Complete abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy is recommended because:

• A. There is no known safe level; alcohol can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and growth impairment.
• B. A small amount is safe during the second trimester.
• C. Alcohol can affect the fetus only in the third trimester.
• D. Moderate drinking reduces miscarriage risk.

Answer: (A)

Alcohol exposure during pregnancy can harm fetal development; there is no known safe amount. Alcohol crosses the placenta and the fetus cannot metabolize it as effectively as the mother, so fetal blood alcohol levels can rise with any maternal intake. This exposure can disrupt development at any stage and lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, including growth impairment and neurodevelopmental problems that can persist after birth. Because no safe threshold has been established, complete abstinence is recommended to minimize risk. The other options aren’t supported because harm can occur across all trimesters, there isn’t evidence that a small amount in the second trimester is safe, and there is no benefit to drinking with regard to miscarriage risk.