Drinking alcohol anytime during pregnancy can harm the baby. Alcohol passes through the placenta to the growing fetus. A fetus’ liver isn’t as developed as an adult’s, so it can’t break down the alcohol as fast. This means that a fetus’ developing organs are exposed to the effects of alcohol for longer.
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). FASD can cause birth defects, brain damage and learning difficulties for the baby.