Author Description

This report investigates women who drink alcohol while pregnant, how much they drink, and how their drinking behaviours change as the pregnancy progresses. It uses data from Growing Up in New Zealand, a longitudinal survey which will follow over 6,800 children and their families. 6,822 expectant mothers were interviewed about their level of alcohol drinking before they were aware that they were pregnant, during the first trimester, after the first trimester, and the factors that influence the decision to drink or abstain from alcohol. The findings will help inform public health efforts to address the negative impacts that alcohol consumption during pregnancy has on children.