Alcohol Consumption in Early Pregnancy: Risks and Concerns

Question
Hello,

My husband and I just started trying for our second child. I just finished the ovulatory phase and am expecting my period at the end of the month. We are supposed to attend a wedding this weekend and I know there will be numerous champagne toasts, etc. If a zygote has not attached itself yet to the uterine lining, is it still adversely affected by say, a glass of champagne or a cocktail? I hope this doesn't sound like a dumb or irresponsible question. It's just that I'm not ready to tell friends and relatives that we are trying for child #2 and I know it would look suspicious if I refuse all offers of celebratory libations. Would it be safe to have just one?

Thanks for your insight,
Jenny

P.S. Per your instructions, I am 35, I have one child (2.5 years) and the date of my last period was April 18).

Answer
I doubt that one toast will harm your pregnancy, if you have conceived on May 1. (You can be at most 11 days from conception). HOwever, we do not know how much alcohol is dangerous during pregnancy and, therefore, advise no alcohol at all during the pregnancy. In early pregnancy, one drink will not cause "fetal alcohol syndrome". However, if you can avoid it, try not to drink at all. I doubt that it will look suspicious if you have ginger ale or a soft drink.