not the first time we have witnessed it during her pregnancy. I've seen her drink a glass of wine on 3 separate occasions and not always with dinner. Once when she was only 10 weeks. Any guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.  

Answer
Dottie,
You are right to be concerned for your friend. Although some experts will still say a glass of wine a day is okay (especially in Europe) most studies show that Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can be caused by even a small amount of alcohol. Since she was a wine drinker before, the alcohol will affect her in a different way than someone who doesn't drink. Womens bodies regularly are effected differently the same substance. There is no "magic number" on the amount of alcohol one can consume- so the best way is not to gamble at all.
The baby's brain is trying to develop, and alcohol in the bloodsteam goes through the placenta to the baby, affecting and possibly stunting that brain development. She may think differently if she realizes her tiny baby is is consuming alcohol. It's just like a baby having a beer. Sometimes that image helps moms stop. Also, babies who are born to moms that drink during pregnancy tend to have problems with cognitive ability, intelligence, and attention. They are also often born premature and/or low birth weight. You can't force these issues upon your friend, but as a friend, I hope she appreciates your thoughts. Thanks for being so concerned. It is justified.
-Jill Chasse